Punishment and reward proceed from basically the same psychological model, one that conceives of motivation as nothing more than the manipulation of behavior.

In outstanding classrooms, teachers do more listening than talking, and students do more talking than listening. Terrific teachers often have teeth marks on their tongues.

Very few things are as dangerous as a bunch of incentive-driven individuals trying to play it safe.

Independence is useful, but caring attitudes and behaviors shrivel up in a culture where each person is responsible only for himself.

Contrary to what you think, your company will be a lot more productive if you refuse to tolerate competition among your employees.

If unconditional love and genuine enthusiasm are present, praise isn't necessary. If they're absent, praise won't help.

Trying to do well and trying to beat others are two different things. Excellence and victory are conceptually distinct . . . and are experienced differently.