Not that “C” word but cooperation . . . that “C” word. Currently, I am reading “Think On These Things” by Krishnamurti. This book is structured in a question and response format drawn from a number of lectures recorded years ago. Anyway, one question posed during these discussions pertains to cooperation and what does it mean? Krishnamurti defines cooperation as doing things together, to build together, to feel together, to have something in common so that we can freely work together. Interestingly, he acknowledges that people generally don’t feel inclined to work together naturally, easily, happily; and so they are compelled to work together through various inducements such as threat, fear, punishment, and reward. I can corroborate that statement. As someone who consults with other human beings on this very topic of cooperation including collaboration and coordination, I was quite intrigued by his perspective. A reoccurring challenge with my consulting work is in fact that resistance to cooperation. Indeed, the challenge around cooperation is what keeps me engaged, energized and enthusiastic about working with human beings in the workplace.