The Story

This isn't a novel with characters and a plot. Think of it as a brilliant, extended conversation. Faguet picks up where his earlier work, The Cult of Incompetence, left off. He argues that our society doesn't just tolerate incompetence—we sometimes actively prefer it. Why? Because true competence brings with it a heavy weight: responsibility. The book explores this 'horror of responsibilities,' the idea that we'd rather be mediocre and unaccountable than skilled and burdened with the consequences of our actions. He looks at this in politics, in bureaucracy, and even in everyday life.

Why You Should Read It

Reading Faguet feels like having a coffee with the smartest, most cynical friend you have. His observations from over a century ago are eerily familiar. When he talks about people choosing the easy wrong over the hard right, or institutions that reward avoiding blame instead of solving problems, you'll find yourself nodding. It's a book that gives you a language for frustrations you've probably felt but couldn't quite name. It's less about assigning blame and more about understanding a very human weakness.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who's ever been baffled by a pointless work rule, a political circus, or a system that seems designed to fail. If you enjoy sharp social commentary from writers like Orwell or are fascinated by the psychology behind why organizations go wrong, you'll find a kindred spirit in Faguet. It's a slim book with dense ideas, best read slowly. Don't expect easy answers, but do expect to have your perspective permanently shifted.