Scott Alexander describes six fictional legal systems, each with unique and sometimes absurd approaches to justice and social order, exploring various legal and philosophical concepts in a creative and humorous manner. Longer summary

Scott Alexander presents six fictional legal systems in this creative writing piece. Each system is unique and explores different approaches to justice, punishment, and social order. The Clamzorians treat natural objects as legal entities, Pohjankaupunki uses mood-altering drugs as punishment, Sloviria punishes society for individual crimes, Nova-Nishistan's system is based on blackmail, Bogolia ensures equal legal representation, Sanzorre evolved into an insurance-dominated system, and Mirakoth relies on judges' subjective opinions without formal laws. The post humorously examines the potential consequences and quirks of each system, highlighting various philosophical and practical issues in legal theory and social organization. Shorter summary

Scott examines the possibility that bureaucracy sometimes serves as an intentional barrier to discourage unnecessary requests, particularly in healthcare, but questions how widely this concept applies. Longer summary

This post explores the idea that bureaucracy might sometimes serve as an active ingredient in plans rather than just being inefficient. Scott presents a hypothetical scenario where insurance companies use bureaucratic hurdles to discourage unnecessary use of expensive medications. He suggests that the time and effort required to navigate bureaucracy can act as a filter, separating those who truly need a service from those who don't. However, Scott expresses uncertainty about how widely this concept applies, noting that it doesn't explain bureaucracy in places like the DMV. He concludes that while this idea might explain some instances of bureaucracy, particularly in healthcare, it shouldn't be overgeneralized. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander proposes a hypothetical low-cost psychiatric practice to combat medical cost disease, exploring its potential and the barriers to its implementation. Longer summary

Scott Alexander explores the idea of creating a low-cost psychiatric practice called 'Cheap-O Psychiatry' to combat cost disease in medicine. He outlines a model that would significantly reduce overhead costs through telemedicine, self-booking, and direct payment, potentially offering appointments for as low as $35. The post discusses why such practices aren't more common, speculating on factors like the shortage of doctor-entrepreneurs, the dominance of insurance in the mid-range market, and the exhausting nature of rapid patient turnover. Scott suggests that such a venture might need to be done as a political protest to demonstrate the potential for cost reduction in healthcare. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander offers a detailed guide on navigating the inpatient mental health system, balancing caution with the importance of seeking necessary treatment. Longer summary

Scott Alexander provides a comprehensive guide on navigating the inpatient mental health system, covering topics from avoiding involuntary commitment to getting the best care possible when hospitalized. He discusses strategies for interacting with mental health professionals, understanding hospital procedures, and protecting one's rights. The post balances the need for caution with the importance of seeking necessary treatment, offering practical advice for patients and their loved ones. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander examines overpriced medical products like Lovaza and Deplin, arguing they serve a purpose in the medical system, but criticizes exorbitant BRCA gene testing prices as harmful. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses two examples of overpriced medical products: Lovaza (fish oil) and Deplin (folate), which are essentially the same as much cheaper supplements. He argues that these products serve a purpose by making these substances 'Official' in the medical system, allowing doctors to prescribe them without fear of liability. The post then examines the case of BRCA gene testing, where a company charges exorbitant prices for a service that could be much cheaper. Scott criticizes this practice, contrasting it with the FDA's ban on 23andMe offering BRCA testing, suggesting potential conflicts of interest. Shorter summary