Creative energy Quote by Carol Sanford
““Because incentives trigger a primitive, engrained response, they produce a number of unintended consequences. First, they strongly reinforce self-aggrandizement, so much so that people can dedicate highly creative energy toward the counterproductive purpose of gaming the system. Second, they focus people’s attention on the incentive, rather than on customers. Third, they reduce the sense of agency and locus of control in workers, placing it instead in the hands of those who are creating the incentives and providing the rewards. This not only undermines the ability to be self-managing, it also infantilizes people. Thus it is small wonder, given the ubiquity of this practice, that Americans struggle to see themselves as engaged, empowered participants in their own democratic institutions.””
About This Quote
Source Article: “The Incentive Problem” in Business Ethics Journal, 2015
Incentives can backfire, fostering self‑interest, distraction, and reduced autonomy.
In simple terms: Rewards may cause unintended negative effects.
Key Takeaway
Design incentives that align with broader goals.
Themes
motivation
control
agency
ethics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
ethical
strategic
When to use this quote
- corporate policy
- employee performance
- public governance
Key Concepts
behavioral economics
organizational psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What alternative motivators could be used?
- How can autonomy be preserved?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on incentives can stifle intrinsic motivation.
