Computers behave better when a computer scientist is watching.

Seriously! How many of you have experienced the same? Some member of your family is having problems with their computer. It doesn’t do what it’s supposed to. But then when they want to show you, it suddenly works. And they’re completely bewildered. “But I promise. It didn’t work before. Honest to God.”

Are computers really better behaved when they’re being watched by someone they know they can’t fool? What’s your experience?