Book Description

This book is a collection of twenty-one essays by Professor David Chan, which first appeared in The Straits Times from October 2011 to January 2015. The essays discussed a wide range of topics including happiness and well-being, fairness perceptions, the immigration debate and population policies, social cohesion and integration, social mobility, trust in society, public expectations, rationality and emotions, approaches to policy making, modes of thinking, democracy, shared values and principles, and the social compact between people and Government in Singapore. A common theme that runs through these essays is what David calls “People Matter”. “People Matter” refers to both the critical issues that matter to the people and the idea that the way people think, feel and act should matter to policy making and nation building in Singapore. Contents:Drill into What Makes Singaporeans HappyFairness: Processes are as Important as OutcomeThe Heart of the Immigration DebateThe 5C Challenges of CohesionFive Cs to Manage IntegrationThe Goals Matter, So Does the JourneySingaporeans' Well-Being: It's Not Just About EmotionsPopulation Priorities and PerceptionsBreak the Negative Spiral over the HazeTaking Steps to Raise Social Mobility in SingaporeSustainability is KeyTrust is a Many Splendoured ThingThe Art of Disagreeing — It Can Yield Some GoodFrom Emotions to Shared ValuesMoving Forward with Great ExpectationsStrike the Right Balance to Make Singapore a "City in a Country"Democracy of Deeds and VoicesA Paradoxical Approach to PolicymakingWhy Bronze Medallists are Happier Than Silver WinnersValues, Outrage and the Good Society in 2014It Takes Two to Tango, and Progress Readership: Academics, undergraduate and graduates students, professionals interested in social and behavioural issues in Singapore; civil servants, NGOs; general public Key Features:This is the first collection of a series of essays that examine the various social and behavioural issues that have continuously received wide public and policy attention both in and outside Singapore. Each essay presents a state-of-the-art analysis based on scientific rigour and practical relevance, identifies critical unresolved issues and proposes innovative solutions to the problems identifiedThe author is well-known academic, consultant, and public intellectual both locally and internationally. The diversity of the essays and their insights will provide a very wide reach and multiplier effect in the readership marketThe book has received a long list of book endorsements from 37 public figures who are leaders in different sectors including Cabinet Ministers, academics and university leaders, and leaders in the public, private and people sectorsKeywords:Public Policy;People;Well-Being;Trust;Immigration;Democracy;SingaporeReview: From Ministers “Our society, policies and politics have become more complex and volatile. David Chan has been an astute observer of this evolution. His insights on behavioural economics and social psychology have been especially relevant to the issues of the day. I always take his suggestions seriously.” Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, Singapore “People is at the heart of everything we do. Whether in the social, economic or political spheres, it is about the people. This book provides useful perspectives about the way people think, feel and act - these are critical considerations relevant to our policy making and nation building” Mr Chan Chun Sing Minister for Social and Family Development & Second Minister for Defence, Singapore Deputy Secretary-General of National Trades Union Congress “Through his book, David looks at - and looks out for - Singaporeans by addressing our most pertinent concerns. He writes with a strong focus on serving the people, and boldly challenges Singaporeans today with daring hopes for the future of our nation. As our city-state celebrates our golden jubilee, this book will remind us that in Singapore's next fifty years, people will matter the most.” Mr Heng Swee Keat Minister for Education, Singapore “I have found Professor Chan's essays relevant as they often contain valuable insights. Policy making is about addressing Singaporeans' needs and helping them live a meaningful life. We care a lot about Singaporeans, and their long term future in a challenging world. People matter in policy formulation and its communication. Professor Chan's essays help fill some gaps.” Mr Khaw Boon Wan Minister for National Development, Singapore “David is a well-known scholar in industrial and organizational psychology. His research and writing is on a wide range of public policy issues. He analyses issues from multiple perspectives. We need reasoned debate and feasible solutions on issues that affect us all. David's work will be a valuable addition to that.” Mr K Shanmugam Minister for Foreign Affairs & Minister for Law, Singapore From Academics and University Leaders “We all know that in any institution, it is the people within that institution that finally matters. This is even more so for Singapore, given its paucity of natural and strategic resources, other than human talent. Professor David Chan's collection of essays bespeaks of his considerable depth of understanding of why people matter so much more for Singapore. It is what makes the tiny island state exceptional, at least to the point where the world pays attention to us, out of proportion to our size. His twenty one chapters are all substantive articles first published in The