Freddie,

I think I figured out what has rubbed me wrong about Max's call to write policy. I think the entire purpose of the thoughtful blog is to wax theoretical--to opine, of course, but in a somewhat detached, philosophical manner. To write policy suggestions is to leave this theoretical world, where one can at least be useful in spurring on conversation, and enter into the realm of the concrete.

Not only that, but policy suggestions are essentially futile. Policy makers could care less. One has a better chance arguing moral or philosophical points than they do laying out a policy approach. It is time better spent, which is why after my response to Max I felt as though I hadn't really said much, or had somehow wasted my time, but couldn't quite understand why...