[Cicero]

The cell phone example isn't a very good one, but there's some truth in it. I've had some experience with the tyranny of small-town government, and anyone who doubts that small-time officials can be tyrants should review the actions of school principals wielding zero-tolerance rules for the past few years, not to speak of social workers and children.

Nevertheless, the principle of subsidiarity is a good one. Things should be done at the lowest possible level, nearest the action, better informed, and with a shorter chain of command.

[Protagoras]

Nevertheless, the principle of subsidiarity is a good one. Things should be done at the lowest possible level, nearest the action, better informed, and with a shorter chain of command.

I agree but I think that the author was making the point that intrusive government isn't confined to far away government. In fact the closer it is the more personally intrusive it is likely to be by my observation.