By Heather Campbell >> Capuchin monkeys have a sense of fairness. This is apparent from research where a group of monkeys were given food in return for handing over a small granite rock. When certain monkeys received more than others in return for the rock, the primates refused to continue their participation; some got angry with their handlers. Fairness is important to humans too. Inequity demotivates us, at best – and drives us to acts of retaliation at worst. But even worse, ...

By Heather Campbell >> As is apparent from David Cameron’s indiscreet boasts to Michael Bloomberg, even Prime Ministers need to show off from time to time. “Look at me, I can balance on one leg… look at me, I’ve got a bigger (salary) package than you… look at me, I can make the Queen of England purr…” Look at me, look at me, look at me… notice me, notice me, notice me… admire me, admire me, admire me… It’s all about satisfying our ...

By Heather Campbell >> Recently I was talking to a manager in a large, global business – a household brand that I anticipate anyone reading this blog would recognise. We were discussing the type of work carried out in his part of the organisation. In passing he said: “The biggest problem now is that there’s no down-time. We’re pushed all year round. But people can’t work at 100% capacity all the time.” This resonated with me as something that I see in ...

By Heather Campbell >> Recently the UK’s opposition leader, Ed Miliband, decided to wear his heart on his sleeve and suggest that, looks-wise, David Cameron has the vote-winning image. Was he wise to do so? And should other leaders follow suit? My first response is that this is a sad situation for us all, and my toes curl for Ed and for us as voters as a result. Given what is required of him – or any party leader – to perform ...