Psychonomics of Ignoring and Negligent Behaviour explores the intersection of economics and psychology to understand how human behaviour shapes everyday economic decisions. Moving beyond the assumption of rationality, it uncovers how biases, perceptions and habitual neglect influence real-world choices. Through case studies and examples, the book illustrates how small acts of ignorance can lead to significant, often irreversible consequences. Drawing from the adage “A stitch in time saves nine,” the book highlights the impact of delayed action on individuals and society, including the loss of natural, physical and human resources. Focusing on India's growth aspirations, it stresses the importance of preserving existing assets while creating new ones, advocating for greater awareness, stronger regulation and better institutional coordination for sustainable development. By combining economic reasoning with psychological insight, this book offers a fresh perspective on everyday behaviour and its broader economic implications, making it relevant for students, policymakers and general readers alike.
Dr Suman Luthra is Professor and Head of the Department of Economics at S. A. Jain (P.G.) College, Ambala City, Haryana, with over 35 years of distinguished teaching and research experience. She holds MA, MPhil and PhD degrees in Economics, an MA in Mass Communication and Journalism and is a gold medallist in vocal music, bringing a rare fusion of intellect and creativity to her work. A prolific scholar, she has published extensively, presented at national and international forums, and has been associated with the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla. Beyond academia, she is a painter, singer, and poet; her poetry collection, Dhoop ka Chaand, reveals a deeply reflective and sensitive voice.
Foreword vii
Acknowledgements xi
Introduction xiii
PART I
1. Introduction to Psychonomics of Ignoring and Negligent Behaviour 3
Suman Luthra
2. Addressing Ignoring and Negligent Behaviour: A Constitutional Perspective 35
Suresh Dhanda
3. Communication Skills for Addressing Ignoring and Negligent Behaviour 53
Ajit B. Chandanshive
4. Individual and Collective Responsibilities: Path to a Better Life 71
Ritu Gupta
5. Recognising and Encouraging Abilities, Skills and Good Ideas: Setting Things Right 107
Abhimanyu R. Dhormare
6. Causes, Costs and Consequences of Ignoring Abilities, Skills and Creative Ideas: Preparing for the Future 143
Suman Luthra
7. Role of Innovations and Technological Advancements: Road to Development 171
Niti Pandeya
8. Sustainable Environment Practices: We Cannot Afford to Ignore 203
Bharati
9. Responsible Consumption and Production Behaviour: Understanding the Cycle of Life 227
Minaxi Mittal
10. Addressing Health and Wellness Issues: We Owe It 253
Pooja Rani
PART II
11. Early Warning System: Need for Timely Dissemination and Action 287
A.K. Tomar
12. Standard Operating Procedures: Ignoring is not an Option 315
Upasna Luthra
13. Silence of a Song: Impact of Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) on Environment and Human Life 341
Rashmi Dhawan
14. The Dawn that Never Happened: Bhopal Gas Tragedy 373
Saroj Rani
15. The Visible Invisible: Financial Crisis of 2007–08 405
Ashok K. Chauhan
16. We Pay for Our Negligence: The Kedarnath Tragedy 427
Suraj Walia
17. A Sunset over 25 Lives: The 2014 Beas River Tragedy 443
Suman Luthra
18. The World of Fake Games: Time to Rise Against Deceptive Endorsements 461
Meenakshi Sharma
19. Overlooked Images of Ignoring: A Visual Representation 479
Suman Luthra
List of Contributors 495
