Power not only corrupts, it also motivates.

in antitrust •  4 years ago 

https://www.wsj.com/articles/breaking-up-facebook-11607644442

"This unprecedented after-the-fact antitrust review would set a new standard that could be used to break up any unpopular company. Government is creating the political risk that it can undo successful mergers, even those it approved, any time it wants. Don’t be surprised if the result is less venture investment for startups, less innovation—and less competition."

Give a bunch of bureaucrats the power and incentive to pursue a mission and they will do it with predictable passion regardless of whether the mission is ill-defined and doomed to be counterproductive.

They will pursue the mission regardless and be judged by how well they fulfill it, that is, by the extent of the costs they impose, rather than by any benefits (or lack thereof) that result. They are in the business of building their careers rather than benefitting consumers. The power to do this comes from the public's ignorance of economics and its resentment of success. They are told by the radicals that success in business comes at their expense. It is part of the agenda to reset the entire business environment of America, make no mistake. Elizabeth Warren must be rejoicing.

As this editorial suggests, however, the chances of the lawsuit being successful is low. In the meantime it will use both the taxpayer's and Facebook's money (and considerable company resources), both of which will be paid for by you and me.

Virtue signaling and the consumer be damned.

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