Chapter 1: When Ideas Have Sex

Summary:

In this chapter, Ridley argues that the key to human progress is the exchange of ideas. He
contends that when two individuals exchange ideas, they create something new that neither of
them could have thought of on their own. Ridley refers to this as the "sexual" nature of ideas, as
the exchange of ideas can be seen as analogous to sexual reproduction in biology.

Ridley further argues that this process of exchange and recombination of ideas has been going
on for thousands of years, and has been responsible for many of humanity's greatest
achievements. He cites numerous examples, from the development of agriculture to the
discovery of the laws of physics, to support his argument.

Overall, the chapter sets up the central argument of the book, which is that human progress is
driven by the exchange of ideas. It also introduces the metaphor of ideas having "sex," which
Ridley will use throughout the book to explain how innovation and progress happen.

Outline:

I. Introduction

Explanation of the central argument of the book

Importance of the exchange of ideas

II. The Sexual Nature of Ideas

Comparison to biological reproduction

Explanation of how the exchange of ideas creates something new

III. The History of Exchange

Examples of how exchange has led to progress throughout history

The role of specialization in the exchange of ideas

IV. The Future of Exchange

The potential for further innovation through the exchange of ideas

The importance of allowing ideas to flow freely across borders

V. Conclusion

Recap of the central argument

Introduction of the idea that the future is likely to be even more innovative than the past
Chapter 2: The Evolution of Exchange

Summary:

In Chapter 2, Ridley explores the importance of exchange in human prosperity. He argues that
exchange is the foundation of human progress, and that it has been happening for thousands of
years. Ridley contends that exchange has allowed humans to specialize, which has led to
greater productivity and efficiency. He also argues that exchange has facilitated the spread of
ideas and innovation, and has helped to create the complex societies we see today.

Outline:

I. The Nature of Exchange

The benefits of exchange, including specialization, productivity, and innovation

The role of trade in spreading ideas and goods
The emergence of markets as a mechanism for exchange

II. The Historical Evolution of Exchange

The development of long-distance trade routes and trade networks

The spread of agriculture and the emergence of farming communities
The role of religion and culture in facilitating exchange

III. The Economic Benefits of Exchange

The importance of comparative advantage in promoting specialization and efficiency

The role of competition in driving innovation and growth
The benefits of international trade and globalization

IV. The Social and Cultural Impact of Exchange

The spread of ideas and cultural exchange

The emergence of complex societies and institutions
The potential for exchange to promote peace and cooperation

V. The Future of Exchange

The potential for technology to further facilitate exchange

The challenges of globalization and inequality
The importance of promoting free and fair trade policies

Overall, Chapter 2 argues that exchange has been a crucial driver of human progress and
prosperity, and that it will continue to play a vital role in shaping our future.
Chapter 3: The Division of Labour

Summary:

In chapter 3 of "The Rational Optimist," Matt Ridley discusses the concept of the division of
labor and its role in driving human progress. He argues that specialization and the exchange of
goods and services have been the main drivers of economic growth and development
throughout history. Ridley explains how the division of labor allows individuals and societies to
become more efficient and productive by focusing on their comparative advantages. He also
shows how the division of labor leads to the creation of new jobs and industries, which in turn
drives innovation and economic growth.

Outline:

1. Introduction: The division of labor as a key driver of human progress.

2. The origins of the division of labor: How it arose in early human societies.
3. The benefits of specialization: How the division of labor leads to increased efficiency and
productivity.
4. The comparative advantage principle: How the division of labor allows individuals and
societies to focus on what they do best.
5. The creation of new jobs and industries: How specialization leads to the development of
new economic sectors and opportunities.
6. The limits of the division of labor: The potential downsides of specialization, such as job
displacement and economic inequality.
7. The role of the market: How markets facilitate the division of labor and allow individuals
and societies to benefit from specialization and exchange.
8. The importance of trust: How the division of labor relies on social and institutional trust.
9. Conclusion: The division of labor as a crucial component of human progress, and its
potential to continue driving economic growth and development in the future.
Chapter 4: The Innovation Exchange

Summary:

