Supernanny as a super decent jobs generator
For instance Harford mentions a smoking permit that would require a doctor’s signature, which essentially signifies a job opportunity. Although I could discuss whether the smoking permit should instead of a doctors signature require an economist to approve it instead to attest to the need of reaching an equilibrium between the individual’s and the society’s utility functions, what most struck me was the job generating capacity a really proactive Supernanny could have, especially if he wants to take advantage of our current technological advances.
For instance using Skype Supernanny should make it obligatory to consult daily with an expert if the chosen tie really matches the shirt. Live on line checking on whether we are brushing our teeth correctly should also be able to generate some very decent and useful teeth brushing supervisors jobs. Now as we of course do not want to impose too much on the personal freedom of choice of people one could also auction out a certain number of permits that would allow to smoke, to wear unmatched ties and to sloppily brush your teeth.