Redefining Horizons

  Caveat.   This article is a research paper in multiple parts. The subject demands such careful treatment. It draws inferences based on facts and figures. It doesn’t tow any political ideology.  It is not meant for casual reading. It is meant to educate the reader. Do not get inside expecting something sensational.  Comments are welcome.    Realisation I was on vacation when the call came. Ms Rini George, Director of GIIMS, was on the other side requesting me to join the panel discussing the contemporary subject, Developed India 2047 Aspirations, Challenges, and Choices. The discussion was part of the ‘Leadership in Action' series hosted by the Global Institute of Management Studies located in Kochi. It took me some time to agree because the event was five days away and I needed time to prepare. I never engage in a discussion without reading up as much as possible about the subject. She insisted, and I agreed. The topic was straightforward, but the ch...

  Go Along   Comical acts online or on TV, invariably comes along with an abundant dose of ‘canned laughter [1] ’. We might miss the joke but not the laughter. Sooner than later, we too tend to laugh along; even when we don't quite get the joke. Our compulsion to go along is more pronounced when there are people around!     WhatsApp group discussions play it out best. Anyone could have initiated it but inevitably, it gravitates to align with the opinion of an individual or a group of individuals. Initially there could be many widely differing views; strong, loud and clear. As discussions progress, differing voices either fall in line, or just fade into silence. Views that differ from the majoritarian are gradually given up, willfully or under pressure. It is not always necessary for the majoritarian opinion to be correct legal or valid, yet everyone goes along!  Don't   believe  it ? Revisit previous discussions on your mobile; it could prov...