Why is a secondary effect worse than a primary effect?

A secondary effect is often considered worse than a primary effect because it can lead to unintended and potentially more severe consequences that ripple through a system. While primary effects are direct and typically anticipated, secondary effects can be complex, harder to predict, and may exacerbate existing problems. Additionally, secondary effects can create a cycle of negative outcomes, compounding the initial issue and making resolution more challenging. This interconnectedness makes secondary effects particularly damaging in systems like ecosystems, economies, or social structures.