Alfie Kohn is an American author and speaker known for his work in education, parenting, and human behavior. He challenges traditional views on education and motivation, advocating for approaches that emphasize intrinsic motivation rather than rewards and punishments. Kohn believes that fostering a love for learning is more important than merely achieving high grades. His books, such as Punished by Rewards and The Schools Our Children Deserve, explore the impact of competition and standardized testing on students. Kohn's ideas encourage educators and parents to create supportive environments that nurture creativity and critical thinking, ultimately aiming to improve the overall well-being of children.