The 180 Pulse
With thought-provoking articles covering varied domains, 180DC SRCC aims to create student leaders through a holistic learning experience.
Read to take a deep dive into looking at world issues from the eyes of a consultant.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Continuing failure of Ed-Tech
The Ed-Tech industry which gained immense popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic is now on the threshold of failure. From being a supplementary mode of education to a primary one during the pandemic days, the industry is now coming to terms with reality. Well known companies like Unacademy laid off 600 employees and Vedentu another 200. Despite the fact that most of these companies are well funded and have high valuations they have not been able to perform well. They are facing problems of low enrollment rates and numerous complaints from the existing customers. The question this poses is that Ed-Tech’s were simply a necessity during an unusual time in human history and with things back in order, the limitations of virtual learning are finally exposed.
Dive deeper into this article to analyse the trends and the reasons behind the rise and fall of Ed-Tech startups and if they do have a future in the Indian scenario.
Product Updates: Is Latest Really the Greatest?
Consumers often assume that the latest product iteration is superior, but this isn’t always the case. Businesses frequently use updates, sometimes minor, to renew interest and attract buyers. This “newer is better” assumption can lead to blind consumerism, pushing unnecessary purchases and creating overconsumption trends. Despite occasional disappointment, consumers maintain interest, assuming the next iteration will surpass predecessors. While updates can improve efficiency and satisfaction, misleading updates can exploit consumers’ trust, leading to inferior purchases and unnecessary expenses.
Check out T Himaja Reddy’s article as it navigates through the disruptive world of product updates and their impact on consumer rationality by analysing the example of Apple’s recent launch of iPhone 15.
End to password sharing: Boon or Bane for Netflix?
In a shocking twist, Netflix has declared war on password sharing, ending an era where one subscription meant endless connections. The fallout was immediate – angry subscribers, threats to abandon ship. But did Netflix’s gamble pay off? The unexpected answer lies in a surge of 5.9 million new subscribers, defying skeptics and reshaping the streaming landscape. Dive into the full article to unravel the suspense behind Netflix’s bold move – a decision that not only challenges the norms but leaves a lasting mark on the future of online entertainment. Discover how the streaming giant turned a potential crisis into a triumph, setting the stage for a new era in streaming.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
In Pursuit of Truth
The Truth Serum Uncovered.
Our latest article delves into the controversial world of narcoanalysis or narco testing. Learn about the origins of this method, how it works to uncover information from subjects, the legal issues surrounding its use, and some high-profile cases where it was employed. For those interested in psychology, forensics or true crime, this piece provides a comprehensive overview of how “truth serum” has been used in investigations.
Go and check our Gautam Arora’s article “In Pursuit of Truth: Understanding the Intricacies of Narco Testing” through the link in our bio.
Doc on Call: The Next Generation of Healthcare
Imagine a world where there’s no taking time off of work to drive down to a medical centre, no hassle with parking, no fighting to schedule with five different doctors, losing your lab orders and having to drive into the clinic to get a replacement, no accidental drug-on-drug interactions, or a drop in drug efficacy because of your own evolving chemistry.
This is what Telehealth promises to offer. Read as Kavya Aggarwal discusses how e-health has reshaped how providers, patients, and healthcare stakeholders approached healthcare.
Elon Musk’s startup on Neuralink
Brain-Computer Interface: is the world ready for it?
Would you allow someone to drill a hole in your skull to implant a product like the Neuralink, assuming it was safe and worked as advertised?
How much benefit would you need from a device like this to justify the intrusion into your nervous system?
We won’t know for sure until we have to make the decision, but it’s a good idea to start thinking about it now because that day is approaching soon.
ECONOMIC AND PUBLIC POLICY
Floor Price of Basmati- A Way for Growth or a Path into Recession
In the labyrinth of India’s basmati rice market, a seismic shift occurred on September 12, 2023, when the government fixed the MEP at $1200 per tonne. The consequences were swift – a decline in global market share, farmers facing substantial losses, and a food fair in Turkey where Indian companies received no orders due to soaring prices. The government, initially unyielding, eventually bowed to pressure, lowering the price to $950 per tonne on August 27. As the dust settles, this article delves into the repercussions on farmers, the economy, and the intricate web of international relations. Amidst rising exports, pockets are affected, and the impact on India’s basmati industry unfolds in a tale of growth and potential recession. Uncover the intricacies by exploring the complete article.
