Campbell's Law

Campbell's Law states that when a measure is used as a target for evaluation, it often loses its effectiveness as an accurate indicator. In simpler terms, if we focus too much on a specific metric, people may manipulate their behavior to meet that target, potentially compromising the quality or integrity of what’s being measured. For example, if schools prioritize standardized test scores, they might teach to the test rather than fostering genuine understanding, ultimately diminishing true educational value. This law highlights the dangers of over-relying on particular metrics in decision-making and evaluation processes.