Why are laws so long and complicated?

Americans often complain that our laws are too complicated, with many statutes running to dozens or even hundreds of pages of dense language. When the late Herman Cain was briefly the frontrunner for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, he drew sustained applause by vowing to veto any bill longer than three pages.

More serious political figures in both parties realize that complex issues – such as health care, taxes and national security – must be addressed in detail. ...