By Alfie Kohn
Published: 1999
Criticizes the system of motivating through reward, offering arguments for motivating people by working with them instead of doing things to them.
Alfie Kohn is an influential author and speaker known for his work in the fields of education, psychology, and parenting. He has written more than a dozen books, including "Punished by Rewards" and "The Schools Our Children Deserve," which challenge conventional approaches to motivation and learning. Kohn advocates for more progressive teaching methods that prioritize critical thinking, intrinsic motivation, and collaboration over standardized testing and competition. His writings have been featured in various publications, and he frequently speaks at conferences and workshops across the globe. With a deep commitment to fostering a more humane and equitable society, Kohn continues to inspire educators and parents to rethink traditional practices in education and parenting.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Nudge," behavioral economists Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein unveil the subtle art of influencing choices and shaping outcomes without restricting freedom. They explore how small, seemingly insignificant changes in the way options are presented can lead to drastically improved decisions in health, finance, and overall happiness. With compelling real-world examples and engaging insights, the authors demonstrate how understanding human psychology can empower individuals and policymakers alike. Dive into a world where choice architecture transforms lives and reshapes society's approach to welfare. Discover the hidden nudges that could change everything about the way we choose!
In 'I Will Teach You to Be Rich, Second Edition,' Ramit Sethi provides a no-nonsense guide to mastering personal finance with a blend of humor and practicality. He challenges conventional money advice and introduces readers to a unique banking system for maximizing their savings. Through straightforward strategies, Sethi reveals how to automate finances and invest wisely for the long term. Each chapter brims with actionable tips that encourage readers to take control of their financial futures. With insights that delve deep into psychology and behavior, this book is a game-changer for anyone seeking to build real wealth.
In "The Motivation Manifesto," Brendon Burchard unveils a powerful call to reclaim our personal freedom and unleash our fullest potential. Drawing on insights from psychology and personal development, he passionately argues that a life of meaning and purpose is within anyone's reach. Through a compelling mix of motivational wisdom and practical strategies, Burchard empowers readers to break free from fear and embrace their true desires. With each page, you'll find a challenge to shake off complacency and ignite the fire of ambition within you. Are you ready to transform your life and rewrite your destiny?
In 'The Courage to Be Disliked', renowned philosopher Ichiro Kishimi and psychologist Fumitake Koga present a transformative dialogue between a young man and a wise philosopher. They explore the concept of Alfred Adler's psychology, emphasizing that happiness is a choice and freedom comes from the courage to be oneself. The profound insights challenge conventional beliefs about identity, relationships, and the burden of past traumas. As they delve into the meaning of true self-acceptance, the narrative invites readers to confront their own insecurities and societal expectations. This engaging exchange sparks curiosity and inspires a new outlook on personal growth and fulfillment.
In 'Talking to Strangers', Malcolm Gladwell delves into the complexities of human interactions and the misunderstandings that often arise when we connect with those we don't know. Through compelling stories and case studies, he reveals how our assumptions about strangers can lead to misjudgments, including in critical situations. Gladwell uncovers the psychology behind trust, deception, and the often flawed perceptions we have of others. This thought-provoking exploration challenges readers to reconsider how they engage with unfamiliar people in their lives. Are we really as adept at reading strangers as we believe, or are we only fooling ourselves?
Dive into the art and science of typography with 'Designing with Type, 5th Edition'. This essential guide unravels the intricacies of typefaces, spacing, and layout, empowering designers to elevate their work. Through a rich blend of practical insights and illustrative examples, Craig and Scala reveal how type influences design perception. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, this book opens your eyes to the transformative power of typography. Discover how to shape your visual communication and captivate your audience with every word.
In 'The Social Animal', Joshua and Elliot Aronson explore the psychological and social forces shaping human behavior through rich anecdotes and groundbreaking research. The authors take readers on a journey through the intricacies of love, hate, and the powerful influence of social contexts on individual decisions. Juxtaposing captivating storytelling with scientific insights, they unravel the complexities of conformity, prejudice, and self-identity. This thought-provoking exploration challenges our understanding of what it means to be human in a social world. Prepare to question your beliefs and see the connections between psychology and everyday life like never before.
In 'Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)', Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson explore the psychological mechanisms of self-justification and the often-unconscious ways we avoid admitting our wrongs. With compelling examples from history, psychology, and personal anecdotes, the authors reveal why people, from individuals to large organizations, refuse to accept accountability. This thought-provoking book challenges readers to confront their own biases and the cognitive dissonance that influences decision-making. Will you choose to embrace the discomfort of acknowledging your mistakes? Dive into this enlightening read and discover the profound impact of accountability on personal growth and relationships.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

Alex Hormozi is a celebrated entrepreneur, author, and founder of Acquisition.com, a company dedicated to helping businesses scale efficiently. He gained prominence with his best-selling book "Gym Launch Secrets," which provides a blueprint for fitness entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Hormozi is also known for "The Million Dollar Offers" book, where he shares strategies on creating irresistible offers that drive sales. His work has significantly impacted the business community, providing practical insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs. Through his books and business ventures, Hormozi continues to inspire and guide countless individuals on their journey to success.

Iman Gadzhi is a renowned entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and author, best known for his influential work in the field of online business education. He founded IAG Media, a digital marketing agency that has helped numerous companies scale their online presence. Gadzhi is also the creator of the popular online course, "GrowYourAgency," which has educated thousands of aspiring digital marketers worldwide. His contributions to literature include insightful writings on entrepreneurship and self-improvement, with a focus on empowering individuals to achieve financial independence. Gadzhi's impact on the digital marketing landscape and dedication to teaching have solidified his reputation as a thought leader in the industry.

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.