FIFA Finals: The End of Qatar?
In the aftermath of the grand conclusion of the FIFA Finals in Qatar, the world celebrated the crowning of a new champion. However, as the cheers fade away, it is crucial to cast a critical eye on the true cost of hosting such extravagant global events. Behind the glitz and glamour, a darker narrative unfolds—a story of exploitation and questionable ethics. What did it take for Qatar to pull off this spectacular tournament? Who bore the burdens of its success? Join us as we peel back the layers, unearthing the truth behind the shadows, and exposing the exploitative mechanisms that underlie the grand spectacle of the FIFA Finals in Qatar.
Roof Over the Head: A Life of Dignity and Respect
Explore Mohak Bhasin’s “Roof Over The Head: Life Of Dignity And Respect,” which highlights the significance of housing in human life. It emphasizes how slums, despite providing shelter, often lack basic amenities, impacting residents’ well-being. Discover the transformative “In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project” in India, inaugurating 3024 flats in Kalkaji to improve living conditions and offer equal opportunities. The project challenges traditional perceptions of slums by providing civic amenities, cleanliness, ownership titles, and a sense of security.
Learn about the “Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna” (PMAY), launched for “Housing For All.” The scheme has constructed millions of houses, but faces challenges like land scarcity, construction quality, and sustainable financing. The article proposes policy solutions including conducting a census, disclosing financial plans, and promoting long-term occupancy for community development.
Experience the insightful journey of “Roof Over The Head: Life Of Dignity And Respect” by clicking the link in the bio. Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of housing in creating a dignified and respectful life for all individuals.
PSYCHOLOGY & HISTORY
Stature, Snobbery and Satisfaction- Unveiling The Veblen Effect
The Veblen Effect, coined by economist Thorstein Veblen, delves into the phenomenon where consumers gravitate towards costlier goods, associating higher prices with enhanced quality and social status. Rooted in conspicuous consumption, this behavior was initially observed in the upper class but has permeated all socioeconomic levels. The price-quality heuristic, a mental shortcut, reinforces this tendency, contributing to overpricing and irrational purchases.
This article by Sharanya Tulsyan remarkably navigates these dynamics and traps that consumers fall prey to while making purchase decisions. This economic anomaly is further explored through examples of social experiments, like the FRAGO Italia perfume launch and the Chivas Regal 18 whisky experiment, which underscore the widespread influence of the Veblen Effect.
Read on as Sharanya Tulsyan uncovers this twisted psychology in her article – Stature, Snobbery and Satisfaction- Unveiling The Veblen Effect.
Fashion- A Trend or Pressure?
Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear, it is a medium of expression and communication. It is a way to express our inner selves to the world and to connect with others who share our style.
In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with images of fashion trends from social media influencers and luxury brands. It is easy to get caught up in the hype and forget that fashion is about more than just following the latest trends.
Read this article by Janisha Kukreja, exploring the world of Fashion.
Cancel Culture: Accountability or Social Bullying?
Calling out people on their unacceptable behaviour to seek accountability appears to be ethically right. For far too long, marginalized communities have been struggling to make their voices heard, and with the advent of the internet, people are finally able to express themselves and speak up against injustice. However, what first appeared to be a social change that gave the people more sovereignty over their speech has evolved into a culture and become a source of contention.
The question arises, should we continue to ostracize individuals in the name of calling out unacceptable behavior? Does cancel culture genuinely promote diverse voices, or does it stifle differing viewpoints? Is it a commendable practice or a form of censorship? Moreover, should brands be concerned about the potential impact of the culture of cancellation on their reputation and image?
Riya’s insightful article explores the complexities of this hotly debated topic. Check it out now! #CancelCulture #Accountability #SocialBullying #ThoughtProvokingRead”