“How can one be well…when one suffers morally?" ― Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy, in his historical novel War and Peace, poses a profound question: “How can one be well…when one suffers morally?" This statement underscores the intrinsic link between moral integrity and overall well-being. Tolstoy suggests that true wellness extends beyond physical health, material success, or societal progress—it necessitates inner peace and moral harmony.

When an individual experiences guilt, shame, or a conflict with their values, it creates emotional turmoil that can overshadow external achievements. True well-being, therefore, is attained when actions align with conscience, fostering genuine contentment and ethical fulfillment.

The strength of a nation lies in its unity, but unity cannot be forced—it must be nurtured. The relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India, particularly Delhi, has been a subject of deep emotional and political complexities. While political and infrastructural advancements aim to bridge this gap, the emotional detachment remains profound.

An individual’s relationship with the physical world—encompassing democracy, progress, governance, and politics—becomes crucial when emotions and moral values suffer. Decisions regarding acceptance or rejection of external structures often arise from deep-seated emotional experiences.

Historical examples illustrate that even powerful empires have collapsed due to their inability to address emotional grievances. A government’s ability to command the emotions of its citizens is, therefore, fundamental to sustainable governance.

Emotions shape perceptions of social reality. According to Petersen, emotions emerge as responses to events that impact an individual’s........

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