In chapter 4, "The Innovation Exchange," Matt Ridley discusses the importance of innovation in
human progress and argues that innovation is driven by the exchange of ideas. Ridley asserts
that innovation is not the result of individual genius or insight, but rather the product of a
collective process of trial and error. He emphasizes the importance of open and free exchange
of ideas, which enables innovations to spread and evolve, and argues that innovation is most
likely to occur in an environment that values experimentation and tolerates failure. Ridley also
examines the role of institutions such as universities and corporations in fostering innovation,
and discusses how the exchange of ideas has led to the development of everything from
agriculture to the internet.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The importance of innovation in human progress

II. The Collective Process of Innovation

Innovation is not the result of individual genius or insight

The importance of trial and error in innovation
The collective nature of innovation

III. The Exchange of Ideas

The role of the exchange of ideas in innovation

The importance of open and free exchange of ideas
How the exchange of ideas leads to the evolution of innovations

IV. The Value of Experimentation

The importance of experimentation in innovation

The value of tolerating failure

V. The Role of Institutions

The role of institutions in fostering innovation

The importance of universities and corporations in innovation

VI. Examples of Innovation

The development of agriculture

The development of the printing press
The development of the internet

VII. Conclusion

The ongoing importance of the exchange of ideas in innovation

The potential for future innovations to transform human society.
Chapter 5: The Triumph of Technology

Summary:

In chapter 5 of "The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves" titled "The Triumph of
Technology," Ridley argues that technological progress has been the primary driver of human
progress and prosperity. He contends that the development of new technologies has allowed
humans to become more efficient and productive, which has led to an increase in wealth and
well-being. Ridley provides several examples of how technology has improved human life,
including the development of agriculture, the printing press, and the steam engine. He also
argues that technological progress has not only increased our standard of living but has also
made it possible to support a larger and more diverse population.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The importance of technological progress in human history

II. The Evolution of Technology

The role of trial and error in technological progress

The influence of the scientific method on technological progress

III. The Benefits of Technology

Increased efficiency and productivity

Improved standard of living
Greater population and cultural diversity

IV. Examples of Technological Progress

The development of agriculture

The printing press
The steam engine

V. The Future of Technological Progress

The potential for new technologies to continue to improve human life

VI. Conclusion

The crucial role of technology in human progress and prosperity.

Chapter 6: A Bettering Exchange

Summary:

In Chapter 6 of "The Rational Optimist," Matt Ridley argues that the exchange of goods and
ideas has led to continuous improvement in human living standards. He points out that
innovation often occurs in response to the challenges posed by competition and trade, and that
this leads to a virtuous cycle of improvement.

Ridley illustrates his point by discussing the evolution of various technologies, such as the plow
and the printing press, which have contributed to human progress. He also examines the role of
specialization and the division of labor in increasing productivity, as well as the impact of
intellectual property rights on innovation.

Overall, Ridley contends that the exchange of ideas and goods is a driving force behind human
progress and that this exchange has led to continuous improvement in human well-being over
time.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The exchange of goods and ideas has led to continuous improvement in human living standards

II. Innovation and Competition

Innovation often occurs in response to the challenges posed by competition and trade
Technological advancements in agriculture, transportation, and communication

III. Specialization and the Division of Labor

The importance of specialization in increasing productivity and improving living standards

The impact of the division of labor on innovation and the spread of new ideas

IV. Intellectual Property and Innovation

The role of intellectual property rights in promoting innovation and creativity

The debate over the optimal length and scope of intellectual property protection

V. The Virtuous Cycle of Improvement

The exchange of goods and ideas creates a virtuous cycle of innovation and improvement
The ongoing evolution of technology and its impact on human well-being

VI. Conclusion

The exchange of ideas and goods is a driving force behind human progress and has led to
continuous improvement in human well-being over time.
Chapter 7: The Habits of an Effective Networker

Summary:

Chapter 7 of "The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves" by Matt Ridley discusses the
importance of networks and collaboration in driving human progress. Ridley argues that the
ability to collaborate and share ideas is essential for innovation and that it is often the most
successful networkers who achieve the most significant breakthroughs.

Ridley points out that successful networking requires certain habits, such as curiosity,
sociability, and the ability to listen actively. He argues that networkers must also be willing to
take risks and to share credit for their successes.

