Equality: NBSE Class 11 (Arts) Political Science Chapter 5 answers

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Here, you will find summaries, questions, answers, textbook solutions, pdf, extras etc. of (Nagaland Board) NBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 5: Equality. These solutions, however, should be only treated as references and can be modified/changed.

Introduction

The chapter delves into the concept of equality, its various dimensions, and its application in different societal contexts. It begins by highlighting the existing inequalities in India, such as the literacy rate among different genders and social groups, and the economic disparity among various classes. The chapter emphasizes that equality does not imply absolute sameness among individuals but rather equal opportunities for all to develop their faculties.

It explores five principal dimensions of equality: Political, Civil or Legal, Social, Economic, and Gender Equality. Political equality refers to equal access to political rights for all citizens, while civil or legal equality emphasizes equal protection under the law. Social equality advocates for the absence of discrimination based on caste, race, or sex, and economic equality calls for equal pay for equal work and the right to work for all. Gender equality, or feminism, is the belief that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men.

The chapter discusses affirmative action programs, such as reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and OBCs in government institutions and civil services, and the controversies surrounding these measures. It concludes with a discussion on the need for a serious rethinking about the policy of reservations, suggesting that the rationale should be economic backwardness rather than caste.

Textual questions and answers

A. Long answer questions

1. Explain the meaning of the term ‘Equality’. Do you agree with the view that equality should mean “equality of opportunities” for all?

Answer: The term ‘Equality’ asserts the “Equal Standing” of all persons. It does not imply treating all people in an identical manner or absolute equality among people. By equality is meant that “equals ought to be treated alike in the respect in which they are equal.” The principle of equality lays emphasis on “impartiality.” It underlines that each individual should get “equal opportunities” to develop all his faculties. Nobody’s intellect or capability should remain undeveloped for want of proper opportunities. In the field of education, for example, equality would mean that everybody should have schooling. It does not mean that all children should be declared as passed without a test or all should be awarded equal marks. The principle of equal opportunities would simply mean “appropriate opportunities for all.”

I agree with the view that equality should mean “equality of opportunities” for all. This perspective ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the chance to develop their skills and talents to the fullest extent. It is a principle that promotes fairness and justice, recognizing that while people are different in terms of their abilities and circumstances, they should all have the same opportunities to succeed.

2. What does Economic Equality mean? What are the various aspects of Economic Equality?
Or
Inequalities ought to be reduced to the minimum and all have a right to the bare minimum and equal pay for equal work. Comment on this statement.

Answer: Economic Equality implies that inequalities ought to be reduced to the minimum. It is unacceptable for a system to continue widening the gap between the rich and the poor. Harold Laski stated, “nobody should possess such an amount of wealth as would make the State very largely an institution dominated by the owners of private property.” Political thinkers have spoken of “a tolerable range” within which wages and income can vary.

The various aspects of economic equality are as follows:

(i) Inequalities ought to be Reduced to the Minimum: We cannot approve of a system that continues to widen the gap between the rich and the poor.

(ii) All Have a Right to Bare Minimum: One’s basic needs those of food, clothing and shelter should be satisfied. Economic equality implies that all should have the Right to Work. There should also be a system of Social Security (public, i.e., state assistance) in cases of unemployment, old age, etc.

(iii) Equal Pay for Equal Work: Another dimension of economic equality is that there should be equal pay for equal work. In relation to wages, there should not be any discrimination merely on the ground of sex.

3. What is meant by Affirmative Action? What is the main criticism against Affirmative Action?

Answer: Affirmative Action refers to measures taken to benefit women and disadvantaged sections of society. It includes reservation of seats in legislatures, in services, and in educational institutions. The objective of Affirmative Action is to ensure that these groups, which have been historically marginalized and disadvantaged, get equal opportunities for growth and development.

The main criticism against Affirmative Action is that it stands in the way of Meritocracy. Critics argue that it can lead to the selection of individuals based on their group identity rather than their individual merit. However, it is also argued that reservation is required so long as the structure of inequality exists. This is because the historical disadvantages faced by certain groups can create barriers that prevent them from competing on an equal footing, even when there are no explicit forms of discrimination. Therefore, Affirmative Action is seen as a necessary measure to level the playing field and promote equality.

B. Short answer questions

4. Comment on the statement that “varying needs of different classes of persons often require separate treatment, but discrimination, if any, should be based on rational ground.”

