That's Not What We Meant to Do: Reform and Its Unintended Consequences in Twentieth-Century America

As we struggle with government reform, this is a must-read for all politicians. Gillon spells out in detail how unintended consequences come about. Guess what? We are in for more train wrecks courtesy of Washington due to a thing called subgovernments. If anything they have gotten stronger since this book was written a decade ago.

This is a useful book for anyone interested in government programs that affect society. Gillon gives us an evenhanded history of several such attempts. I'm not an expert about any of the areas, but I found nothing that I recalled differently, and nothing that smelled like distortion. Liberal politicians should read it to learn how far their results can be from their desires. Perhaps they can learn to be more careful. Conservative politicians should read it to realize how much worse things can get when anyone tries to manage society. Bureaucrats and regulators should read it to learn how far and how fast and how successfully they can use a law to do exactly the opposite of what the law says and advance their own power. This is interesting history. The cases call on you to do something. The author has an opinion, but the action to take, if any, is up to you.

This author really knows his legislative history - and how to make it readable to the novice. His tracing of a number of the "great reforms" - welfare, community based mental health care, equal oppotunity, etc. and where the best intentions of legislation actually took us is a real eye-opener. He also manages to be notably even-handed, although it is noticeable where his sympathies lie. Both my father and I (at opposite ends of the political spectrum) enjoyed it greatly.

This book should be required reading for all politicians (and would be politicians). A thoughtful, exceptionally well-written, and balanced look at how legislation often strays from original intent. A great read. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn about American government and politics.

This book offers an interesting and entertaining look at the unintended impacts of efforts to improve society through various programs and changes. If you interested in historical aspects of such attempted change in modern society, this book is a must read for you.