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Q85·GS Paper 1 · Prelims 2019

Definition and Concept of Liberty

PolityPolitical theory and constitutional valuesFactual singleMediumStatic

Question

In the context of polity, which one of the following would you accept as the most appropriate definition of liberty?

Options

a

Protection against the tyranny of political rulers

b

Absence of restraint

c

Opportunity to do whatever one likes

d

Opportunity to develop oneself fully

Answer

Explanation

The most appropriate definition of liberty in the context of political philosophy is 'opportunity to develop oneself fully.' This reflects the modern understanding of liberty as a positive concept that enables human flourishing and self-actualization within society. Option (a) is too narrow, focusing only on protection from tyranny. Option (b) is too vague and fails to account for the reality that absolute absence of restraint leads to chaos. Option (c) is too extreme and problematic. True liberty in a civilized society means having the opportunity and conditions to develop one's capabilities and potential—a definition aligned with constitutional rights and human dignity principles enshrined in Indian Constitution's Preamble.

Liberty is not merely absence of restraint, but the positive opportunity to develop one's full human potential within a just social framework.

Answer: (d).

Question details

Year

2019

Paper

GS Paper 1

Question

Q85

Subject

Polity

Sub-topic

Political theory and constitutional values

Type

Factual single

Difficulty

Medium

Nature

Static

Source hint

NCERT Civics, Political Theory concepts

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