Alfie Cohn

Alfie Kohn, an acclaimed writer and critic of grading systems in education, discusses how constant ranking and rating affect our happiness. He argues that traditional grades can undermine students' intrinsic motivation and enjoyment of learning. Kohn highlights the psychological impact of academic pressure and suggests that eliminating grades could enhance well-being. He advocates for educational reforms that prioritize internal rewards, aiming to create a more enriching and equitable experience for students.

In this conversation, Alfie Kohn, a renowned author specializing in human behavior and education, dives deep into the destructive nature of competition. He exposes how competitive practices in schools and beyond harm psychological health, relationships, and creativity. Kohn advocates for cooperative approaches as a remedy, challenging the cultural norms that idolize competition. The discussion also critiques current economic structures, emphasizing the need for collaboration over individualism to foster genuine learning and community building.