Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Nice Guy, the Bully and the Kiss
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Sep 13, 2024 In this engaging conversation, David Bodanis, author of "The Art of Fairness," shares his insights on the notorious baseball figure Leo Durocher, known for his ruthless tactics and infamous quote, "nice guys finish last." They discuss whether aggression truly leads to success and explore how fairness can be a powerful alternative. David reflects on childhood memories tied to baseball, the impact of kindness versus toughness in leadership, and the complexities of decency in a competitive world. It's a thought-provoking analysis on winning without losing your integrity.
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Durocher's Ruthless Play
- Leo Durocher, a new player for the Yankees, wasn't particularly fast or strong.
- To compensate, he used his spiked shoes to injure opponents, establishing a ruthless reputation.
Nice Guys Finish Last?
- Durocher, known for "nice guys finish last", became a successful baseball manager.
- His approach raises the question of whether ruthlessness is truly necessary for success.
Bodanis's Cubs Summer
- David Bodanis, as a child, watched Durocher manage the Cubs in 1969, hoping for a first kiss if they won.
- Durocher, a "lovable curmudgeon", was tasked with ending the Cubs' long World Series drought.