Answer: The principle behind the idea of Equality is that all persons should be treated alike both in privileges conferred and duties imposed. However, the varying needs of different classes of persons often require separate treatment. Some persons or a class of persons have a legitimate reason to be granted special concessions. For example, special educational institutions have to be provided for the disabled, blind, and deaf, and the sum spent on their education per child is much higher than that spent on the education of normal children. The elderly people have to spend a lot on health care and in meeting their diverse needs. Therefore, they are granted tax concessions. The banks also offer a higher rate of interest on fixed deposits to senior citizens. Such measures cannot be treated as violative of the principle of equality. But the discrimination, if any, must not be arbitrary; it should be based on some “real or rational ground.”

5. Discuss Marxist point of view regarding Equality.

Answer: The Marxists placed much emphasis on ‘Economic Equality. According to them, abolition of private property is necessary to ensure equality. Their objective is to transfer “private assets” into “public ownership”, i.e., nationalization of land, factories, mines, banks, and other means of production and distribution. Such a system would be achieved by means of a violent revolution. There has to be a ‘Dictatorship of the Proletariat’ (working-class people) before a full communist system could emerge. The Communist model ended in failure in the former Soviet Union (Russia) and many other countries of Europe.

6. What is Feminism?

Answer: Feminism is “the political belief that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunity that men have.” It does not mean that women and men have to become the same. It is not at all possible; it is unnatural to be so. Gender equality means that one’s rights will not depend on whether one is born a male or female. Gender inequality arises from the system called ‘Patriarchy’ in which men have had all the power and importance in a society. Even in those countries where women have been enjoying political rights for a long time, political processes are usually male-centered.

7. Mention the following two ways in which Equality could be promoted:

(a) Absence of Privileges

Answer: Absence of Privileges, i.e., Equality before Law, is one way to promote equality. This means that all individuals, regardless of their social status or wealth, should be treated equally under the law. No one should have special privileges that exempt them from the law or give them undue advantage over others. Our Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, caste, or sex, etc. Untouchability has been abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden.

(b) Adequate Opportunities for all

Answer: Providing Adequate Opportunities for all is another way to promote equality. Positively speaking, equality implies that all persons should be given adequate opportunities for self-development. According to Laski, “the basic needs of all the members of society must be fulfilled.” Moreover, all must be provided with educational facilities so that nobody’s talent remained stunted.

C. Multiple Choice Questions: Tick (✓) the correct answer.

8. The correct view of Equality is:

Answer: (b) No person shall be ineligible for inclusion in electoral list on grounds of religion, race, caste or sex.

9. Who among the following fought against social and political inequalities being practised against the Blacks in South Africa?

Answer: (a) Nelson Mandela

10. The leader of the American Civil Rights Movement from 1955 to his death at Memphis in 1968 was:

Answer: (d) Martin Luther King, Jr.

11. Which of the following Declarations said, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”?

Answer: (d) Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948.

Value-based question

Some political thinkers are of the opinion that it is a time to do a serious rethinking about the policy of reservations. They maintain that the ‘rationale’ of reservations should be ‘economic backwardness’ and not ‘the caste’. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons for your answer

Answer: I can see the merits in both perspectives regarding the policy of reservations. On one hand, the caste-based reservation system was initially implemented with the intention of rectifying historical injustices and social inequalities. It aimed to provide opportunities for those who had been systematically marginalized and denied access to resources and opportunities due to their caste. This system has indeed helped many individuals from lower castes to improve their social and economic status.

On the other hand, I also understand the argument that reservations should be based on economic backwardness rather than caste. This perspective argues that economic disadvantage can affect individuals from any caste, and therefore, the benefits of reservation should be extended to all those who are economically disadvantaged. This approach could potentially address the issue of poverty more directly and effectively.

However, it’s important to note that caste and economic status in India are often closely intertwined due to historical and systemic factors. Therefore, while shifting the focus of reservations to economic status might seem more equitable on the surface, it could potentially overlook the deep-seated social inequalities that are tied to caste.

Thus, while I see the merit in the argument for economic-based reservations, I believe that any changes to the current system should be made cautiously and with a thorough understanding of the complex interplay between caste and economic status in India. It might be more effective to have a dual system that considers both caste and economic status, rather than replacing one with the other.

Additional/extra questions and answers

1. What does the American Declaration of Independence from July 4, 1776 state about equality?

Answer: The American Declaration of Independence from July 4, 1776 states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

2. What did the National Assembly of France declare in 1789 regarding human beings?

Answer: The National Assembly of France declared in 1789 that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”

3. How is global inequality illustrated?

Answer: Global inequality is illustrated by the stark differences between social classes, especially in regard to poverty and disease. Furthermore, the income disparity is highlighted by the fact that although the population of high-income countries is only about 15% of the world population, the citizens of these countries enjoy nearly four-fifths (79%) of the global national income.

