The Invisible Magic of Rules

Rules aren't actually designed to control you. They create patterns so strangers can

cooperate without knowing each other. When you drive, you trust that the person coming

toward you will stay in their lane. Not because they are good people,

but because the rule creates a shared expectation. That is the magic.

Rules serve hidden purposes. First, they reduce decision fatigue.

Rules give us shortcuts instead of negotiating everything. Second, they protect the

weak. Rules level the playing field by replacing physical power with agreed standards.

Third, they make innovation possible. Complex systems like airlines only work