Mind’s Eye
Newsletter
The Balance Equation: Integrating Samkhya Philosophy and Industrial Psychology for Workplace Well-being
The integration of I/O Psychology and Samkhya philosophy offers a unique perspective on workplace dynamics and human consciousness, emphasizing the importance of understanding human nature, ethical behaviour, and personal growth for optimizing organizational performance and individual well-being.
Unveiling the Path of Inner Growth: Bridging Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and Developmental Psychology
The integration of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and developmental psychology offers profound insights into personal growth, merging ancient wisdom with contemporary science to illuminate the path of inner development and well-being, highlighting parallels in self-discovery, cognitive development, moral reasoning, and social dynamics.
The Tyranny of the Majority: When All Opinions Are Considered Equal
In democratic societies, while every opinion is deemed valuable, not all are equal; they must be backed by evidence and reason. Theories by thinkers like Mill and Popper emphasize the importance of considering every opinion and subjecting them to criticism to advance knowledge and achieve a true understanding.
Instant Gratification vs. Long-Term Success: The Dangers of Running Away and Quitting
Today's trend of running away from challenges, influenced by the flight response and theories like the "grass is always greener," reflects a shift towards instant gratification over facing problems. This mindset, critiqued by thinkers like Nietzsche and Jeffers, underscores a problematic cultural shift away from perseverance and resilience.
Resisting the Pull of Instant Gratification: A Mindful Path to Success
Overcoming feelings of insufficiency and lack of motivation involves self-compassion, fulfilling basic psychological needs, and resisting instant gratification. Strategies from psychologists like Neff, Deci, and Ryan, emphasize kindness, autonomy, and a growth mindset to enhance well-being and motivation, guiding individuals towards a fulfilling life.
From Ancient Texts to Modern Psychology: The Relevance of the Upanishads Today
The Upanishads' timeless wisdom intersects with modern psychology, highlighting cognitive distortions, the journey toward self-realization, and the importance of non-attachment. These ancient texts echo principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and social psychology, offering insights into achieving mental well-being and understanding our place in the universe through self-awareness and interconnectedness.
Dharma and Attachment: Lessons from the Mahabharata on Ethics and Emotions
The Mahabharata, analyzed through theories by Weber, Foucault, Durkheim, and others, reveals insights into social stratification, power dynamics, collective consciousness, and human psychology. This epic's exploration of duty, conflict, power, and identity offers a profound understanding of the complexities of human behavior and societal systems.
The Price of Helicopter Parenting: Entitled Youth or Overprotective Parents?
The generational shift towards impulsivity, entitlement, and lower EQ is attributed to factors like increased screen time, the dopamine hypothesis, helicopter parenting, and an educational focus on academics over emotional growth. Jean Twenge's research and theories on dopamine and parenting styles offer insights into these changing behavioural patterns.
Aristotle's Wisdom: The Value of Friendship and Community in a Post-COVID World
The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted perceptions of success from traditional metrics like career and wealth to the importance of well-being, social connections, and personal fulfilment. Leading theories by Maslow, Sen, and Csikszentmihalyi support this broader, more nuanced understanding of success, emphasizing basic needs, capabilities, flow, and the community's essential role in our lives.
The Surprising Leadership Lessons Hidden in Ugadi Celebrations
Ugadi teaches key leadership lessons of preparation, gratitude, and adaptability, echoing theories from Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, the Positive Psychology movement, and Agile Leadership. While celebrating, leaders learn the importance of planning, appreciating teams, and being flexible, yet are reminded to balance these qualities with action, sincerity, and clear direction.
Beyond Expansionism: Why SVB's Downfall Calls for a Balanced Approach to Economic Growth
The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank underscores the fragility of financial institutions and challenges the expansionist mindset, highlighting the need for regulatory oversight, critical evaluation of irrational exuberance, and a balanced approach to growth. Analyzing it through economic and psychological theories reveals systemic risks and the importance of sustainable development strategies.
Breaking the Cycle of Negativity: Insights from Leading Thinkers
Despite theories like negativity bias and learned helplessness suggesting an inherent lean towards pessimism, strategies like mindfulness, gratitude, and reframing thoughts offer a pathway out of negative thinking. Embracing life's challenges, as advised by Nietzsche and Epictetus, can foster a more positive, controlled, and meaningful existence.
Inclusivity and Exclusivity in Higher Education: Walking a Fine Line
Exploring the tension between inclusivity and exclusivity in higher education, this discussion delves into how access to learning is a battleground of equality versus privilege. Drawing on insights from thinkers like bell hooks and Paulo Freire, it underscores the imperative of dismantling barriers to foster a more equitable academic landscape.
From Social Distancing to Social Disdain: How COVID-19 Has Changed the Way We Interact
The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed social interaction, fostering a landscape of fear, isolation, and suspicion. Theories by Ulrich Beck and Zygmunt Bauman illuminate this shift towards a risk-averse, transactional society, exacerbated by digital detachment and misinformation. Recognizing these changes is crucial for fostering a more inclusive future.
A Sisyphean Task: The Futile Quest for a Cure to Brain Diseases
The quest to cure brain diseases embodies a Sisyphean challenge, hindered by the brain's vast complexity and plasticity. Despite the daunting task, advances in genetics, neuroscience, and immunotherapy offer hope. This multi-disciplinary approach fuels optimism for future breakthroughs in understanding and treating these enigmatic disorders.