Five books. One shared purpose: to question how powerful systems work—and explore practical ways to make them fairer, more accountable and more sustainable.
Each book examines a different system that shapes everyday life—and asks what could change if public benefit came first.
A proposal to simplify the UK’s VAT system, reduce administrative burdens and tackle costly weaknesses. The proposal sets out a route intended to save around £2 billion a year, while inviting scrutiny of the evidence, implementation and trade-offs.
Technology can create extraordinary wealth and opportunity—but also deepen inequality, consume resources and place pressure on the natural world. This book asks how technological growth can be curbed and guided sustainably, so the planet and future generations can survive and thrive.
A case for leadership that listens before it acts. By taking citizens, professionals, communities and dissenting voices seriously, a Prime Minister can make better-informed decisions, strengthen public trust and govern with greater understanding.
A proposal to rebalance the relationship between police powers and the rights of people suspected or accused of crime. It asks whether safeguards, accountability and practical policing can be brought into a fairer balance.
An examination of the role of police accountability bodies and the difficult balance between funding complaints, scrutinising police conduct and ensuring public money is used effectively. The aim is to help authorities find a fair and proportionate balance in handling complaints and litigation.
Whether the subject is taxation, technology, government or policing, the underlying question is the same: how can institutions be designed to serve people better, use resources responsibly and remain accountable for their decisions?
Andrew Martin writes about public systems and the possibilities for reform. The Common Good Project brings together his proposals on taxation, technology, democratic leadership and police accountability under one clear idea: public institutions should work in the public interest.