Straits Times. Clearly, he has been able to communicate effectively and relevantly to the general Singapore populace. As a Singaporean, I have found many of his articles invaluable. I fully endorse this book.” Professor Freddy Boey Deputy President and Provost, Nanyang Technological University “This collection of essays by David Chan is a useful introduction to some of the key contemporary socio-economic and political issues of Singapore. David discusses them thoughtfully and frankly through the lenses of a psychologist and social scientist. His analyses provide new insights to known topics such as the immigration debate, democracy and its processes, trust in society, social mobility and sense of well-being. The book would be helpful to policy makers and anyone wanting to understand Singapore society.” Professor Chan Heng Chee Chairman Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, Singapore University of Technology and Design “A wide-ranging collection of analytical essays by a highly established behavioural scientist, People Matter examines critically the psychological and behavioural implications of current political, social, and economic policies of Singapore. This book is thought provoking, insightful, and enjoyable to read.” Professor Chong Tow Chong Provost, Singapore University of Technology and Design “Developing Singapore requires more than good economic policies or investments in infrastructure and hard technology. Firmly anchored in behavioural sciences, and with a passion for Singapore, David Chan explains in this series of essays how people's perceptions and feelings, and the ensuing behaviours influence the development of a society. And he goes far beyond observation: he provides excellent advice on what can be done on a wide range of topics covering immigration, happiness, trust, social mobility, etc. Each essay makes for interesting reading, but the collection makes you reflect and think. This is a must read for those who care about the future of Singapore.” Professor Arnoud De Meyer President, Singapore Management University “This book provides a valuable perspective. David Chan is an indispensable guide in thinking about Singapore's future in light of major shifts in its social fabric.” Mr Janadas Devan Director, Institute of Policy Studies, National University of Singapore “Professor David Chan's essays are always worth reading. He has a knack of summarising complex problems in simple terms that go to the heart of the issue. Professor Chan is by far Singapore's most distinguished behavioural scientist. His grasp of topics is unrivalled in its breadth and depth. His essays are outstanding examples of a fine mind applying science and personal experience to both national and everyday concerns, in ways that anyone can understand.” Dr John Elliott Associate Professor of Psychology, National University of Singapore “The essays analyse some critical and controversial issues that have been seizing the attention of policy makers and the public for several years. What separate the essays from many other writings on similar topics are the professional insights, principled perspectives and practical recommendations that David brings to the issues.” Professor Tommy Koh Ambassador-At-Large, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore “In Singapore's early struggling years, the key goal was survival. Now, we have gone from Third World to First World. Our citizens expect more from their lives. Material rewards are not enough. Happiness and well-being are now necessities, not luxuries. David's essays will help Singaporeans make this critical transition towards a happier and more productive society.” Professor Kishore Mahbubani Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore Author of The Great Convergence: Asia, the West and the Logic of One World “People Matter is a fascinating collection of essays that demonstrate Professor David Chan's active curiosity, broad range of interests, and warm empathy for his fellow citizen. Drawing upon his expertise in psychology and behavioural sciences, these essays explore, with clear-sightedness, and sensitivity, the varied complex emotional and psychological factors that underlie our understanding of, and responses to, the contemporary issues facing our nation and society.People Matter makes the case that our decision making should incorporate not only rigorous analysis, but an appreciation for emotional and psychological factors and contexts.” Professor Tan Chorh Chuan President, National University of Singapore “This collection of essays addresses a wide range of sentiments and concerns that have exercised Singaporeans from all walks of life in the past few years. David Chan's informed and insightful analyses help make sense of the many complex issues, from immigration to social values, that the general public and policy makers alike have had to face in contemporary Singapore. Thoughtful and relevant, these well-written articles, now thankfully consolidated into a single volume, will appeal to a broad range of readers.” Professor Tan Tai Yong Nominated Member of Parliament Executive Vice President (Academic Affairs), Yale-NUS College “Singapore is 50 and as we ponder over what the next 50 years will bring, besides further economic progress, what will also determine our future is the kind of society we will build. David Chan has contributed eloquently to this discussion through a series of thoughtful essays he has published in the Straits Times. Bringing these essays together now is a