4. What does the Census 2011 data reveal about literacy inequalities in India?

Answer: The Census 2011 data reveal significant literacy inequalities in India. It shows that male literacy was at 82%, while female literacy was notably lower, at about 65.5%. The literacy rate among Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) was even lower, further highlighting the inequalities in the education sector of the country.

Q. Discuss the Rangarajan Committee’s criteria for defining poverty in India and its findings.

Answer: The Rangarajan Committee set specific criteria to define poverty in India. It considered people living on less than ₹32 a day in rural areas and ₹47 a day in urban areas as poor. This economic benchmark helped them quantify poverty in India. According to their findings, in 2011-2012, 363 million individuals or 29.5% of the country’s 1.2 billion population lived in poverty. This clearly highlights the scale of the economic disparity within the country and emphasizes the need to address these inequalities.

Q. What is the significance of the goal of Equality, and how is it reflected in the context of global and Indian socio-economic inequalities?

Answer: Equality, as an ideal, asserts the equal standing of all persons and has been a source of inspiration for many. However, the global and Indian reality suggests a significant departure from this principle. Inequalities abound in income, education, and opportunities across different social classes worldwide. For instance, even though only 15% of the world’s population lives in high-income countries, they enjoy nearly 79% of the global national income. In India, such disparities are even more profound. Literacy rates differ significantly based on gender and social status, with males, in general, being more literate than females and the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Economic inequality is also evident, as evidenced by the Rangarajan Committee’s report, which stated that 29.5% of India’s population lived in poverty in 2011-2012. Given these stark inequalities, the pursuit of Equality is not just an ideal but a necessity to ensure a fairer distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights. Thus, Equality is of vast significance, as it is foundational to social justice and societal well-being.

Q. What does Harold Laski mean when he speaks of the need for equality?

Answer: Harold Laski believes that equality signifies that “whatever rights inhere in another by virtue of his being a citizen must inhere and to the same extent in me also.” In essence, all citizens should possess the same rights without any form of discrimination.

Q. How does Rashdall define equality?

Answer: According to Rashdall, equality means that “other things being equal, my good is of the same intrinsic value as the good of anybody else.” This implies that everyone’s wellbeing carries the same intrinsic worth, provided all other conditions are the same.

Q. How does Prof. Andrew Heywood define equality?

Answer: Prof. Andrew Heywood defines equality as the “principle of uniform apportionment; it does not imply identity or sameness.” According to Heywood, apportionment results from offering certain opportunities in the form of rights.

Q. What is the incorrect notion of equality according to Lord Acton and Julian Huxley?

Answer: Lord Acton and Julian Huxley criticized the principle of equality on the ground that treating all alike was both impracticable and unjust. They interpreted equality to mean “to pull down all inequalities,” which they believed to be a mistaken understanding.

Q. What is the correct view of equality?

Answer: The correct view of equality does not imply sameness or absolute equality among people. Equality implies that “equals ought to be treated alike in the respect in which they are equal.” This principle of equality emphasizes impartiality and equal opportunities for all individuals to develop their faculties.

Q. How does the principle of equality apply to the field of education?

Answer: In the field of education, the principle of equality implies that everyone should have access to schooling. It does not suggest that all students should pass without taking a test or receive equal marks. The principle respects individuals’ diverse mental capabilities and aptitudes. It also acknowledges societal needs for various vocations and professions. Thus, the principle of equal opportunities in education means “appropriate opportunities for all.”

Q. Why is treating all people in an identical manner an incorrect notion of equality according to Lord Acton?

Answer: According to Lord Acton, treating all people in an identical manner is an incorrect notion of equality because it goes against principles of liberty and justice. Acton held that people are born with varying qualities of the head, heart, and body, which leads to differences in society. It is impracticable and unjust to bestow the same wages or reward on people of different calibers and work ethics. In Acton’s view, different statuses for people of different categories are inevitable.

Q. Elaborate on why the concept of equality does not imply absolute sameness among people.

Answer: Equality does not imply absolute sameness among people because humans are inherently diverse in their abilities, interests, and circumstances. For instance, some may be naturally more intellectually inclined while others may be more artistically or athletically gifted. Furthermore, people’s life situations, including their socio-economic background, can create different opportunities and challenges. Therefore, treating everyone identically, without considering these differences, could result in injustice and hinder individuals from realizing their full potential. Instead, the principle of equality emphasizes that similar individuals should be treated similarly in the respects in which they are similar, and everyone should be given equal opportunities to develop their faculties. This approach encourages fairness and impartiality, allowing each individual to flourish according to their unique capabilities and circumstances.

