The Economic Times
Elections 2026Q&A - Interviews / The Economic Times
An 1896 Texas event featured two steam locomotives colliding at high speed. This spectacle, organized by the Katy Railroad, drew thousands of paying spectators. The collision caused both locomotives and their boilers to explode unexpectedly. Fatalities and injuries occurred, and a photographer was permanently blinded. Despite the tragedy, the event generated significant publicity for the railroad.
Someone who checks their horoscope every morning may not necessarily be looking for a glimpse into the future. The habit may instead provide a sense of certainty, reassurance, meaning, identity or simply a familiar moment to pause and reflect. Perhaps that is what makes the ritual so intriguing: the appeal may not always lie in knowing what will happen next, but in having a familiar way to make sense of whatever comes next.
Psychology suggests that an attraction to fancy stationery can fulfill several psychological needs at the same time, including self-expression, identity formation, creativity, aesthetic enjoyment and nostalgia. The appeal is not necessarily a sign of materialism or impracticality. For some people, these objects offer a simple way to express a version of themselves that feels meaningful or enjoyable.
Someone might enjoy dining at an elegant restaurant for a birthday or special occasion but still opt for takeout on an ordinary Tuesday. The reason may be less about the food itself and more about convenience: ordering in can give them greater control over their limited time, attention and mental energy.
Psychology suggests that dressing up at home may have less to do with seeking approval from others and more to do with how people perceive themselves, express their identity, regulate their mood and respond to psychological cues in their environment. However, this habit alone does not indicate that everyone who enjoys dressing up at home shares the same personality traits.
That quiet cup of tea in the evening becomes a way of stepping out of the day for a while, for some people. It creates a familiar pause, a chance to sit somewhere comfortable, look beyond the horizon and let the mind slow down before the evening takes over.
Bernie Sanders quote offers a timely reminder that character is often revealed when circumstances become difficult. We cannot always control what happens to us, but we can influence the person we become while facing it.
Psychology says people who are highly relaxed at all times and do everything very slowly may not be lazy, unmotivated or less intelligent. Their pace can be linked to emotional regulation, mindfulness, low stress, focused attention and personality traits. This behavior can also help some people manage cognitive load, respond to pressure and avoid unnecessary reactions.
Psychology says people who talk extensively in office aren't always trying to disturb others or avoid work. Excessive talking can be linked to anxiety, loneliness, boredom, a need for validation, neurodivergence, or difficulty reading social cues. Workplace psychology explains why some employees speak often and how colleagues can set boundaries without creating conflict.
Intuition is more likely to be useful when someone has substantial experience in a predictable environment and has received reliable feedback about previous judgments. For high-stakes decisions, intuition should ideally be checked against evidence and deliberate reasoning.
The quote of the day by Demi Moore I think we treat the people we love the way we believe, in our deepest hearts, that we deserve to be treated ourselves explores the actresss powerful reflection on love, self-respect, healing and self-worth. Her words offer a thought-provoking perspective on how the way we treat others and what we accept from them can reveal what we believe we deserve.
Morning can offer a window before the days external demands begin to take over. Finishing a run before checking emails, attending meetings or handling household responsibilities can create a sense of having accomplished something personally meaningful before turning to the days obligations.
Psychology does not suggest that every gut feeling should automatically be trusted. People can sometimes mistake intuition for anxiety, prejudice, wishful thinking or emotional conditioning shaped by past experiences. The risk of misinterpreting these feelings may be greater in unfamiliar or emotionally charged situations, particularly when a person has limited knowledge or expertise in the area.
People naturally make choices about how they want to be perceived by others. Photographs offer a particularly powerful way to shape that impression because individuals can select the angle, expression, lighting and exact moment before sharing the image with anyone else.
The word need carries a more specific meaning in psychology than it does in everyday conversation. People often say, I need a vacation, I need a new car or I need this jacket, but Self-Determination Theory, developed by psychologists Richard Ryan and Edward Deci, uses the concept in a much narrower and more specific way.
Recent studies by psychologists reveal that assigning names to inanimate objects can heighten our perception of them as embodying human-like qualities. This phenomenon, termed anthropomorphism, enhances both the emotional and practical significance of these items. Consequently, what may once have been merely functional transforms into treasured possessions that resonate deeply within our personal narratives.
People who habitually consider both extremes may have a strong tendency toward future-oriented thinking. They may be planners who use mental simulation to anticipate different outcomes and prepare accordingly. Some may rely on defensive pessimism to manage performance anxiety, while others may use mental contrasting to weigh their goals against potential obstacles.
