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 (2016)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each : 10×5=50 marks
(a) What is the logical necessity for Locke to introduce the concept of secondary qualities? Give reasons for your answer.
(b) Examine Kant’s criticism on Descartes’ view of Self.
(c) Why does Wittgenstein reject the possibility of private language?
(d) Explain verification theory. Does it lead to elimination of metaphysics?
(e) Discuss Quine’s attack on the analytic-synthetic distinction.
2. (a) Does Aristotle treat matter as a ‘Substance? Give reasons for your answer.
(b) Critically examine Hume’s views on the relation of cause and effect.
(c) Discuss Sartre’s notion of ‘Nothingness’.
3 (a) Does Plato’s “Theory of Form’ explain the ‘change’ and ‘sensibility’ of matter? Give reasons for your answer.
(b) What, according to Kant, are ‘pure concepts’? Examine their role in the process of knowing.
(c) Explain Russell’s view that “the physical object is a logical construction from sense- data”. Why does he call his metaphysical view ‘neutral monism’?
4. (a) What, according to Husserl, is the task of a philosopher? Do you think his methods are relevant to philosophy? Discuss.
(b) What is Hegel’s view on God? Do you think that his interpretation of God was contributive to the colonial and imperial expansionist designs? Explain.
(c) Discuss the various stances on God taken by Rationalists and Empiricists.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following in about 150 words each :
(A) Differentiate the concept of ‘Kaivalya’ as discussed in Jaina and Yoga philosophies.
(b) How does ‘Ksanikavada’ strengthen the arguments for ‘Nairātmyavāda’? Explain.
(c) Critically examine the role of ‘Prakṛti’ in the process of evolution.
(d) Examine Jaina stance of ‘Naya’. How does it differ from ‘Syādvāda’?
(e) Evaluate Sankara’s position on Iśvara.
6. (a) Does the ‘Doctrine of Dependent Origination’ reconcile the two extreme views law of causation, namely Satkāryavāda and Asatkāryavāda? Give reasons for answer.
(b) Can the Tattvärtha’ theory of Jainism be acceptable for scientific explana Explain.
(c) Is the doctrine of ‘Self’ acceptable in the modern age of science and reason? Exam the view in the light of Indian philosophy.
7.(a) Discuss Aurobindo’s views on ‘Evolution’ and ‘Involution’. How do they differ fr traditional Yoga philosophy?
(b) What would be Carvaka’s view on Vyapti? Can this view be acceptable to the Naiyayikas? Give reasons for your answer.
(c) What is the logical necessity for the Mimamsakas to treat ‘Arthāpatti’ as an independent Pramana ? Discuss.
8. (a) How do the Naiyayikas justify the introduction of ‘Abhāva’ as an independent category ? Explain.
(b) What are Kleśas ? How can these be eliminated? Explain.
(c) Give a critical exposition of the concept of ‘Brahman’ as discussed by Sankara, Rāmānuja and Madhava.
Philosophy Optional Question Paper-2 (2016)
SECTION – A
1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : 10 x 5 = 50 marks
(a) “Sovereignty is the supreme power over citizens and subjects, unrestrained by law. ” Discuss.
(b) A well-ordered society, according to Rawls, is effectively regulated by a public conception of justice. Do you agree ? Give reasons.
(c) “Socialism itself is the fulfilment of democracy.” Analyse.
(d) Evaluate the statement that all human beings have certain unalienable rights.
(e) “The goal in punishing should be to reform the individual.” Comment.
2. (a) Is liberty a positive and equal opportunity of self-realization? Discuss.
(b) On what grounds does Laski criticize Austin’s concept of sovereignty?
(c) “The right of free speech implies the genuine independence of the judiciary and its complete separation from the executive.” Evaluate.
3. (a) Is the State an agency for expressing the will of the ruling classes ? Examine.
(b) Can we consider “freedom from domination” as one of the justifications for multiculturalism? Give reasons for your answer.
(c) Is it possible to measure social progress independent of economic development ? Discuss.
4. (a) “To me the female sex is not the weaker sex. It is the nobler of the two.” Evaluate this statement of Gandhi.
(b) Do you agree that women become empowered through collective reflection and decision-making? Discuss.
(c) How did Ambedkar analyse the caste system from the historical and social perspectives ? Explain.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : 10 x 5 = 50 marks
(a) Critically discuss the view that ‘modern sensibility and total obedience to a despotic God’ do not go hand in hand.
(b) “World-religion is a spiritualistic and humanistic composite.” Evaluate.
(c) Is Religious absolutism a threat to Religious pluralism? Discuss.
(d) Buddhism disbelieves in the immortality of soul, but accepts the phenomenon of rebirth. Examine.
(e) Faith means human awareness of God; but it cannot be irrational. Analyse.
6. (a) The content of revelation is a body of truths expressed in statements or propositions. But it cannot be against reason. Discuss
(b) Compare and contrast the relation of man to the world in the oriental religions.
(c) Show how the attributes of immanence and transcendence of God go with omnipresence and infinitude.
7. (a) State and evaluate the nature and validity of mystic experience.
(b) “Moral principles function better when they remain independent and unconnected with religion.” Discuss.
(c) “It would be self-contradictory to say that the most perfect conceivable being lacks the attribute of existence” Analyse.
8. (a) “If God is all-powerful, God must wish to abolish all evils; but moral and natural evils are rampant in the world.” How would a theist react to this?
(b) Among the different views of religious language, which one is more satisfactory and why?
(c) “The natural world is as complexly and manifestly designed as a watch.” Evaluate.
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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