timely reminder of the multifaceted challenges we will need to overcome to build a better society.” Professor Tan Thiam Soon President, Singapore Institute of Technology “First published as 'think' pieces in The Straits Times, this collection of essays gets straight to the heart of people-to-people and government-and-people relations in Singapore. Professor David Chan combines academic acumen as a psychologist with a keen eye for everyday encounters in real life to reflect on a wide range of 'hot button' issues, including happiness and well-being, emotions and shared values, population policy, social mobility, cohesion and integration, public expectations, trust-in-transition, and the ups and downs of counterfactual thinking. In a time when social life and the art of government are ridden with paradoxes and polarities, this is a timely compendium of reflections that helpfully crystallizes issues, while focusing our attention on what is really critical in a fast-changing Singapore.” Professor Brenda Yeoh Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore “In each of these very readable essays, David Chan skillfully uses the psychologist's toolbox of theory and evidence to shed light on a range of highly relevant national issues such as population priorities, immigration, trust, shared values, democracy and public disagreements. Insightful and thought provoking for the policy maker and layman alike, this volume clarifies the key human dimensions of these complex and difficult public debates.” Mr Yeoh Lam Keong Adjunct Professor, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore From Public Sector Leaders “David's essays help readers understand why people behave the way they do. His data-driven approach is particularly reassuring for those who are used to rational decisions, logic and cost-benefit analyses, and provides them with valuable insights into the Singapore psyche and subjective considerations such as happiness and envy. It is a great idea to compile his Straits Times essays into a book.” Mr Beh Swan Gin Chairman, Economic Development Board, Singapore “These essays reflect David Chan's unique blend of intellect, passion and professional insight. They should be read by anyone interested in Singapore and its future.” Mr Peter Ho Chairman, Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore “Leadership, in the end, must do good for the lives of the people who are affected.People Matter is about what matters to people and why this matters to policy making. In this series of essays, David Chan gets to the heart of the debate, offers new perspectives, and provides useful solutions. Applying behavioural sciences to practical problems, he demonstrates that it is possible to have both rigour and relevance when analysing complex issues. Thoughtful and thought-provoking, this book is a must read for anyone with an interest in individual and societal well-being in Singapore.” Mr Lim Siong Guan Group President, Government of Singapore Investment Corporation Author of The Leader, The Teacher & You “David Chan has the knack of identifying the critical issues underlying Singapore society and public policy, apply his research in behavioural sciences and write cogently to stimulate thinking and debate. His passion to promote rational and constructive public discourse in the things that should matter to all Singaporeans is seen through this volume.” Mr Peter Ong Head, Singapore Civil Service “David is one of the most astute observers of the social and political transformation taking place in Singapore today. His comments are balanced, fair and perceptive, derived from his background as an academic and former public servant. Politicians, public servants and members of the public will benefit from these essays, which are very helpful to both those in government as well as those being governed.” Mr Eddie Teo Chairman, Public Service Commission, Singapore From Private Sector Leaders “Professor David Chan has brought his strong academic background in the behavioural sciences to the daily lives of Singaporeans with his series of essays which have a common theme, People Matter, as he calls his own works. This intentional pun reveals what he again calls his predilection for people-centricity, an approach which runs through the very readable, insightful, and thought-provoking essays.” Mr Ho Kwon Ping Executive Chairman, Banyan Tree Holdings “The subjects of David's essays are diverse and many touch on issues that are close to the heart of Singaporeans. Besides focusing on people and social behaviour in an in-depth and engaging manner, David is truly skilled in addressing many of the issues with a balanced viewpoint, and is able to articulate his thoughts in a sensible way. I believe that this is, to a large extent, due to David's own astute observations and life experiences, as well as his ability to empathise with others while remaining impartial.” Mr Kwek Leng Joo Deputy Chairman, City Developments Ltd “In this series of essays, Professor David Chan used his deep understanding of human nature and behaviour to perform a lucid and incisive analysis of Singapore society. He provided original and important insights that will capture the attention of all who care about Singapore.” Mr Lim Hock San President and CEO, United Industrial Corporation Ltd “David Chan is one of Singapore's most astute and thoughtful commentators on the pulse of Singapore. An eminent behavioural scientist, he has applied the tools of his trade to analysing Singapore as both a city and a country. In this collection of essays, he addresses head-on some of the most pressing challenges like ageing, government-people relations and local-foreigner tensions, which Singapore faces. