Slippery Slope Framework
Small steps lead to big falls
The Slippery Slope Framework explains how a series of small, incremental decisions can lead to a significant and often undesirable outcome. The framework highlights the importance of considering the potential consequences of individual actions and the need for coordinated decision making.
- Small, incremental decisions can lead to significant and often undesirable outcomes.
- Individual actions can have a profound impact on the behavior of a system.
- Coordinated decision making is necessary to prevent undesirable outcomes.
- Identify the Potential for a Slippery SlopeIdentify situations where a series of small, incremental decisions could lead to a significant and often undesirable outcome.Pro tipLook for situations where individual actions can have a profound impact on the behavior of a system.WarningBe aware that the slippery slope can be difficult to recognize and prevent.
- Consider the Potential Consequences of Individual ActionsConsider the potential consequences of individual actions and how they may contribute to a slippery slope.Pro tipLook for ways to mitigate the potential consequences of individual actions.WarningBe aware that individual actions can have a profound impact on the behavior of a system.
- Implement Coordinated Decision MakingImplement coordinated decision making to prevent undesirable outcomes.Pro tipLook for ways to promote coordinated decision making, such as through the use of package deals.WarningBe aware that coordinated decision making can be challenging and may require significant resources.
The law firm implemented a series of small, incremental decisions that led to a significant and undesirable outcome, where no junior associates were promoted to partner.
Congress attempted to vote themselves a 50% pay raise, but the proposal was defeated due to public outcry and the incentives for individual members to vote against the raise.
The concept of the Slippery Slope was first introduced in the context of political decision making, where a series of small, incremental decisions can lead to a significant and often undesirable outcome.