If our goal is better outcomes, we should care not just about the overall intentions and spirit of policy; we should also care about how policies will be implemented, such as how outcomes will be measured, or whether a particular task is assigned to local, state, or federal government. Far more important than mere technicalities, these choices often determine whether a well-intended policy will succeed or fail.17 The devil, as they say, is in the details. Real voters, however, seem apathetic about practical details, and prefer instead to focus on values and ideals.
