This post is a response to the question “In the past have we given too much power to the 'experts'?” by @anniebburg.
How is an “expert” defined?
In Dr. Roger Koppl’s talk over Expert Failure, he defines an expert as someone who is paid for their opinion in a profession. For example, economists are considered experts because they are asked for their opinion on topics regarding the economy. Engineers who work for consulting firms are also considered experts since other companies pay them for their opinion and services on particular projects.
In the past, we most certainly have given too much power to experts. Unsupervised expert power has led to expensive damages to property and more importantly significant dangers to the well being of other people.
What are some past examples of too much power given to experts?
Continuing the topic of engineers, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse is an example of too much power being given to experts. The engineering experts believed that their bridge design was satisfactory for the project, however, the bridge collapsed approximately nine months following the opening of the bridge. Fortunately, no one was injured or died as a result of the bridge collapse. However, in this situation, the “expert” engineers were given too much power and did not have their design peer reviewed by another engineering firm.
Another past example of too much power being given to experts is the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Local government officials and experts ensured that the water was safe for consumption. It was later discovered that the water was, in fact, contaminated with dangerous toxins such as lead. Officials had not taken necessary steps such as applying corrosion inhibitors to ensure safe drinking water. The public’s trust in these experts led to thousands of children exposed to lead and will likely suffer long-term adverse health effects.