Systems are built to support the essential purposes of society and to ensure a level playing field. Yet there has been a growing decline in trust in justice—a troubling trend. Institutions play a critical role in shaping the economy, governance, and the overall health of society. Strengthening these institutions can foster human capital, drive economic growth, and improve social well-being. The Story of the Clan can help us envision what a justice default looks like and how to improve systems for greater effectiveness and trust.
The Story of the Clan
The Story of the Clan is a hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment that examines what happens when justice fails. In this scenario, bigotry, corruption, and toxic social networks erode the system’s functioning. With no safeguards or protections in place, justice defaults entirely. Reports of wrongdoing are ignored, even as more victims come forward. Higher ideals such as human rights, freedom of speech, and religious liberty are abandoned in favor of lower-order outcomes. Dehumanizing rumors, financial extortion, and systemic corruption are tolerated—justified by political, racial, religious, or social biases. Victims are left without recourse, seemingly by design.
(Remember this story is for exploring a philosophical idea. Take with a grain of salt. The ending of the learning story will be a positive one of positive community support and adaptation to a higher moral conscious.).
Room for Improvement
Stories like this highlight the need for improvement in our philosophical learning thought experiment. But improvement requires both willingness and desire, and when individuals or groups benefit from corruption, hate, or misconduct, they are unlikely to change course. This undermines not only the needs of society but also the work of the vast majority of honorable officials who serve with integrity and strive to help their communities thrive every day, day in and day out. They are our heroes and should be encouraged and supported.
Any system can improve. Neither the belief that a system can “do no wrong” nor that it is “always wrong” reflects reality. Real progress requires mature leadership—leaders who understand that rigid ideologies and one-sided approaches have done little good, often deepening polarization. It also gives wiggle room to corruption. What is needed are rational decision-makers who can distinguish right from wrong and uphold the true purpose of any system. Choosing wisely who we place in positions of authority is essential, as the long-term impact of those choices profound.
Looking Forward
It is useful to examine resources, such as polling or research groups, that investigate public trust. While one cannot speak to the credibility of every source, such perspectives help us consider whether improvements in institutional functioning might benefit both society and the economy. This requires a wide lens: examining insights from diverse backgrounds, community reports, and measurable impacts on society. Crime rates, for instance, remain a concern, and part of the problem may lie in how we think about and address these issues.
If we can build systems that are effective, honest, up to date, and community-oriented—while remaining true to our oaths and values—we will have accomplished something meaningful. Perhaps the impact socially and economically could create an upswing in societal engagement. The question remains: are we there yet? If we are that is fine but if we are not then how do we improve? Solving complex problems requires commitment to seeing the full problem and the full scope of potential solutions. Wait some time before coming to a conclusion.
Trust in Justice Project
*As a hypothetical, philosophical, theoretical thought experiment one can change around the pieces and come to any conclusion they so desire. The only goal is to take a minute and think about it. If you have done that at a deeper level, versus jumping to a ready made conclusion someone else offered, you did your part.
