Are you gearing up for the UPSC Mains examination and contemplating your choice of an optional subject? If you’re someone who finds solace in pondering over life’s most profound questions and loves delving into the realm of philosophical thought, then the Philosophy optional might be the perfect choice for you. In this blog series, we embark on a journey through the years 2013-2023 to explore the wise and thought-provoking questions posed in the UPSC Mains examination concerning one of the most influential philosophers in history, Immanuel Kant. Kant’s philosophical insights have left an indelible mark on the way we think about ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology, and these questions are designed to test not just your knowledge but also your ability to critically engage with his ideas.
Throughout this blog series, we will dissect and analyze these questions, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of Kant’s philosophy and how it’s been tested in the UPSC Mains. Whether you’re a seasoned philosophy enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of philosophical inquiry, this series will equip you with the insights and knowledge you need to tackle the UPSC Philosophy optional papers with confidence. So, join us on this intellectual voyage through Kant’s philosophy, and let’s explore the intersection of timeless philosophical wisdom and the contemporary demands of the UPSC Mains examination.
Kant Philosophy – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains History Optional)
1. How is ‘all bodies are extended’ an analytic judgement but ‘all bodies are heavy’ a synthetic judgement ? Is ‘every event has a cause’ an analytic or a synthetic judgement ? Explain. (2017/20)
2. Elaborate Kant’s theory of space and time. How does this theory enable him to explain how mathematical propositions can be both synthetic and a priori ? (2017/20)
3. What, according to Kant, are ‘pure concepts’? Examine their role in the process of knowing.(2016/15)
4. Examine Kant’s criticism on Descartes’ view of Self.(2016/10)
5. Explain Kant’s division of categories.(2015/20).
6. How are synthetic a priori judgement justifiable according to kant? Explain. (2014/10)
7. Explain Kant’s view of causality. How far is Kant able to answer Hume’s objection that causal relation lacks logical necessity.(2013 :12 ½)
8. What is Antinomy ? Describe the major antinomies discussed by Kant. (2013/10)
9. Why Kant’s philosophy known as Copernicus revolution in meta physics? What was revolutionary about Kantian philosophy?Give reasons for it.(2012/15)
10. “Hume aroused me from my dogmatic slumber”. In what context Kant has made this statement? Explain. (2011/20)
11. What is the basic difference between Leibniz and Kant on the concept of space and time? (2010/30)
12. Why does Kant say that existence is not a predicate? (2010/15)
13. Comment on Kant’s objections against the ontological argument for the existence of God. (2009/20)
14. Hume and Kant on Metaphysics. Short Notes. (2008/20)
15. Nature of synthetic a-priory judgment according to Kant. Short Notes. (2007/20)
16. Explain Kant’s criticism of the proofs for the existence of God. Short Notes. (2006/20)
17. How does Kant respond to Hume’s scepticism? (2005/60)
18. The significance of Kant’s distinction between phenomena and noumena. Notes. (2004/20)
19. How is synthetic a priori judgment possible? Short Notes. (2003/20)
20. ‘Kant’s “Critical Philosophy” is a reconciliation between Rationalism and Empiricism.’ Elucidate the remark fully and bring out the consequence of such a reconciliation for the possibility of traditional metaphysics. (2002/60)
FAQs on Kant
Q: What are the key principles of Immanuel Kant’s political philosophy?
A: Kant’s political philosophy is grounded in the idea of individual autonomy and the moral necessity of respecting each person’s freedom. He emphasized the importance of republican government, the rule of law, and the concept of a “categorical imperative” in politics. These ideas underpin his vision of a just and peaceful society.
Q: How did Kant’s political philosophy influence contemporary political thought?
A: Kant’s ideas on universal peace, the concept of a league of nations, and the moral foundations of politics significantly influenced the development of international relations and the formation of organizations like the United Nations. His concept of perpetual peace laid the groundwork for modern discussions on global governance.
Q: What is Kant’s view on the role of the state in individual freedom?
A: Kant believed that the state should be limited in its interference with individual freedom and should primarily exist to safeguard the rights and moral autonomy of its citizens. He argued for a constitutional republic where citizens have a say in shaping the laws that govern them.
Q: Did Kant advocate for any form of revolution in his political philosophy?
A: Kant was cautious about advocating for violent revolutions, emphasizing the importance of gradual reform within the framework of existing political institutions. He believed that peaceful, legal change was the most just and stable way to transform a society.
Q: Where can I find resources to learn more about Kant’s political philosophy in Hindi?
A: You can explore Kant’s political philosophy in Hindi through translated works, academic publications, and online resources. Look for translated versions of Kant’s writings and check out educational websites and forums that focus on philosophy in Hindi to delve deeper into his political ideas.
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