Fostering of dependency by social institutions

Nature

The attitude which passes responsibility for decision-making to specialists, whether political, industrial, educational, technological or whatever, may increase the effectiveness of such decisions but also fosters a general sense among non-specialists of a lack of effectiveness and an inability to participate in social change. This leads to a feeling that 'the "government" should care for me', and thus personal responsibility is surrendered.

Claim

Economic and political forms tend to ethically emasculate society, thus creating dependency upon social institutions and a sense of impotence of action in dealing with these structures. Such a situation may arise when dealing with social welfare systems, banks, educational institutions, or with the medical profession. The specialist knowledge inherent in such structures nurtures an attitude of "we know best", and the individual experiences loss of control over the decisions that affect his life.