Question

UPSC Prelims 2017 Question:

One of the implications of equality in society is the absence of

  1. 1. Privileges
  2. 2. Restraints
  3. 3. Competition
  4. 4. Ideology

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1: Privileges

Detailed Solution

Explanation: 

    • Equality can be understood in its negative and positive aspects. Ever since the rise of the idea of equality, it has been engaged in dismantling certain privileges whether they were feudal, social, economic, etc. Thus negatively, equality was associated with ‘the end of such privileges’. Positively, it meant ‘the availability of opportunity’ so that everybody could have equal chance to develop his personality

  • According to Laski, equality means:
    • Absence of special privileges. It means that the will of one is equal to the will of any other. It means equality of rights.
    • That adequate opportunities are laid open to all.
    • All must have access to social benefits and no one should be restricted on any ground
    • Absence of economic and social exploitation

Therefore, option (1) is the correct answer.

Knowledge Box
  • Article 14 in the Constitution Of India mentions about Equality before law. It states that the State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
  • It means that the laws apply in the same manner to all, regardless of a person’s status. This is called the rule of law. Rule of law is the foundation of any democracy. 
  • It means that no person is above the law. There cannot be any distinction between a political leader, government official and an ordinary citizen. Every citizen, from the Prime Minister to a small farmer in a remote village, is subjected to the same laws.
  • No person can legally claim any special treatment or privilege just because he or she happens to be an important person. 

Subject: Polity | Fundamental Rights

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