UPSC Prelims 2017 Q5: Indian Polity – Political Theory
One of the implications of equality in society is the absence of
- (a) Privileges
- (b) Restraints
- (c) Competition
- (d) Ideology
Answer: (a) Privileges
Explanation
Equality and privileges
Political theory treats equality as the absence of special privileges for any group.
Everyone gets the same rights and the same opportunities, whatever their birth, caste or wealth.
| Option | Does equality remove it? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Privileges | Yes | Equality ends special advantages by birth or status |
| (b) Restraints | No | Equal laws still place restraints on everyone |
| (c) Competition | No | Equal opportunity actually allows fair competition |
| (d) Ideology | No | Equality is itself an ideological value |
The Constitution reflects this in Article 18 (abolition of titles) and Article 17 (abolition of untouchability).
Answer: (a) Privileges.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Equality means no group enjoys special privileges over others.
- (b) Incorrect. Laws apply equal restraints to all; equality does not remove them.
- (c) Incorrect. Equality of opportunity enables fair competition rather than ending it.
- (d) Incorrect. Equality is itself part of an ideology, such as liberalism or socialism.
Key point
Equality implies the absence of special privileges; reflected in Articles 14, 17 and 18.
Remember
Equality means the absence of privileges.
Common mistakes
- Choosing restraints, thinking equality means total freedom from rules.
- Thinking equality ends competition; it makes competition fair.
- Not linking the idea to Article 18, which abolished titles.
Exam tip
Equality's opposite in political theory is privilege.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — Political Theory, Ch 3 (Equality)
- Constitution of India — Articles 14, 17 and 18