Naturally honest and cooperative

[Martin Cassini]

In a test of the nation’s honesty, a Sunday Times reporter left £20 notes in cash machines across the country. All except one next in line called out and returned the note, prompting the conclusion that despite our jaded view of human nature, most people do the right thing. Similarly, most people on the road are co-operative. But misguided regulation, above all the priority rule, makes us act against our better nature. The problem is not the public. The problem is public policy.

[Martin Cassini]

I heard the story in the review of the papers on Radio 4 at 7 on a Sunday morning. They said it was in The Times. I went out and bought it (in addition to my normal Sunday paper, The Observer). Despite scouring The Times, I'm jiggered if I could find it. Had I been dreaming? No! I heard it referred to again in another bulletin. I searched again. Nothing. I've tried googling it without success. If I did dream it, it's about time someone conducted the experiment!

[kevaquarian]

Do you have a link to the actual story on this? I would like to read it if poss and pass it round some people? Maybe others would too.

[kevaquarian]

What a GREAT idea ! I love people who research this sort of thing. In general, people ARE respectful, honest, kind and genuinely aware of our connectedness. This is contrary to the distorted view we get from the unbalanced sensationalist fear-mongering mainstream media.
I agree - the problem is not the public - the culture of 'I'll behave only under threat of punishment' is perpetuated by the controllers. We are dis-empowered by the lack of trust from those who decide the 'rules'. They want to keep the overall flavour away from 'think for yourselves' imo.
Thanks to Martin for bringing this gem to our attention.