The Vision of the Anointed: Self-Congratulations as a Basis for Social Policy

The provided text consists of excerpts from Thomas Sowell's book, The Vision of the Anointed: Self-Congratulation as a Basis for Social Policy. Sowell critiques social policies, arguing that they are often based on the self-congratulatory assumptions of a small elite ("the anointed") rather than on empirical evidence or practical considerations. He contends that these policies frequently lead to unintended and negative consequences. The excerpts likely illustrate his arguments with specific examples of flawed social programs. The book's central theme is the dangers of policymaking driven by ideology rather than sound judgment.