Q. What is meant by Political Equality?

Answer: Political Equality means that all citizens should have equal access to political rights. This includes equal citizenship rights, such as the right to vote, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom from arbitrary arrest, regardless of religion, race, caste, or sex. It also implies that every citizen must have the right to get elected to a political office or to get an administrative post without any discrimination.

Q. Can you explain the concept of Civil or Legal Equality?

Answer: Civil or Legal Equality, also known as Equality before Law, signifies that law would protect all individuals equally, regardless of their wealth, status, gender, or skin color. This equality insists on non-discriminatory application of punishment or justice, irrespective of the offender’s caste, gender, rank, citizenship, or race.

Q. What does Social Equality entail?

Answer: Social Equality is the notion that all individuals should be treated equally, without any discrimination based on race, religion, or caste. Social Equality’s cardinal principles include non-discriminatory access to public facilities, encouragement of inter-caste marriage and social intercourse among different communities, and the belief that no one should be considered inferior or superior to others on the basis of skin color.

Q. What were the arguments made against giving the right to vote to women in the early 20th century?

Answer: In the early 20th century, one of the arguments advanced against giving the right to vote to women was that it would destroy the peace in the home. The assumption was that the husband and wife could not always be expected to vote for the same party or candidate. However, this argument was seen as unreasonable since the right to vote is an inherent right of each Citizen.

Q. How did Kabir, Dadu and Guru Nanak respond to social inequality in their times?

Answer: Kabir, Dadu and Guru Nanak were social reformers and teachers who preached social equality during times when political equality and democracy were largely unknown. They denounced casteism and called for people to rise above this evil, stating that it was wrong to discriminate between people only on grounds of sex or religion.

Q. How does the Constitution of India uphold the principles of social equality?

Answer: The Constitution of India upholds the principles of social equality by proclaiming that no person shall be denied access to public restaurants, shops, or public wells on grounds only of religion, race, or caste. It has abolished Untouchability, a social practice that discriminated against certain sections of society. Furthermore, it implicitly encourages a social order based on inter-caste marriage and social intercourse among different communities.

Q. Could you explain the implications of social equality in the context of the United States’ education system?

Answer: In the context of the United States’ education system, social equality has significant implications. As an example, two types of cultures developed in schools where children of Whites and Blacks received education together. This situation highlighted the importance of treating everyone equally regardless of their skin color. However, there were instances where it seemed that schools were not culturally nurturing, but instead culturally depriving, which goes against the principles of social equality.

Q. What is the Marxist perspective on economic equality?

Answer: The Marxists’ viewpoint on economic equality places a strong emphasis on the abolition of private property. According to them, the transformation of private assets into public ownership, or nationalization of resources such as land, factories, mines, banks and other means of production and distribution is necessary. This system is to be achieved by means of a violent revolution, leading to a ‘Dictatorship of the Proletariat’ before a full communist system can emerge. However, this model was unsuccessful in the former Soviet Union and many other European countries.

Q. Who is Harold Laski and what is his statement regarding wealth and the state?

Answer: Harold Laski was a renowned political theorist, economist, author, and lecturer. He stated, “nobody should possess such an amount of wealth as would make the State very largely an institution dominated by the owners of private property.” He believed that no one should have so much wealth that the State essentially becomes an institution dominated by those who own private property.

Q. What is the meaning of economic equality?

Answer: Economic equality entails several key aspects. Firstly, it suggests that inequalities should be reduced to the minimum. The gap between the rich and the poor should not keep widening. Everyone should have the right to a minimum level of resources that meet their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. Economic equality also denotes the Right to Work and a system of Social Security in cases of unemployment, old age, etc. Moreover, economic equality suggests equal pay for equal work, without any discrimination merely on the ground of sex.

Q. What is feminism and how is it related to gender equality?

Answer: Feminism is a political belief emphasizing that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men. It is closely related to gender equality, which asserts that one’s rights and opportunities should not depend on whether one is born male or female. Gender inequality often arises from the system of ‘Patriarchy’ where men have all the power and importance in a society. This exists even in countries where women have been enjoying political rights for a long time, as political processes are usually male-centred.

