The Power of Culture in Building Economic Dynamism

Culture is the invisible thread that binds societies together, shaping the way people interact, engage, and make decisions. Beyond the laws that govern us, there are cultural practices and norms that often dictate how we behave, even in modern times. These cultural aspects, though not always mandatory, play a significant role in driving economic and social activity. One powerful historical example comes from the Mahabharata, where Dharmaraj (Yudhishthira) attended a dice game at the invitation of Duryodhana, even though he knew the dangers of addiction. Why? Because, at the time, it was part of the dharma—an unspoken cultural code—that kings must not refuse invitations from other kings. Such cultural norms, while not explicitly enforced, carried weight and shaped actions, just as they do today.

In today’s interconnected world, this idea remains relevant. A culture of interaction, responsiveness, and engagement is essential not only for personal relationships but also for boosting economic activity. Without interaction, business opportunities dry up, innovation stalls, and the economy slows down. The example of Dharmaraj is a metaphor for how certain cultural obligations—whether personal or professional—play a crucial role in keeping the wheels of commerce turning.

Take, for example, the world of job applications. A law may not require companies to respond to every applicant, but when companies fail to provide feedback or responses, they inadvertently discourage the next generation of talent. Students and job seekers do not learn how to improve their applications, refine their skills, or better understand industry demands. The result is not just frustration for the applicants but also a missed opportunity for companies to engage with and potentially cultivate future employees.

On a larger scale, when businesspeople reach out to potential clients, they need at least an opportunity to express their ideas and demonstrate their expertise. Historically, people traveled long distances, often waiting outside offices for hours or even days just to get a chance to meet someone who could potentially turn into a client or partner. In the absence of modern technology, such face-to-face interactions built rapport, trust, and eventually, business relationships. These interactions were not rushed or transactional; they were deliberate, personal, and relational—important for any long-lasting business connection.

For example, in traditional marketplaces, relationships were everything. A vendor who took the time to get to know his customers, learn their preferences, and build trust was likely to have repeat business. It wasn’t just about the sale; it was about creating a connection that would endure beyond a single transaction. Today, that same principle holds, but we often forget it in our increasingly digital world.

Automated replies, chatbots, and impersonal customer service can leave people feeling disconnected. These tools are efficient but often lack the warmth of human interaction. While technology is supposed to make our lives easier, it can sometimes create a sterile, mechanical environment that leaves little room for personal engagement. In such an environment, businesses risk losing the human touch that fosters loyalty and repeat customers.

Cultural practices, like being responsive and open to engagement, should be cultivated to keep the economy dynamic and innovative. For example, if a company responds to a prospective client or an inquiry—even if it’s just to acknowledge receipt or say that they aren’t the right fit—it creates a bridge for potential future interaction. When individuals or companies stop responding, focusing only on their immediate tasks or internal processes, they close the door to new opportunities and emerging technologies that could improve their operations.

In Silicon Valley, for example, there is an unspoken culture of openness and networking. Entrepreneurs and investors are known to meet casually over coffee, share ideas, and build relationships long before any business deal happens. This culture of accessibility, combined with the willingness to engage, has created a thriving ecosystem where ideas flow, and deals get made. In contrast, regions or industries that operate in silos or fail to foster a culture of interaction tend to stagnate.

Moreover, from a larger societal perspective, interaction and response to outreach are not just business niceties—they are a crucial part of the economy's engine. If professionals, entrepreneurs, and companies don't engage with each other, there’s no room for knowledge sharing or staying updated on emerging trends, technologies, or opportunities. Without this, industries become isolated, and economies become sluggish.

Ultimately, building a culture of responsiveness isn’t just about being polite; it’s about creating an environment where opportunities can flourish. A society where people acknowledge each other’s efforts, give feedback, and engage in dialogue is one where innovation can thrive, and the economy can grow. By making responsiveness and engagement a part of our professional and personal dharma, we contribute to an ecosystem where business relationships are nurtured, ideas are exchanged, and the economy remains vibrant.

In this way, like Dharmaraj accepting an invitation, we must recognize that cultural practices—especially those involving interaction and response—play a critical role in building a healthy, dynamic society. They are not obligations enforced by law, but they are essential for fostering trust, innovation, and ultimately, economic growth.