Ridley provides several examples of successful networkers, including Charles Darwin and
Thomas Edison, and argues that their ability to collaborate and share ideas was essential to
their success. He also discusses the role of institutions, such as universities and businesses, in
promoting collaboration and networking.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The importance of collaboration and networking in driving innovation

II. The Habits of Successful Networkers

Curiosity
Sociability
Active Listening
Willingness to take risks
Willingness to share credit

III. The Examples of Successful Networkers

Charles Darwin
Thomas Edison

IV. The Role of Institutions in Promoting Networking

Universities
Businesses

V. Conclusion

The importance of effective networking in driving human progress.

Chapter 8: The Propensity to Trade

Summary:

In this chapter, Ridley argues that the propensity to trade is a fundamental human trait that has
been a driving force behind human progress. He examines the evolutionary roots of trade,
looking at how humans evolved to be social animals who specialize in different tasks and
exchange goods and services with each other. Ridley also discusses the role of trust and
reputation in trade, and how these factors have allowed trade to flourish even between
strangers. Finally, Ridley examines the history of trade, looking at how it has shaped human
societies and helped to spread wealth and prosperity around the world.

Outline:

I. The evolutionary roots of trade

Humans are social animals who specialize in different tasks

The division of labor and trade allowed early humans to thrive
Humans are wired to seek out and trust strangers, which facilitates trade

II. Trust and reputation in trade

Trust and reputation are key factors in facilitating trade

The emergence of marketplaces and money helped to overcome barriers to trust

III. The history of trade

The history of trade can be divided into three eras: the prehistoric era, the agrarian era, and the
modern era
Trade has been a driving force behind the rise of civilization and the spread of wealth and
prosperity around the world
Trade has also been a source of conflict and competition throughout history

IV. Conclusion

The propensity to trade is a fundamental human trait that has been a driving force behind
human progress
Trade has allowed humans to specialize, innovate, and create wealth
Trade has also facilitated the spread of ideas, culture, and technology, leading to a more
interconnected world.
Chapter 9: The Paradox of Prosperity

Summary:

In this chapter, Matt Ridley discusses the paradox of prosperity, which refers to the idea that as
societies become more prosperous, they also become more concerned about environmental
and social issues. Ridley argues that this paradox is due to the fact that as people become
wealthier, they have more resources and time to devote to non-material concerns, such as the
environment and social justice. He also argues that the paradox of prosperity is a good thing
because it reflects a shift in values towards a more holistic view of well-being.

Outline:

I. Introduction

Definition of the paradox of prosperity

Importance of the paradox for understanding societal values and concerns

II. The Wealth-Environment Paradox

The relationship between wealth and concern for the environment

Evidence supporting the paradox

III. The Wealth-Social Justice Paradox

The relationship between wealth and concern for social justice

Evidence supporting the paradox

IV. The Benefits of the Paradox

The shift in values towards a more holistic view of well-being

The role of prosperity in fostering concern for the environment and social justice

V. Conclusion

The paradox of prosperity as a positive development for society

The need to balance economic growth with concern for the environment and social justice
Chapter 10: The Fitness of Nations

Summary:

In chapter 10, "The Fitness of Nations," Matt Ridley argues that the success of nations can be
attributed to their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and environments. He compares
nations to biological organisms, arguing that just as biological organisms evolve to become
better adapted to their environment, nations evolve to become better adapted to the economic
and social conditions they face. Ridley also argues that the diversity of ideas and institutions
within a nation is crucial to its ability to adapt and succeed.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The idea of the fitness of nations

II. Nation as Organism

Comparison of nations to biological organisms

Nations must adapt to changing circumstances to succeed

III. Diversity

Importance of diversity of ideas and institutions within a nation

Examples of successful and diverse nations

IV. Institutions

The importance of institutions in allowing nations to adapt and evolve

The role of property rights and the rule of law

V. Culture

The role of culture in shaping a nation's ability to adapt and evolve

The influence of cultural values on economic success

VI. Competition

The role of competition in driving innovation and adaptation

The benefits of economic openness and trade

VII. Conclusion

The importance of adaptation and diversity in the success of nations.

