In this watershed work, Alfie Kohn deflates the cultural shibboleth that winning is everything. The author is convinced that competition is based on four myths: (1) that it is inevitable as a part of human nature and the survival of the fittest; (2) that it is a builder of character; (3) that it is a spur to productivity; and (4) that it is fun.

Actually, according to many psychological and sociological studies, a dog-eat-dog philosophy is not mentally or physically healthy, and it can cause excessive anxiety, self-doubt, and inefficiency in the schoolroom and workplace. Kohn suggests ways to replace competition with cooperation and concludes that American culture would be vastly enriched by this reshuffling of priorities.