[nickff]

I’ve observed this behavior, but never came up with such a succinct (perhaps pithy) way of describing it.

[Gormo]

How about "when your career depends on appearing to solve problems, fake ones are much easier than real ones".

[vkou]

> but never came up with such a succinct (perhaps pithy) way of describing it.

Here's one.

"Life is complicated, so is rule-making."

[nickff]

This is indeed pithy, but does not capture the contrast of the great-grandparent comment.