Book Review: Why We Do What We Do

Why We Do What We Do: Understanding Self-Motivation by Edward L. Deci, Richard Flast is recommended reading for managers, teachers, and parents. How you relate to your employees, students, or children have an enormous impact on performance, adjustment and morale. Empirical research shows that intrinsically motivated performance is superior to controlled performance. Furthermore, contexts that diminish people’s perceived autonomy and competence undermine intrinsic motivation. Overall the book speaks to the broader issue of human development.