Chapter 11: The Causes of Growth

Summary:

In Chapter 11 of "The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves" by Matt Ridley, the author
explores the various factors that have contributed to economic growth throughout history. Ridley
argues that while growth has been driven by a combination of factors, including technological
progress, trade, and investment, the key driver of growth has been specialization. Specialization
allows individuals and societies to become more productive by focusing on what they do best
and trading with others to obtain what they need. Ridley also discusses the role of institutions,
such as property rights and the rule of law, in promoting growth by creating a stable and
predictable environment for economic activity.

Outline:

● Introduction: The author asserts that economic growth has been the key factor behind
human progress and discusses the various factors that have contributed to it.
● Specialization and Exchange: The author argues that specialization and exchange have
been the most important drivers of economic growth throughout history. Specialization
allows individuals and societies to become more productive by focusing on what they do
best, while exchange allows them to obtain goods and services they do not produce.
● Technological Progress: The author acknowledges that technological progress has been
an important factor in economic growth, but argues that it has only been possible
because of specialization and exchange.
● Institutions: The author discusses the role of institutions, such as property rights and the
rule of law, in promoting economic growth by creating a stable and predictable
environment for economic activity.
● The Importance of Culture: The author also argues that culture plays a role in promoting
economic growth by influencing attitudes towards innovation, risk-taking, and
entrepreneurship.
● The Future of Growth: The author concludes by discussing the prospects for future
economic growth, arguing that continued specialization and exchange, combined with
technological progress and institutional reform, will continue to drive growth and improve
human well-being.
Chapter 12: The Release of Brakes

Summary:

In this chapter, Matt Ridley argues that one of the main reasons for the explosion of innovation
and prosperity in the last few centuries has been the release of brakes that had previously been
holding back progress. Ridley identifies three key brakes: the Malthusian trap, political and
religious oppression, and protectionism. Ridley argues that each of these brakes was lifted at
different times and places, leading to a burst of innovation and prosperity.

Outline:

I. Introduction

The explosion of innovation and prosperity in the last few centuries

The role of brakes in holding back progress

II. The Malthusian Trap

The theory of Thomas Malthus

The impact of population growth on economic development
The role of technological progress in breaking the Malthusian trap

III. Political and Religious Oppression

The impact of authoritarian regimes on innovation and prosperity

Examples of oppressive regimes and their impact on progress
The role of political and religious freedom in fostering innovation

IV. Protectionism

The history of protectionism and its impact on trade and innovation

The role of free trade in fostering innovation and prosperity
Examples of protectionist policies and their impact on progress

V. The Release of Brakes

The lifting of each of these brakes at different times and places

The resulting bursts of innovation and prosperity
The continued need to release brakes in order to foster further progress

VI. Conclusion

The importance of understanding the role of brakes in hindering progress

The need to continue to release brakes in order to foster innovation and prosperity.
Chapter 13: The Politics of Growth

Summary:

Chapter 13: The Politics of Growth discusses the political obstacles that can hinder economic
growth, and how some societies have been able to overcome these obstacles.

The chapter argues that economic growth can be difficult to achieve in societies where political
power is centralized, as centralized governments may be more likely to create policies that favor
the interests of a small elite rather than the wider population. On the other hand, societies with
decentralized political power, such as those with a more competitive political system or those
with a tradition of individualism and self-governance, may be more conducive to economic
growth.

Ridley also argues that the growth of the welfare state, while well-intentioned, can also be a
hindrance to economic growth. He suggests that welfare policies can create disincentives for
individuals to work and innovate, and that they can lead to a culture of entitlement that
undermines economic progress.

In order to promote economic growth, Ridley suggests that societies should prioritize policies
that encourage competition, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He argues that a free market
system, combined with limited government intervention, can create the conditions necessary for
sustained economic growth.

Outline:

I. Introduction
A. The challenge of achieving sustained economic growth
B. The role of politics in hindering or promoting economic growth

II. The challenge of centralized political power

A. The potential for elites to capture political power and create policies that favor their interests
B. Examples of centralized political power hindering economic growth

III. Decentralized political power and economic growth

A. Examples of decentralized political power promoting economic growth
B. The importance of a competitive political system and individualism

IV. The welfare state and economic growth

A. The potential for welfare policies to create disincentives to work and innovate
B. The culture of entitlement and its effects on economic progress

V. Policies that promote economic growth

A. The importance of competition, innovation, and entrepreneurship
B. The benefits of a free market system with limited government intervention