For many people, declining an unknown call may have little to do with anxiety and more to do with managing personal boundaries. Communication psychologist Sandra Petronios Communication Privacy Management Theory suggests that people develop rules about when, how and with whom they share private information. Because individuals often view personal information as something they own and control, they may choose to regulate who can access it depending on the situation.
Someone who frequently speaks in metaphors may be doing several things at once: turning abstract ideas into vivid, concrete images, expressing emotions, drawing connections between concepts, or making complex explanations easier for others to understand.
Twelve people were rescued from the Satya Niketan building collapse site. Seven individuals have tragically lost their lives in the incident. Rescue teams are still working to extricate one more person from the debris. The National Disaster Response Force deployed quickly following the building's collapse.
Anne Hathaway's wisdom underscores the importance of self-love in curbing the urge to please others. Continuously chasing approval from external sources can diminish one's happiness and sense of well-being. Cultivating genuine self-respect empowers individuals to establish healthy boundaries and make decisions that resonate with their true selves. Neglecting personal needs for the approval of others can spiral into feelings of resentment and burnout.
A large international genetics study has identified thousands of genetic variants linked to personality differences. These genetic influences are spread across many tiny effects, not controlled by single genes. The research focused on the widely used Big Five personality model, which describes broad behavioral tendencies. Within-family analyses showed minimal influence from shared family environments on these genetic associations.
A five-storey building collapsed in Delhi's Satya Niketan area on Sunday afternoon. Around thirty to fifty students are feared trapped under the rubble of the collapsed structure. Rescue operations are underway as people are being pulled out from the debris. Locals reported hearing a sudden tremor before the building came down. Many students studying at nearby colleges were residing in the building.
Nepalese rescuers pulled a Chinese worker and a woman alive from separate sites Saturday, 10 days after devastating floods killed at least 1,300 people. The worker was rescued from a hydropower tunnel, while the woman was found inside a damaged house. Search teams continue looking for more than 5,000 missing people.
Psychology says people who adopt strays and give a home to abandoned animals aren't acting on random pity. Their actions can be linked to empathy, compassion, attachment and a sense of moral responsibility. People may respond to an animals fear, injury or rejection because they recognise vulnerability and want to provide safety, care and a second chance.
AI can be an extraordinarily useful tool. But psychology suggests that the human mind still benefits from occasionally doing the difficult part itself.
Quote of the day by Sophie Turner: Actress Sophie Turner believes love happens naturally and should not be forced. She advises against actively searching for romance, letting it unfold organically. Turner's own experiences highlight how busy schedules and distance can hinder relationships. Her acting career includes notable roles in Game of Thrones and X-Men films.
Someone who runs when a dog barks may simply be protecting themselves from a perceived threat. But if the reaction is automatic, intense and repeatedly occurs even when there is little actual danger, psychology suggests that learned fear, avoidance reinforcement and threat appraisal may be playing a much bigger role.
Psychology does not suggest that everyone who frequently helps others is motivated by pure altruism. Human behavior is rarely driven by a single motive. A person may genuinely care about a stranger while also enjoying the feeling of being useful, feeling connected to others and experiencing personal satisfaction from performing an act of kindness.
Quote of the day by Mackenzie Scott People who have worked their whole lives in service to others should not have to beg billionaires for funding. The power dynamic needs to flip challenges traditional philanthropy, arguing that people who dedicate their lives to serving others should not have to beg billionaires for funding. Her powerful message calls for shift in the balance of power and greater trust in community leaders.
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today informed the State Assembly that 36,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have already been resettled out of the total 60,000 IDPs who were rendered homeless during the unprecedented crisis which began on May 3 2023.
Genuine support is about enabling people to achieve long-term independence and self-sufficiency. Hugh Jackman highlights the importance of offering a hand up rather than merely a handout. This mindset not only enhances individuals' capabilities but also nurtures resilience among those encountering difficulties. It emphasizes the transition from short-term aid to lasting opportunities and personal development, shaping a more impactful approach to philanthropy and everyday connections.
Catawba Lands Conservancy is restoring eighty acres within Mountain Creek Park. This project addresses soil erosion and invasive plant species over three years. Native grasses and plants are being reintroduced to stabilize banks and improve water quality. Community volunteers and Microsoft employees are actively participating in restoration efforts. The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity and ecological health in the region.