Q. What is the significance of the term ‘Welfare State’ and when did it gain wider currency?

Answer: The term ‘Welfare State’ denotes a system in which the government plays a key role in the protection and promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens. It is based on the principles of equality of opportunity and equitable distribution of wealth. The term gained wider currency in many democratic countries after the Second World War as they sought to provide better social security and reduce economic inequalities among their citizens.

Q. What does ‘Dictatorship of the Proletariat’ mean in the Marxist context?

Answer: ‘Dictatorship of the Proletariat’ in the Marxist context refers to a state of affairs in which the working class holds political power. According to Marxist theory, it is an intermediate stage between a capitalist economy and a communist economy, whereby the government is in control of the proletariat or working-class people. It is believed that this stage must be realized before a full communist system could emerge.

Q. Can you discuss the different dimensions of economic equality?

Answer: Economic equality has several dimensions. Firstly, it asserts that inequalities ought to be reduced to the minimum. This means we should not support a system that continually widens the gap between the rich and the poor. Political thinkers have suggested “a tolerable range” within which wages and income can vary. Secondly, it emphasizes that everyone should have a right to a bare minimum. This includes basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Everyone should have the right to work and a system of Social Security should be in place for cases of unemployment, old age, etc. Lastly, it underscores the principle of equal pay for equal work. There should be no wage discrimination on the basis of sex.

Q. Describe the concept of gender equality and its connection with the system called ‘Patriarchy’.

Answer: Gender equality refers to the idea that everyone should have the same rights and opportunities, regardless of their gender. This implies that the rights one enjoys should not depend on whether one is born a male or female. However, gender inequality often arises from the system called ‘Patriarchy’. This system is characterized by men having all the power and importance in a society, often leading to women being disadvantaged and marginalized. Even in countries where women have been enjoying political rights for a long time, the political processes are often male-centred. This further solidifies the patriarchal system and contributes to the perpetuation of gender inequality. As such, feminism, or the belief that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men, serves as an important counter-narrative and force against the patriarchal system, pushing for more gender equality in all spheres of life.

Q. What is feminism as an ideology, and what is the role of society in the discrimination between men and women according to feminists?

Answer: Feminism is an ideology that supports equality of opportunity in social, political, and economic spheres. According to feminists, much of the discrimination between men and women is caused not by nature but by societal norms, practices, and beliefs.

Q. Enumerate some of the issues that have come under sharp focus in India regarding women’s rights and equality in the last forty years.

Answer: 

• Sex-determination tests
• Discrimination in employment
• Indecent representation of women in advertisements
• Immoral traffic in human beings
• Domestic violence and dowry deaths
• Enabling rape victims to live a normal and respectable life again.

Q. How is development seen as a means to bring about a positive change in the status of women?

Answer: Development, in terms of providing capabilities and opportunities to women, is seen as a significant way to bring about positive change in the status of women. Enhancing their skills and access to opportunities would lead to their economic independence, empowerment, and subsequently equality.

Q. Discuss the meaning of Absence of Privileges or Equality before Law as a means to realize equality.

Answer: Absence of Privileges or Equality before Law implies that all citizens should enjoy equal protection of the laws of land. There should be no discrimination between one person and another on grounds of religion, race, caste, or sex. For instance, women should not be deprived of political rights, the right to vote or hold public offices, only because they are women. Similarly, no child should be denied admission to an educational institution due to his race or skin color. In essence, no talent in society should be wasted for lack of money or encouragement.

Q. What does providing Adequate Opportunities for All signify in the context of promoting equality?

Answer: Providing Adequate Opportunities for All means that all individuals should be given enough opportunities for self-development. Every member of society must have their basic needs fulfilled. Furthermore, all must be provided with educational facilities to ensure that nobody’s potential remains stunted due to a lack of resources or opportunities.

Q. Can discrimination be justified on any grounds? If so, elaborate.

Answer: Discrimination can be justified on rational grounds, such as providing separate treatment for different classes based on their varying needs. For instance, special educational institutions may need to be provided for the disabled, blind, and deaf, and the sum spent on their education per child could be higher than that spent on the education of normal children. The elderly might need tax concessions due to their health care expenses and diverse needs. These measures are not in violation of the principle of equality. However, it’s important to ensure that such discrimination isn’t arbitrary but based on some “real or rational ground.”

Q. What is affirmative action and who does it aim to help?

Answer: Affirmative action refers to the deliberate policy of giving preferential treatment to some disadvantaged groups in society. The objective of this policy is to correct past practices of discrimination and ensure equal opportunities. The primary beneficiaries of affirmative action are (1) women, (2) minorities, (3) a few racial or ethnic groups, and (4) other disadvantaged sections of society.

