It's OK to think about feelings 4

I think there are interesting parallels between Dennis Hayes's debate and the lessons in the article "Attention! Top brass agree new manoeuvre", (November 4).

Although it is important to challenge and extend students and soldiers, the so-called robust approach to education and training in both sectors has often degenerated into the abusive exercise of power that serves only to humiliate and sometimes break individuals.

The more enlightened parts of the Army and higher education are discovering that to understand and develop the strengths of individuals, a judicious mix of emotional and intellectual intelligence is required.

Mark Ames
Bath University