The Most Unusual Day
 I think this is an interestingly example of how incentives can lead to unexpected outcomes and "unintended consequences". Even the author, who admitted he wasn't a huge supporter of the policy, was eager to work the system to his benefit to gain the "Baby Bonus". Hospitals were unprepared for the rush of expecting mothers and had to use extra resources, space and employees to keep up. I wonder if mothers-to be had some sort of influence physically on delaying the birth (they say that people can delay dying until after the holidays) I agree with the author's idea to implement the policy the day it is announced to the public if the government wishes to save money (and the hospital staff).

Academic Episode
  I really enjoyed reading this article. Initially, I thought the idea of challenging one's superior was a great idea. In high school, I recall friends would compete with other students for the highest chair in band or orchestra. Competitions could be made at any time, and it motivated students to practice aggressively. Still, it quickly became clear why the majority of universities do not use Seguira's methods. Once again, unexpected results are worse than the original issue.