Q. How is affirmative action applied in India in relation to the legislatures?

Answer: In India, affirmative action takes the form of reservation of seats in the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This measure ensures representation of these disadvantaged groups in the legislative bodies.

Q. What measures have been implemented for affirmative action in the field of education?

Answer: In the realm of education, affirmative action takes the form of reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in all government institutions, including institutions of higher learning. A Constitution Amendment Act, 2005, empowered the government to provide reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in centrally funded higher-education institutions, like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). In the United States, many State Universities, like the University of California, have undertaken affirmative action programs. In Britain, admission officers at a few Universities have been directed to consider students’ backgrounds if their marks are equal.

Q. How does affirmative action benefit women?

Answer: Affirmative action benefits women through various means. For instance, assistance is provided to Non-government Organizations (NGOs) for the construction of Working Women’s Hostels. Furthermore, at least one-third of the total number of seats in urban and rural local institutions are reserved for women. However, it is acknowledged that the representation of women in the Lok Sabha and State legislatures has not been adequate.

Q. Why is affirmative action considered controversial and what is the argument against it?

Answer: Affirmative action is controversial as critics argue it stands in the way of meritocracy, i.e., a society in which people have power or prestige based on their abilities rather than caste, race, sex, or other artificial criteria. The policy of reservations is seen as unfair to meritorious individuals who may be denied opportunities in favor of individuals from certain groups, regardless of their individual merits. However, proponents of affirmative action argue that such measures are necessary to address rampant inequalities and structural barriers that continue to exist. Private organizations, business houses, and educational institutions have failed to take affirmative action voluntarily, necessitating government intervention. Furthermore, it is a concern that a few upper caste leaders are demanding reservation in jobs and educational institutions.

Q. What kind of concessions are given to SCs and STs in government services?

Answer: For Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in government services, various concessions have been given, such as the relaxation of age limit and the standard of suitability. Furthermore, twenty-seven per cent of seats have been reserved in civil services under the Government of India in favor of Other Backward Classes (OBCs). These measures are part of the affirmative action policy to correct past discriminatory practices and to ensure representation of these groups in government services.

43. What are the potential repercussions of affirmative action policies?

Answer: The repercussions of affirmative action policies are manifold. On one hand, they are designed to correct past practices of discrimination and give disadvantaged groups a chance to participate fully in society. On the other hand, they can be seen as reverse discrimination, potentially creating resentment among those who feel they are being denied opportunities due to their race, caste or gender. There is also a concern that these policies could lead to a decrease in meritocracy, as positions may be awarded based on group identity rather than individual capability. Despite this, many argue that these policies are necessary to address systemic inequalities. As a note of caution, the growing demands for reservations by certain upper caste groups can potentially undermine the very objective of the affirmative action policies.