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who cares about Singapore.” Dr Jeremy Lim Partner and Head, Health & Life Sciences Practice, Asia Pacific, Oliver Wyman Author of Myth or Magic: The Singapore Healthcare System “People Matter offers deep insights across a wide range of pertinent issues facing Singapore today. The author speaks with a distinct voice of reason, empathy, and justice. A book that will set things in motion, People Matter matters.” Ms Lim Sau Hoong CEO & Executive Creative Director, 10AM Communications “David is a keen observer of the socio-political happenings in Singapore in recent years. He diagnoses these events from the perspective of a psychologist, supported by theories, research findings and some personal experiences. He is particularly concerned about the negativity mindset and the erosion of trust between government and people. In addition to analyses, he ends each chapter with thoughtful and constructive remedial ideas. This is an inspiring book for not only politicians, but also employers, managers and even parents.” Dr Liu Thai Ker Director, RSP Architects Planners & Engineers Pte Ltd “I have known David for several years, and have always found discussions with him insightful, stimulating and thought-provoking. David is always looking at society and people's behavior in an analytical and empirical manner. Before espousing a view, he is armed with the facts, and beyond the facts, analyses behavior based on sound logic and never emotion. More importantly, he is not just a data scientist and number cruncher; his real life experiences have grounded his work in an understanding of human psychology and behavior which lends a personal touch to policy recommendations.” Ms Debra Soon Managing Director, Channel NewsAsia, MediaCorp Pte Ltd “I have always enjoyed reading David Chan's deep insights into sometimes complex issues that he unravels with literary ease. From one article to the next, on subjects ranging from Singaporean's well-being to population growth, David has always stimulated thinking and truly relates and resonates!” Mrs Mildred Tan Managing Director, Ernst & Young Advisory Pte Ltd “These essays by David Chan on contemporary domestic issues are written in a thoughtful way free of the emotions which all too often accompany many of the pieces on the same subjects in the social media today. Like the rest of the world, Singapore society is changing and throwing up new challenges. There are no easy solutions, only hard choices. David analyses them well.” Mr George Yeo Chairman, Kerry Logistics Network & Vice Chairman, Kerry Group From People Sector Leaders “I would look out for and read David's articles in The Straits Times when they first appeared. I like the interesting and persuasive way in which he describes the social and psychological dynamics in Singapore society especially those related to policy making and public reactions to policy. This is a collection well worth re-reading.” Mr Willie Cheng Chairman, Singapore Institute of Directors Author of Doing Good Well “David's essays are always thought provoking. You will be nodding your head to some of his points, pondering on some, and quite often wonder why you never thought of the point he made. I always look forward to his latest installment and I am glad that his essays have been compiled into a book for ease of a revisit. His observations and clarity of expression will aid the readers gain insight into the events unfolding around us.” Mr Gerard Ee President, Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants “David is a leading light on human psychology and how it applies to public policy. Fused with his love for Singapore, this compilation of essays is a must-read for all who care for the country. David is insightful in his diagnosis and practical in his recommendations.” Mr Laurence Lien Chairman, Lien Foundation “People Matter by David Chan is indeed an impressive piece of work covering critical social issues facing the Singapore community currently and in future. It also carries many analyses which have implications for social policies in the context of the changing social and political landscapes of Singapore. The publication is worthy of reading by students, academics, researchers, policy makers, and readers who are interested in people issues.” Dr S Vasoo Associate Professorial Fellow of Social Work, National University of Singapore “In this collection of essays, Professor David Chan captures issues that Singaporeans talk about at coffee shops, around family discussions and at the workplace. His empathetic understanding is accompanied by his ability to integrate macro and micro perspectives of the topical issues. Insightful but easy to read, these essays provide arguments and viewpoints for fruitful discussion whether among students in the classroom, policy makers in the boardroom or friends and colleagues over a cuppa.” Dr Sudha Nair Executive Director, PAVE “On those days when his essays appeared in The Straits Times Professor David Chan provided the interested public with "Wow-must-leave-time-to-read-this-one". He has thus played a significant role in meeting the need of the generally educated reader for appropriate intellectual 'meat' to chew on.” Mrs Ann Elizabeth Wee Associate Professorial Fellow of Social Work, National University of Singapore