VI. Conclusion
A. The need for societies to prioritize policies that promote economic growth
B. The potential benefits of sustained economic growth.
Chapter 14: The Fossil Fuels Dilemma

Summary:

In this chapter, Ridley discusses the dilemma posed by our dependence on fossil fuels. He
acknowledges that while fossil fuels have been a major contributor to human prosperity and
progress, they also have negative environmental consequences, particularly in terms of carbon
emissions and global warming. Ridley argues that while reducing carbon emissions is an
important goal, it is not a simple matter of abandoning fossil fuels in favor of alternative energy
sources. He contends that alternative energy sources are not yet efficient or reliable enough to
replace fossil fuels on a large scale, and that attempts to do so prematurely could have negative
economic consequences. Ridley also critiques some of the policies that have been proposed to
address the fossil fuels dilemma, such as carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems, arguing that
they are often ineffective and inefficient.

Outline:

Introduction
● The dilemma of our dependence on fossil fuels

The case for fossil fuels

● The historical role of fossil fuels in human progress and prosperity

The case against fossil fuels

● The negative environmental consequences of burning fossil fuels

The limits of alternative energy sources

● The challenges facing renewable energy sources and their limitations in replacing fossil
fuels

The economic consequences of abandoning fossil fuels prematurely

● The potential negative impact on the global economy of moving away from fossil fuels
too quickly

The problems with carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems

● The inefficiencies and potential negative consequences of policy proposals aimed at
reducing carbon emissions

The need for innovation

● The importance of continued innovation in developing more efficient and effective
alternative energy sources

Conclusion
● The complexity of the fossil fuels dilemma and the need for careful consideration of
policy solutions
Chapter 15: The Environment: The Good News

Summary:

In this chapter, Ridley presents a counter-narrative to the prevailing doom-and-gloom rhetoric

surrounding environmental issues. He argues that while environmental problems do exist and
must be addressed, there is reason to be optimistic about the future of the planet. Ridley
highlights the progress that has been made in recent decades in areas such as air and water
quality, biodiversity, and climate change, and argues that much of this progress has been driven
by human innovation and technological advancements. He also contends that many of the dire
predictions made by environmentalists in the past have not come to pass, and that humanity
has a track record of successfully adapting to changing environmental conditions. Ridley
concludes by emphasizing the importance of continued innovation and technological progress in
ensuring a sustainable future for the planet.

Outline:

● Introduction: The conventional wisdom on the environment is overwhelmingly negative.

● Air pollution: The air in many cities has become cleaner in recent decades, despite
increasing populations and economic growth.
● Water quality: Improvements in water treatment and pollution control have led to cleaner
and safer waterways in many parts of the world.
● Biodiversity: While many species have gone extinct in the past, there are also many
examples of successful conservation efforts and the recovery of endangered species.
● Climate change: While the potential impacts of climate change are real and should not
be ignored, many of the worst predictions have not come to pass, and technological
advancements offer hope for mitigating its effects.
● The power of innovation: Throughout history, humans have proven adept at solving
environmental challenges through innovation and technological progress.
● The importance of continued progress: To ensure a sustainable future for the planet, we
must continue to innovate and find new solutions to environmental challenges.
● Conclusion: The future of the environment is not predetermined, and there is reason to
be optimistic about our ability to solve the problems we face.
Chapter 16: The Long Descent

Summary:

Chapter 16 of "The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves" by Matt Ridley is titled "The
Long Descent." In this chapter, Ridley discusses the possibility of a decline in human prosperity
and the reasons why he believes it is unlikely to happen.

Ridley starts the chapter by acknowledging that many people believe that the world is on the
brink of a major disaster, such as an ecological collapse, an economic collapse, or a pandemic.
However, he argues that such a disaster is unlikely to happen because of the resilience of
human societies and the adaptability of human beings.

Ridley also discusses the concept of "peak oil" and argues that it is not a valid concern because
human innovation will allow us to find new sources of energy and to use existing sources more
efficiently. He also argues that the idea of "peak population" is similarly flawed because human
populations tend to level off and even decline as prosperity increases.

Overall, Ridley's message in this chapter is one of optimism and confidence in human ingenuity
and resilience. He argues that, despite the challenges that the world may face in the future,
human societies will continue to thrive and evolve.

