Phillip Barker - The edge of reason

Aussie-based Kiwi Phil Barker is a commentator on the life and style of Australian men. His recent column for Fairfax's Executive Style website entitled 'There's a scientific reason why people can never admit they're wrong' caught Jim's eye. In it, Barker looks at how our ability to reason has failed us, instead "we are all drenched in confirmation-bias, eagerly lapping up those views that conform with our own, and refusing to even look at an idea that conflicts with our cosy world-view". Barker has edited NW and Woman's Day magazines, and published such titles as Vogue, GQ, Delicious, InsideOut and Donna Hay. He is a consultant creative director and communications specialist, currently writing a book on "man stuff" for publisher Allen & Unwin.