Psychology says people who just do the bare minimum at work arent necessarily lazy. They may be dealing with burnout, low recognition, unfair rewards, or a lack of motivation. This behavior is linked to quiet quitting and Act Your Wage. Psychology theories explain why employees may protect their energy, set boundaries and focus on life outside work.
Hanuman Ansh is currently enjoying a stellar box-office performance, with audiences flocking to see it largely due to positive word-of-mouth. An international release date is on the horizon for this spiritually themed film. Notably, Jai Santoshi Maa, which debuted in 1975, achieved iconic status through its gripping devotional songs and strong audience resonance, solidifying its legacy as a sleeper hit. Both films underscore the impact of faith in cinema.
Quote of the Day by Heidi Klum: Heidi Klum emphasizes surrounding yourself with positive people for personal growth. Negative and jealous individuals can hinder your confidence and emotional well-being. She advises being intentional about your social circle and its influence. This approach helps create an environment where happiness and encouragement can thrive. Choosing supportive companions is key to a fulfilling and successful life.
The quote of the day by Jane Birkin When I made mistakes, people used to laugh. I could have learnt better, but I've always liked to make people laugh reflects on mistakes, laughter and the importance of learning from life's imperfect moments. Her candid words offer a reminder that mistakes do not have to define us and that finding humor in difficult or embarrassing moments can make life lighter.
Scofield, once a bustling mining hub with a vibrant community, faced a tragic setback in 1900 when a catastrophic mine explosion claimed about 200 lives, leaving families shattered. Despite this heart-wrenching event, the town experienced growth for the next twenty years. However, dwindling economic prospects and the deterioration of coal quality eventually led to the closure of the mines.
Years before launching BeyGOOD, American iconic singer Beyonc donated $2 million in 2006 toward 42 housing units in Houston for homeless people. The project reflected her early commitment to community support and came amid the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Beyonc's philanthropy also extended to employment and addiction recovery apart from housing.
Quote of the Day by Donny Osmond: Donny Osmond emphasizes that success is never guaranteed for anyone. He learned this lesson through decades of varied entertainment experiences. Osmond's career highlights the importance of gratitude and continuous effort. Entitlement can lead individuals to overlook past hard work and opportunities. His journey teaches resilience and the value of staying grounded.
Quote of the Day by Ozzy Osbourne: Ozzy Osbourne shares his belief that hating others is not only unproductive but also brings unnecessary negativity into one's life. By letting go of past resentments, he emphasizes the importance of achieving emotional freedom and inner peace, guiding individuals to concentrate on the future. As a heavy metal icon turned reality star, his insights continue to resonate with those grappling with anger, advocating for a more uplifting existence.
Utilizing baking soda in your refrigerator is a fantastic way to combat unwanted food odors. It effectively interacts with the compounds that cause these smells, neutralizing them seamlessly. This affordable method is effortless, although its important to note that baking soda wont clean spills or address the root of the odors. Besides your fridge, it can also work wonders in trash bins, cabinets, and footwear.
Actor Sonu Sood arrived in Kathmandu with his foundation team. They are delivering critical assistance to flood-affected communities in Nepal. The foundation plans to provide sustained, long-term support to the region. Immediate focus includes distributing essential items and assessing ongoing needs.
A stream restoration project transformed a degraded parkland section in southeast Washington, DC. This initiative improved habitat and resolved long-standing erosion and stormwater issues effectively. The project restored over 500 feet of urban stream and created a new community walking trail. Native vegetation was planted, and invasive species were removed, enhancing the ecosystem.
Quote of the day by Salma Hayek reminds us that beauty becomes liberating when we stop treating it as a verdict handed down by someone else. We are not required to wait for society to tell us that we are worthy of appreciation. We can learn to notice our own strengths, celebrate our individuality, embrace our imperfections, and recognize the beauty contained in our experiences.
Quote of the day by Zendaya focuses on self-validation and the need to protect your sense of self from outside opinions. Her words encourage people to trust their choices, separate useful feedback from criticism, protect mental peace, and accept their individuality. The quote also connects with her career, from Disney Channel roles to films and the HBO series Euphoria.
Wrapping coriander in aluminium foil is not just a kitchen trend. It blocks light that breaks down chlorophyll, manages moisture without causing rot, and controls the environment around the leaves. Research on herb postharvest storage backs the logic. A simple habit that can save a lot of wasted coriander.
Some people experience uncertainty as particularly uncomfortable, which can make them seek answers, structure and predictability as quickly as possible. Others are more comfortable with ambiguity and can tolerate not knowing how a situation will unfold without feeling the same degree of distress.

30 C