Doesn't it seem crazy that someone with power can make a decision about you, your data, your stuff, your life, based on goals or desires that aren't yours?
I understand the argument that a government might make a decision that benefits you in a way that you couldn't do yourself. Like, you're not allowed to operate a car with no brakes because the risk to everyone else is too great. Making the decision to mandate working brakes in cars for everyone is not a power you have, but the government does, and even though the mandate limits you it's also in your interest because you don't want to die or have your own car damaged. So goes the argument.
But along with that, let's be honest about what having government power also gets you. It also gets you the ability to make decisions like the one the Japanese government is making. "We want certain economic benefits, and we believe you are instrumental in getting them, therefore this. You might indirectly benefit, but there's the real possibility you won't benefit at all. We're okay with that."
Posted by -lousyd