Category: Reflections and Discourse
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The Paradox of Conditioned Joy
For many, religion and personal philosophies offer a compass, guiding them towards a meaningful and fulfilling life. They provide a framework for understanding the world, cultivating inner peace, and connecting with something larger than oneself. The promise of joy, salvation, or enlightenment through adherence to a specific set of beliefs, practices, and moral codes can be deeply comforting and inspiring, providing individuals with a sense of…
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The Authenticity Factor: Rethinking Respect in the Age of Uncertainty
In a recent conversation with Fayeza Naim, an anthropologist friend, we stumbled upon an intriguing question: What is the foundation of respect in human relationships? While many would argue that respect is a basic human right, our discussion led us to a more nuanced understanding. We agreed that respect is crucial for any healthy relationship.…
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From Compulsion to Choice: Nurturing Awareness and Independence in a Dopamine-Driven World
Have you ever found yourself automatically reaching for your phone, a snack, a drink, or engaging in a habitual activity, even when you know it’s not what you truly need? We all have those moments of mindless consumption or getting pulled into a habit that seems to have a life of its own. In a world overflowing with distractions, it’s easy…
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The Accidental Anthropologist – A Cautionary Tale of Ambition and Authenticity
What happens when the pursuit of ambition eclipses the love of learning? When classrooms become filled with students focused on passing exams, not on understanding the world? The answer lies in the growing epidemic of disciplinary dishonesty—a silent crisis eroding the soul of academia. This is my story, the accidental anthropologist’s cautionary tale.
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The Dopamine of Devotion: How Religion Taps into Our Brain’s Pleasure Center
Ever wondered why the idea of heaven or a better afterlife is so comforting? Or why some folks endure serious hardship in the name of their faith? Turns out, it’s not just about blind devotion. There’s some serious brain science at play here, and it has everything to do with delayed gratification – that thing…
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The Heart & The Head : Finding the Balance Between Love and Compatibility in Marriage
A few days ago, my friend, a budding lawyer interning at the Kurukshetra District Court in Haryana, shared a startling observation. She noticed a significant portion of the court’s docket was consumed by marital disputes – divorce filings,custody battles, property disputes, the list went on. This revelation sparked her curiosity, leading her to delve deeper into the complexities of marriage. As an anthropology…