Additional/extra MCQs

1. On what date did the American Colonies declare their Independence?

A. July 4, 1776 B. June 4, 1776 C. July 4, 1777 D. June 4, 1777

Answer: A. July 4, 1776

2. What percentage of the world population lives in high-income countries according to the data?

A. 10% B. 15% C. 20% D. 25%

Answer: B. 15%

3. What percentage of the global national income do the citizens of high-income countries enjoy?

A. 65% B. 70% C. 75% D. 79%

Answer: D. 79%

Q. What was the male literacy rate in India according to the 2011 Census?

A. 75% B. 80% C. 82% D. 85%

Answer: C. 82%

Q. What was the female literacy rate in India according to the 2011 Census?

A. 55.5% B. 60.5% C. 65.5% D. 70.5%

Answer: C. 65.5%

Q. According to the Rangarajan Report, how many million people in India lived in poverty in 2011-12?

A. 263 million B. 363 million C. 463 million D. 563 million

Answer: B. 363 million

Q. What daily income was set as the poverty line in rural areas by the Rangarajan Committee?

A. ₹22 B. ₹32 C. ₹42 D. ₹52

Answer: B. ₹32

Q. What daily income was set as the poverty line in urban areas by the Rangarajan Committee?

A. ₹37 B. ₹47 C. ₹57 D. ₹67

Answer: B. ₹47

Q. According to the Rangarajan Committee’s report, what percentage of India’s population lived in poverty in 2011-2012?

A. 19.5% B. 24.5% C. 29.5% D. 34.5%

Answer: C. 29.5%

Q. Which year’s data does the Rangarajan Committee’s report refer to for determining poverty in India?

A. 2010-11 B. 2011-12 C. 2012-13 D. 2013-14

Answer: B. 2011-12

Q. According to Harold Laski, equality pertains to:

A. Social standing B. Wealth distribution C. Citizen rights D. Educational opportunities

Answer: C. Citizen rights

Q. Rashdall’s definition of equality emphasizes:

A. Sameness B. Distribution C. Intrinsic value D. Identity

Answer: C. Intrinsic value

Q. Prof. Andrew Heywood views equality as a principle of:

A. Uniformity B. Difference C. Partiality D. Apportionment

Answer: D. Apportionment

Q. According to Lord Acton and Julian Huxley, a wrong notion of equality aims to:

A. Encourage diversity B. Pull down all inequalities C. Reward hard work D. Provide equal opportunities

Answer: B. Pull down all inequalities

Q. The correct understanding of equality implies:

A. Sameness B. Difference C. Impartiality D. Preference

Answer: C. Impartiality

Q. According to the principle of equality, equals should be treated alike in respect to their:

A. Wealth B. Rank C. Equality D. Appearance

Answer: C. Equality

Q. In the field of education, equality suggests that:

A. Everyone should pass without a test B. Everyone should be awarded equal marks C. Everyone should have schooling D. Everyone should become a scientist

Answer: C. Everyone should have schooling

Q. The principle of equal opportunities in education signifies:

A. Equal marks for all B. Same career for all C. No tests for all D. Appropriate opportunities for all

Answer: D. Appropriate opportunities for all

Q. Lord Acton criticized the principle of equality for being against the principles of:

A. Liberty and justice B. Wealth and power C. Wisdom and knowledge D. Love and compassion

Answer: A. Liberty and justice

Q. In the context of equality, apportionment results from providing:

A. Equal wealth B. Same status C. Similar jobs D. Certain opportunities

Answer: D. Certain opportunities

Q. What type of equality ensures equal access to political rights for all citizens?

A. Social Equality B. Economic Equality C. Political Equality D. Legal Equality

Answer: C. Political Equality

Q. Who among the following advocated for social equality by denouncing casteism?

A. Mahatma Gandhi B. Kabir C. Martin Luther King Jr. D. Nelson Mandela

Answer: B. Kabir

Q. Which type of equality protects all individuals equally under the law?

A. Political Equality B. Economic Equality C. Social Equality D. Civil or Legal Equality

Answer: D. Civil or Legal Equality

Q. Which document abolished untouchability and prohibited discrimination on grounds of religion, race, or caste in India?

A. Declaration of Independence B. Constitution of India C. Magna Carta D. Human Rights Charter

Answer: B. Constitution of India

Q. What is the basis of Social Equality?

A. Wealth B. Power C. Non-discrimination D. Education

Answer: C. Non-discrimination

Q. In the early 20th century, what was an argument against giving women the right to vote?

A. Lack of education B. Economic instability C. Destruction of home peace D. Physical incapacity

Answer: C. Destruction of home peace

Q. What type of equality is first developed in the form of social equality?

A. Political Equality B. Economic Equality C. Gender Equality D. Legal Equality

Answer: A. Political Equality

Q. What does social equality encourage in terms of caste system?

A. Segregation B. Discrimination C. Untouchability D. Inter-caste marriage

Answer: D. Inter-caste marriage

Q. What was the problem identified by William Ryan in the schools educating both White and Black children in the United States?

A. Lack of funding B. Poor infrastructure C. Culturally depriving schools D. Insufficient teachers

Answer: C. Culturally depriving schools

Q. Which of the following is not a protected characteristic under the concept of equality?

A. Religion B. Race C. Caste D. Profession

Answer: D. Profession

Q. According to Marxists, which of the following is necessary to ensure economic equality?

A. Private property B. Public property C. Abolition of private property D. Abolition of public property

Answer: C. Abolition of private property

Q. What is the Marxist proposed system to transfer private assets into public ownership called?

A. Privatization B. Democratization C. Nationalization D. Decentralization

Answer: C. Nationalization

Q. Who is supposed to rule during the intermediate stage before a full communist system can emerge, according to Marxist theory?
A. The bourgeoisie B. The proletariat C. The aristocracy D. The clergy

Answer: B. The proletariat

Q. According to Harold Laski, who should not dominate the state?

A. The proletariat B. Owners of private property C. The bourgeoisie D. The clergy

Answer: B. Owners of private property

Q. What term gained wider acceptance after the Second World War to denote a system where the government promotes the well-being of its citizens?

