Welcome to a journey through the depths of philosophical inquiry in the context of the UPSC Mains Question Papers from 2013 to 2023. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is renowned for its rigorous examination process, and the inclusion of philosophy as an optional subject in the Mains examination reflects the significance of philosophical thought in shaping the minds of future administrators and leaders. Over the past decade, the questions posed in the philosophy paper have not only tested the depth of knowledge but also encouraged aspirants to think critically and apply philosophical concepts to real-world issues. In this blog series, we’ll delve into these questions, exploring the fascinating world of philosophy and how it relates to contemporary challenges in society and governance.
Whether you’re a UPSC aspirant aiming to master philosophy as an optional subject or a philosophy enthusiast keen on understanding the practical applications of philosophical ideas, this series promises to unravel the intellectual intricacies and philosophical conundrums presented in the UPSC Mains Question Papers. Together, we will examine the evolution of philosophical thought, the relevance of ancient and modern philosophies, and how these ideas can offer insightful solutions to complex societal issues. So, let’s embark on a philosophical journey that not only prepares you for a competitive exam but also equips you with the wisdom and insight to navigate the intricacies of life itself.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions :
- There are EIGHT questions divided in two SECTIONS and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE from each section.
- The number of marks carried by a question / part is indicated against it.
- Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
- Illustrate your answers with suitable sketches, maps and diagrams. These shall be drawn in the space provided for answering the question itself.
- Attempts of questions shall be counted in chronological order. Unless struck off, attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the answer book must be clearly struck off.
Philosophy Optional Question Paper-1 (2015)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50 marks
(a) Aristotle’s distinction between actually’ and ‘potentiality’.
(b) esse est percipi.
(c) Husserl’s notion of ‘bracketing’.
(d) Strawson’s distinction between ‘M’ and ‘P’ predicates.
(e) G.E. Moore’s refutation of idealism.
2. (a) Explain Kant’s division of categories.
(b) Discuss why Heidegger introduces the concept of Dasein in his metaphysics.
(c) Elucidate Quine’s arguments to show that analyticity is not synonymity.
3. (a) Bring out the relationship between language games and forms of life.
(b) Explain Leibnitz’s principle of ‘identity of indiscernibles’.
(c) What do we understand by incomplete symbols? What role do they play in Russell’s theory of meaning ? Discuss.
4. (a) Explain Plato’s theory of forms. Does it entail a kind of essentialism? Discuss.
(b) Does Descartes Cogito principle entail that he is an essentialist? Discuss.
(c) Bring out the relationship between existence and essence in the case of human being. Explain the issues it gives rise to for human beings according to Sartre.
SECTION – B
5. Write short notes on the following: (Each note should not exceed 150 words) 10 × 5 = 50 marks
(a) Pancavidhabheda
(b) Jain concept of Dravya
(c) Alayavijnana
(d) Satkaryavada
(e) Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga
6. (a) Elaborate Nyaya-Mimamsa debate on Pramanyavāda.
(b) ‘Our knowledge is confined to gunas alone’. Examine this statement in the light of Vaisesika and Buddhist controversy.
(c) Is anyathakhyativada an adequate explanation of error? Elaborate.
7. (a) Compare and contrast the notion of Brahman in Sankara and Ramanuja.
(b) State and examine the Samkhya proofs for the existence of Purusa.
(c) Explain the arguments of Carvaka to reject transcendental entities.
8. (a) What is bondage according to yoga philosophy? Explain the method of attaining Kaivalya in Patanjali’s yogasutra.
(b) What do Samvara and Nirjara mean? Explain their significance in Jaina theory of liberation.
(c) What is the role of Pratityasamutpada in explaining Dukha? Elucidate the means to overcome it.
Philosophy Optional Question Paper-2 (2015)
SECTION – A
1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : 10 x 5 = 50 marks
(a) “Equality does not mean treating everyone equal.” Discuss.
(b) Is civil disobedience in a democratic State justifiable? Discuss.
(c) Explain Harold Laski’s critique of sovereignty.
(d) How are individual and group rights reconciled in democracy? Explain.
(e) “Inequitable development leads to social conflicts rather than social progress.” Fynlain
2. (a) What does gender discrimination mean? Is it not a violation of equality and social justice? Discuss.
(b) Does economic empowerment of women eliminate gender discrimination? Discuss.
(c) Evaluate Ambedkar’s critique of caste system.
3. (a) Is multiculturalism a need of global society? Discuss.
(b) “The aim of punishment is to defend the moral law and to do justice to criminal.” Discuss.
(c) Evaluate the nature and functions of parliamentary democracy.
4. (A) “Man must grow materially as well as spiritually.” Evaluate this statement of Ambedkar.
(b) “Equality will be of no value without fraternity and liberty.” Discuss.
(c) How is religious nationalism a threat to secular State? Explain.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : 10 x 5 = 50 marks
(a) Write a critical note on the attributes of God.
(b) Is existence of God a necessary condition for the survival of religion? Explain.
(c) Is morality necessarily based on religion? Discuss.
(d) Is God the cause of natural evil ? Explain.
(e) Do faith and reason go together? Discuss.
6. (a) How can the religious language be verified? Is it correct to say that religious language is verified because it cannot be falsified? Discuss.
(b) Explain the nature of mysticism in Hinduism and Islam.
(c) Can revelation be justified by reason? Discuss.
7. (a) Do you think that evil is a bitter pill which no theist can easily swallow? Discuss.
(b) “Immortality means absence of Karma and Rebirth.” Discuss.
(c) Examine the Nyaya arguments in favour of the existence of God.
8. (a) “An atheist may be a better man than a religious person bereft of moral values.” Discuss.
(b) Examine the ontological and cosmological arguments in favour of the existence of God.
(c) What is liberation? Briefly discuss the ways to attain it as outlined in the systems of Vedanta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the significance of studying philosophy in the UPSC Mains examination?
Answer: Philosophy offers a unique perspective on ethical, moral, and intellectual issues, which is crucial for future administrators. It helps candidates develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making it relevant for the civil services.
Q: Are the philosophy questions in UPSC Mains focused on historical philosophy or do they cover contemporary topics as well?
Answer: The questions in UPSC Mains philosophy papers often bridge the gap between traditional philosophical concepts and their practical applications in contemporary scenarios. Aspirants are required to understand and analyze both historical and modern philosophical ideas.
Q: How can I prepare for philosophy in the UPSC Mains exam, especially if I have no prior background in philosophy?
Answer: While a background in philosophy can be beneficial, it’s not a prerequisite. Start with the basics, study important philosophers and their ideas, and practice answering previous years’ questions to grasp the pattern and approach required for philosophical questions.
Q: What is the role of philosophy in addressing real-world issues through the UPSC examination?
Answer: Philosophy equips future administrators with the ability to think critically and ethically. The questions in UPSC Mains challenge candidates to apply philosophical concepts to contemporary problems, enabling them to propose well-reasoned solutions.
Q: Can you provide some examples of the type of philosophical questions asked in the UPSC Mains from 2013 to 2023?
Answer: Certainly, the questions cover a wide range of topics. For instance, questions might address ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, epistemology, and more. These questions require candidates to not only understand philosophical concepts but also analyze and apply them to real-life situations.
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