Which one of the following statements is least essential as a part of the argument in the above passage ?
- (a) Man seeks control over external things affecting him. ✓ UPSC's answer
- (b) In society, there are 'super' and 'sub' human beings.
- (c) Exceptions to universal citizen participation are conducive to systemic efficacy.
- (d) Governing implies recognition of disparities in individual capacities.
Why the answer is (a)
• The passage argues that excluding many from governance is justified to ensure the 'good of society' and the 'viability of the political process.'
• Option (c) directly supports this by stating that exceptions to universal participation aid systemic efficacy, which aligns with the 'viability' mentioned in the text.
• Option (d) supports the premise that governing requires recognizing disparities, which justifies why only a 'few select citizens' should govern.
• Option (b) reflects the underlying assumption that humans can be 'rightfully segregated' into select groups, supporting the exclusion of the many.
• Option (a) discusses the human desire for control over external things, a concept not mentioned or implied in the passage's specific argument about political exclusion and societal viability.
• Therefore, option (a) is the least essential part of the argument as it is irrelevant to the specific logic of justifying political exclusion.
Why the other options are wrong
- (b) In society, there are 'super' and 'sub' human beings.
- This option is essential because the passage's justification for segregation implies a hierarchy or distinction between the 'select' few and the excluded many.
- (c) Exceptions to universal citizen participation are conducive to systemic efficacy.
- This option is essential because it directly paraphrases the passage's claim that exclusion is justified for the 'viability of the political process.'
- (d) Governing implies recognition of disparities in individual capacities.
- This option is essential because the passage's focus on 'select citizens' inherently relies on the recognition of differing capacities or worth among individuals.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.