A closer look.
A measure can lose its connection to the goal it once tracked when people begin optimizing it. Incentives, gaming, and changes in behavior can all weaken the relationship.
Why it matters
A target should be evaluated alongside the underlying purpose it is meant to serve.
A useful lens. Not a universal law.
- Targets do not always fail. The effect depends on the design of the measure, the incentives, and how easily behavior can adapt.
Associated thinkers
Associated withCharles Goodhart ↗
Associations marked provisional are awaiting source review.
Further reading
A researched reading list is planned for this entry. The current field notes and thinker associations are provisional editorial content.