Outline:

I. Introduction

Many people believe that the world is on the brink of a major disaster
However, Ridley believes that such a disaster is unlikely to happen

II. The Resilience of Human Societies

Human societies have survived and even thrived despite many challenges throughout history
The adaptability of human beings is a key factor in this resilience

III. Peak Oil

The idea of "peak oil" is flawed because human innovation will allow us to find new sources of
energy and to use existing sources more efficiently

IV. Peak Population

The idea of "peak population" is also flawed because human populations tend to level off and
even decline as prosperity increases

V. Conclusion

Despite the challenges that the world may face in the future, human societies will continue to
thrive and evolve thanks to our ingenuity and resilience.
Chapter 17: Unfinished Business

Summary:

In this final chapter, Ridley argues that there is still much work to be done in order to continue
the progress of human prosperity. He identifies several areas where he believes progress is
necessary, including improving education, reducing corruption, and reforming government.
Ridley also emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as
maintaining an open and free society that allows for the exchange of ideas and goods.

Outline:

● Introduction: Ridley argues that while humans have made great progress, there is still
much to be done to continue the trend of increasing prosperity.

● Education: Ridley discusses the importance of education in fostering innovation and

economic growth, and argues that improvements in education are necessary to continue
progress.

● Corruption: Ridley contends that corruption is a major barrier to progress, and that
efforts to reduce corruption are essential for continued prosperity.

● Government: Ridley argues that government plays an important role in promoting

economic growth, but that it must be reformed in order to be effective.

● Innovation and entrepreneurship: Ridley emphasizes the importance of fostering

innovation and entrepreneurship in order to continue progress, and discusses some of
the challenges that innovators and entrepreneurs face.

● The importance of openness: Ridley argues that maintaining an open and free society is
essential for continued progress, and that efforts to restrict the exchange of ideas and
goods are harmful.

● Conclusion: Ridley concludes the book by reiterating his argument that human prosperity
is likely to continue to increase in the future, as long as we continue to foster innovation
and maintain an open and free society. He encourages readers to remain optimistic
about the future and to continue working towards progress.
 Chapter Key Points and Important Messages

Ideas improve when they are exchanged; exchange leads to specialization and innovation;
1
innovation has been the key driver of human progress.

Exchange is a positive-sum game in which both parties benefit; the evolution of exchange has
2
led to more complex societies and economies.

The division of labor allows for greater productivity and efficiency; it is the key to the success
3
of modern economies.

The exchange of ideas is a major driver of innovation; innovation is driven by the desire to
4
improve our lives; innovation leads to further innovation.

Technology has been the key to human progress; technology improves over time through a
5
process of trial and error.

Prosperity is the result of a "bettering exchange," in which people trade in order to improve
6
their situation; the desire for improvement is a fundamental human characteristic.

Effective networking is essential for success in today's economy; successful networking

7
requires a combination of openness, diversity, and trust.

The propensity to trade is a fundamental human trait; it is driven by the desire to improve our
8
situation and is the key to economic growth.

Prosperity leads to longer, healthier, and happier lives; the paradox of prosperity is that it can
9
also lead to complacency and a loss of purpose.

The success of nations is determined by their ability to innovate and adapt; culture and
10
institutions play a key role in fostering innovation.

11 Economic growth is driven by technological innovation and the accumulation of capital;

 natural resources are not the key to prosperity.

The release of brakes, such as government regulation and barriers to trade, is essential for
12
economic growth; innovation is often hampered by government interference.

The politics of growth involve balancing the interests of different groups; successful growth
13
policies require a combination of openness and competition.

The use of fossil fuels has been a key driver of economic growth, but their use also has
14
negative environmental consequences; innovation is necessary to address these problems.

The environment is improving in many ways, including cleaner air and water, increased
15
biodiversity, and reforestation; humans have the capacity to solve environmental problems.

The long descent refers to the possibility of a decline in human prosperity; however, Ridley
16
argues that this is unlikely as long as we continue to innovate and adapt.

There is still much work to be done to continue the progress of human prosperity, including

17 improving education, reducing corruption, and reforming government; fostering innovation

and maintaining an open and free society are also essential.