Humans are naturally generous, according to a study reported by Scientific American. Researchers tested how much people would contribute to a shared investment fund and altered the speed at which people had to make the choice. The result: The less time to think, the more giving they were.
The economics of cheating is explored by author and behavioural economist Dan Ariely in a new RSA animation based on Ariely’s new book The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty. A professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University in the United States, Ariely explains how people tend to be a bit “good” and a bit “bad” – and that the weighting of good vs bad is often decided by circumstance. How do we change? Ariely says tweak the incentives, not the individual.
With competition for rental properties fierce in parts of Australia, the Savings Guide gives tips on negotiating on price in a tight market. The writer suggests using your track record (if it is good) or offering to pay in advance. Asking for money off for maintaining the garden is another idea. Downsizing to a smaller home or getting in a roommate are among the more radical steps for those seeking big savings.
