We often hear that 'nice guys finish last', but this is far from the truth. In reality, across a huge variety of situations, professions and time periods, the key elements of successful leadership are in fact a potent combination of listening to others, being generous with power, and mounting a proportionate defence.


From preventing the details of the London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony leaking from any of the thousands of volunteers, to constructing the Empire State Building, to the Allied victory in the Second World War - THE ART OF FAIRNESS takes a selection of thrilling case studies from history and weaves a sparkling tapestry of lessons that demonstrate the surprising components of great leadership. As David Bodanis reveals with deft storytelling, while bad behaviour might seem like the quickest route to success, mastering the art of fairness is the most reliable, sustainable - and rewarding - path to integrity and influence.