#31: Intentional Bureaucracy
Dealing with a long-winded bureaucratic process can be wildly frustrating and inefficient. But what if we told you it was designed to be that way? We don’t have actual proof, but some people have argued that the bureaucratic process of constructing new buildings was originally intended to give people plenty of time to think about it and voice their opinions.

As we all know, this drawn-out process is actually pretty frustrating. By the time citizens are able to voice their opinions or disapproval, the city’s construction plans are already approved and underway. Hearing a small group of constituents won’t change things, so it seems largely symbolic. What’s the point?