Behavior Under Stress

True character shows its colors in times of stress—the reason why we praise sang froid and grace under fire. I’d also extend this analogy to a body under stress of alcohol; some are then mean drunks, others carry their liquor, and the best become markedly benevolent. We’re undergoing double stress these days—the stress of an economy hitting rocks and an election. Elections produce a combination of conflict and of giddiness. Displays of “true character” are all too visible in such interesting times.