Definition and Concept of Liberty
Question
In the context of polity, which one of the following would you accept as the most appropriate definition of liberty?
Options
Protection against the tyranny of political rulers
Absence of restraint
Opportunity to do whatever one likes
Opportunity to develop oneself fully
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.
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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