Tullock's Spike
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
Economist Tullock proposed that instead of mandating expensive airbags, it would be better to install a sharp metal spike on the steering wheel of every car, pointing directly at the driver's heart. This way, no one would dare to drive fast, and the accident rate would drop to zero.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
An extreme extrapolation of risk transfer and compensation. This echoes the 'Peltzman Effect' (risk compensation). It reveals that safety often leads to recklessness. If the system's punishment for errors is not painful enough (e.g., unlimited undo buttons, nanny-style safeguards), users become careless. When designing high-risk systems, retaining a certain 'pain' or 'spike' can awaken the operator's awe.
Anchor fast decisions
Forced safety improvements induce risk compensation (Peltzman Effect): individuals become more reckless because they feel safer, so the total number of accidents may not decrease. Appropriately retaining 'pain/spikes' can instead awaken awe and reduce risk.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/4Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordon_Tullockverified
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