With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. A study of the famous battles of history would help us understand the modern warfare. 2. Studying the history is essential for anyone who aspires to be a leader. Which of these assumptions is/are valid?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• The passage states that studying famous battles reveals qualities and attributes that enabled winners to win, specifically for those who lead or aspire to leadership.
• Assumption 1 claims the study helps understand 'modern warfare,' but the passage focuses on leadership qualities and attributes, not tactical or strategic military knowledge for modern combat.
• Assumption 2 claims studying history is 'essential' for 'anyone' aspiring to be a leader, which is an overgeneralization; the passage suggests it is beneficial for revealing specific qualities, not a universal prerequisite for all leaders.
• Since Assumption 1 misinterprets the scope (warfare vs. leadership qualities) and Assumption 2 overstates the necessity (essential for anyone vs. beneficial for those aspiring to leadership), neither assumption is strictly valid based on the text.
• Therefore, the correct option is (d) Neither 1 nor 2.
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage links battle study to leadership qualities, not the understanding of modern warfare tactics.
- (b) 2 only
- Assumption 2 is invalid because the passage does not state that history is essential for every leader, only that it reveals qualities for those aspiring to leadership.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Both assumptions are invalid as Assumption 1 misidentifies the subject (warfare) and Assumption 2 overgeneralizes the necessity (essential for anyone).
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2017, held on 18 June 2017. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.