Freedom depends on judgement

Freedom at work is appealing because rules can be clumsy.

But removing a rule does not remove the problem the rule was trying to manage. It transfers responsibility from the policy to the person’s judgement.

That works only when people understand the context and bear meaningful consequences for their choices. Otherwise, freedom becomes a slogan that responsible people subsidise for everyone else.

The strongest cultures do not choose between freedom and accountability. They increase both.

Fewer rules require clearer expectations, better information, and people who can be trusted when nobody is watching.