Human behaviour encompasses the range of actions and mannerisms exhibited by individuals, influenced by social, cultural, and psychological factors. Human dignity embodies the inherent value and worth of every person, forming the bedrock of justice and equality in society. The concept of human dignity is fundamental to social justice, shaping policies and guiding principles that protect rights and promote equitable treatment for everyone.
AI isn’t the villain of our story; it’s the loudspeaker. It takes our ancient habits—bias, outrage, overconfidence—and broadcasts them at machine speed. The real danger isn’t sentient silicon, but humans wielding powerful tools while still arguing about potato-to-dough ratios with the confidence of constitutional scholars.
We no longer live in the Information Age—we live in the Narrative Age, where stories, not statistics, define truth. From post-truth politics to Zohnerism’s sly manipulations, today’s reality is served like a dish—seasoned with emotion, simmered in belief, and shared across the grand kitchen of social media. The question isn’t just what’s true, but who’s cooking the story—and why?
During the 1970s in Japan, tea was the leading beverage, while coffee struggled to gain acceptance, despite Nestlé's strong marketing efforts. To address this challenge, Nestlé brought on psychoanalyst Clotaire Rapaille, who proposed focusing on children to create a positive link to coffee. The company introduced coffee-flavoured snacks, gradually introducing a generation to the drink. By the 1980s, this approach turned coffee into a cultural mainstay and contributed to Nestlé's success in Japan.
The concept of Rita (ऋत) in Vedic thought represents a cosmic law that embodies order, balance, and righteousness, influencing both spiritual and social practices. It illustrates a harmonious universe governed by predictable rhythms, where human actions are interconnected with cosmic order. Rita emphasizes virtues like truthfulness, non-violence, and personal duty (Dharma), guiding ethical living. Its principles endure in modern philosophies, urging a responsible and mindful approach to contemporary challenges and fostering a sense of universal harmony.
The digital age has led to an epidemic of informational obesity, where individuals consume vast amounts of data without true understanding. Despite having access to more information than ever, many settle for superficial knowledge and knee-jerk reactions. To counter this, a shift towards mindful consumption is essential. By prioritizing depth, selective sources, and reflection, we can reclaim clarity and genuine wisdom in our digital lives.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the contrast between modern digital communication and the tradition of handwritten letters becomes evident. While the latter evokes deep emotional connections, the former often lacks depth. The history of Valentine's Day dates back to ancient Rome's Lupercalia, evolving with tales of Saint Valentine. In an age of instant messaging, the author urges a return to poignant, tangible love letters for meaningful connections that technology cannot replicate.
Recently, Narayana Murthy and S.N. Subrahmanyan sparked controversy by advocating for extended work hours, suggesting a 70- and 90-hour workweek, respectively. Their remarks highlight a disconnect between corporate leaders and employees enduring familial and logistical pressures. Critics argue that longer hours hinder productivity and well-being, advocating for work-life balance and a reassessment of corporate cultures to prioritize employee satisfaction and efficiency.
In 2009, a work trip from Baghdad to Beirut unexpectedly became a 20-hour journey involving a stop in Damascus. The rich history of Damascus contrasts with the current turmoil in Syria, highlighting the erosion of cultural identity amid conflict. On Human Rights Day, the need for peace and dignity for all is emphasized.
Faith provides comfort and purpose but can become a destructive force when distorted by hatred, as seen in the tragic killings of Hindus in Bangladesh. Such violence threatens communal harmony and humanity. Governments and the international community must act decisively to protect minorities, promote inclusivity, and foster a culture of peace.
Black cats have historically been linked to superstition and fear, yet they are simply animals. A personal experience involving a black cat crossing paths before a family tragedy stirred reflections on the tenuous relationship between logic and superstition. This event shaped a lingering acknowledgment of emotions and the fragility of existence.