A. Welfare State B. Democracy C. Communism D. Capitalism

Answer: A. Welfare State

Q. Which of the following needs is considered basic?

A. Internet B. Education C. Food D. Transport

Answer: C. Food

Q. In the context of economic equality, what principle should apply in terms of work and wages?

A. Equal pay for different work B. Different pay for equal work C. Equal pay for equal work

D. Different pay for different work

Answer: C. Equal pay for equal work

Q. Which political belief is defined as the assertion that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men?

A. Liberalism B. Conservatism C. Feminism D. Socialism

Answer: C. Feminism

Q. From which system does gender inequality arise, according to the text?

A. Matriarchy B. Democracy C. Capitalism D. Patriarchy

Answer: D. Patriarchy

Q. In countries where political processes are usually male-centred, which gender’s rights have been recognized for a long time?

A. Female B. Male C. Both D. None

Answer: A. Female

Q. What is the primary cause of discrimination between men and women, according to feminists?

A. Nature B. Society C. Economics D. Education

Answer: B. Society

Q. In the context of women’s rights, what practice in India related to pre-natal care has come under scrutiny in the last forty years?

A. Pre-natal vitamins B. Pre-natal yoga C. Sex-determination tests D. Midwifery

Answer: C. Sex-determination tests

Q. Which industry in India has been critiqued for its representation of women in the past forty years?

A. Construction B. Advertising C. Tech D. Agriculture

Answer: B. Advertising

Q. Which crime against women in the domestic sphere has been a prominent issue in India?

A. Property disputes B. Dowry deaths C. Cooking accidents D. Gardening injuries

Answer: B. Dowry deaths

Q. What is seen as a way to bring about positive change in the status of women?

A. Regression B. Revolution C. Development D. Suppression

Answer: C. Development

Q. On what basis should there be no discrimination between citizens according to the principle of Absence of Privileges or Equality before Law?

A. Income B. Education C. Religion, race, caste or sex D. Physical abilities

Answer: C. Religion, race, caste or sex

Q. According to the principle of Equality before Law, what right should not be deprived to women?

A. The right to eat B. The right to sleep C. The right to vote D. The right to shop

Answer: C. The right to vote

Q. What should be fulfilled according to Laski in the context of providing Adequate Opportunities for All?

A. The desire for luxury B. The need for adventure C. The basic needs of all the members of society D. The pursuit of artistic talent

Answer: C. The basic needs of all the members of society

Q. Who is given as an example of a class of persons that may require separate treatment in the pursuit of equality?

A. The rich B. The famous C. The disabled, blind, and deaf D. The tall

Answer: C. The disabled, blind, and deaf

Q. What kind of concessions are mentioned as being necessary for the elderly in the context of equality?

A. Shopping discounts B. TV licenses C. Tax concessions D. Sports memberships

Answer: C. Tax concessions

Q. What does affirmative action refer to?

A. Discrimination B. Preferential treatment C. Meritocracy D. Equal treatment

Answer: B. Preferential treatment

Q. Who are the primary beneficiaries of affirmative action?

A. Women B. Majority groups C. Upper castes D. Wealthy individuals

Answer: A. Women

Q. In the context of the Indian legislature, how is affirmative action implemented?

A. Banning of discrimination B. Enforcing equal opportunities C. Reservation of seats D. Passing of equality laws

Answer: C. Reservation of seats

Q. What was the Constitution Amendment Act of 2005 in India about?

A. Providing reservations for SCs B. Providing reservations for STs C. Providing reservations for OBCs D. Abolishing reservations

Answer: C. Providing reservations for OBCs

Q. Which U.S. University is mentioned as having undertaken affirmative action programs?

A. Harvard University B. University of Chicago C. University of California D. Yale University

Answer: C. University of California

Q. What measure is taken in Britain concerning university admissions in relation to affirmative action?

A. Banning of discrimination B. Consideration of students’ backgrounds C. Quota system for minorities D. Women-only scholarships

Answer: B. Consideration of students’ backgrounds

Q. How does affirmative action benefit women in India?

A. Education scholarships B. Construction of hostels C. Provision of healthcare D. Financial grants

Answer: B. Construction of hostels

Q. What is the criticism of affirmative action policies?

A. Inequality B. Lack of representation C. Meritocracy D. Discrimination

Answer: C. Meritocracy

59. What percentage of seats are reserved for OBCs in civil services under the Government of India?

A. 10% B. 15% C. 20% D. 27%

Answer: D. 27%

60. Who has been demanding reservation in jobs and educational institutions lately?

A. Women B. Minorities C. Upper castes’ leaders D. Other Backward Classes (OBCs)

Answer: C. Upper castes’ leaders