For the quotation, bring out what it means to you in the present context: “Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” – Abraham Lincoln (UPSC 2013, 10 Marks, )
लगभग सभी पुरुष प्रतिकूलता का सामना कर सकते हैं, लेकिन यदि आप किसी व्यक्ति के चरित्र की परीक्षा लेना चाहते हैं, तो उसे शक्ति देंView Answer
This quote suggests that facing adversity is a common human experience and many individuals can handle difficult circumstances reasonably well. However, it is when people are granted power that their true character is put to the test. Power can reveal a person's moral compass, integrity, and sense of responsibility.
For the quotation, bring out what it means to you in the present context: “I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his enemies.” – Aristotle (UPSC 2013, 10 Marks, )
1. मैं उसे अधिक बहादुर मानता हूँ जो अपनी इच्छाओं पर विजय प्राप्त करता है, बजाय उसके जो अपने दुश्मनों पर विजय प्राप्त करता हैView Answer
This quote suggests that forgiveness is a sign of strength and resilience, and only those who are strong enough can truly forgive others. It implies that holding grudges or seeking revenge is a characteristic of weakness, whereas letting go of resentment and showing compassion requires inner strength and maturity.
Bring out what it means to you in the present context: “We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.” (UPSC 2015, 10 Marks, )
हम आसानी से उस बच्चे को माफ कर सकते हैं जो अंधेरे से डरता है; जीवन की असली त्रासदी तब होती है जब आदमी प्रकाश से डरते हैंView Answer
This quote suggests that while fear is a natural response in certain situations, it becomes a tragedy when grown individuals fear knowledge, truth, or enlightenment.
The quotation suggests that a meaningful and valuable life is one that undergoes scrutiny and reflection in challenging circumstances. It implies that personal growth, resilience, and understanding arise from confronting difficult situations and examining them closely.
What does the following quotation mean to you? “A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is a mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing true.” — Socrates (UPSC 2020, 10 Marks, )
"एक नैतिकता की प्रणाली जो सापेक्ष भावनात्मक मूल्यों पर आधारित है, एक मात्र भ्रम है, एक पूरी तरह से साधारण अवधारणा जिसमें कुछ भी ठोस नहीं है और कुछ भी सत्य नहीं है" — सुकरातView Answer
The quotation challenges the idea of constructing a moral system solely based on relative emotional values. It suggests that such a system lacks solidity and truth, describing it as an illusion and a vulgar conception.
In this quote, the underlying message is that achieving external peace is directly connected to achieving inner peace. It suggests that the state of peace within an individual's mind and heart is a prerequisite for creating a peaceful world.
“Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, it is better for us all.” – Erik Erikson (UPSC 2021, 10 Marks, )
जीवन का कोई अर्थ नहीं है बिना परस्पर निर्भरता के। हमें एक-दूसरे की जरूरत है, और जितनी जल्दी हम यह सीख लें, यह हम सभी के लिए बेहतर हैView Answer
Life is inherently interconnected and interdependent. We rely on each other for various aspects of our existence, be it social, economic, emotional, or physical.
Relationships form the foundation of our lives, giving us a sense of purpose, support, and belonging. Without interdependence, life can feel empty and devoid of meaning.
The quote implies that true success is measured not only by what you have achieved, but also by the sacrifices you had to make along the way. The value of success lies not just in the end result, but in the effort, dedication, and compromises required to attain it.