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Home/upsc: teachings of great leaders reformers & administrators/Page 2
  1. Asked: July 9, 2024In:

    What does each of the following quotations mean to you? "A great man is different from an eminent one in that he is ready to be the servant of the society." B.R. Ambedkar.

    Meerab Mehata
    Meerab Mehata Begginer

    This quote by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar highlights the underlying difference between eminent and great people. An eminent person is one who is well known and commands respect in the society owing to his/her proficiency and expertise in his/her field. Eminence can be achieved by excelling in certain fields,Read more

    This quote by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar highlights the underlying difference between eminent and great people. An eminent person is one who is well known and commands respect in the society owing to his/her proficiency and expertise in his/her field. Eminence can be achieved by excelling in certain fields, gaining knowledge, or developing breakthrough technology. For example, a scientist who has done a breakthrough research or invention can be referred to as an eminent personality.
    However, becoming great is an arduous task. For this, one needs to champion the cause of humanity and be ready to serve the society beyond personal benefits or recognition. A great person need not be a master in his profession, but is virtuous. He/she is the one who devotes himself/herself for the betterment and well-being of others.
    The significance and relevance of the quote can be further understood by following examples:

    • Dedicated to betterment of society: Great personalities are needed who can devote themselves for the creation of a better society and future. Social reformers like Rajaram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chand Vidyasagar worked relentlessly for the upliftment of women and making an equitable society.
    • Spearheading the cause of downtrodden and marginalized: Individuals such as Jyotiba Phule, Savitri Bai Phule offered the best possible support and help for the cause of women education with limited resources. They were empathetic to the cause and dedicated themselves, which makes them great.
    • For inclusive development: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar himself devoted his whole life against social evils such as untouchability, caste divide etc. He was a staunch supporter of equality of all and an advocate of Dalit rights.
    • To lead at the time of crises: Societies or nations need a leader at the time of crises. Great personalities are also leaders needed by the society who serve as a harbinger of new ideas and instil hope in masses for change and betterment.
      • For example, Mahatma Gandhi took the leadership role during the Indian freedom struggle so that the country could free itself from foreign occupation and imperialism.

    Thus, a great man is ready to serve the society for the greater good of the mankind. He is not concerned about the parochial view of self-benefit. When thoughts of I, me, myself transform to we, us and ours then a person becomesgreat. The civil services also require such people who are willing and able to sacrifice their personal interests for the larger public interests and help steer the society and the country towards a better future.

    See less
  2. Asked: June 27, 2024In:

    The Indian Republic chose Ashoka's Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem to reflect the same harmony achieved by him and effect continuity with his humane policies towards the people of the modern Indian nation. In this background, discuss the ethical teachings that find resonance in Ashoka's life.

    Sagar soni
    Sagar soni Begginer

    Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is renowned for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler. This transformation of his is an inspiration for modern times as well. The Indian Republic's choice of Ashoka's Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem reflects the resonance of his eRead more

    Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is renowned for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler. This transformation of his is an inspiration for modern times as well. The Indian Republic’s choice of Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem reflects the resonance of his ethical teachings in contemporary India. The Lion Capital at Sarnath, chosen as India’s national emblem, symbolizes the power of an enlightened emperor dedicated to upholding righteousness. By embracing this symbolism, modern India is committed to equality, socialjustice, and the triumph of truth.
    Ethical teachings that find resonance in Ashoka’s Life:

    • Self-transformation: One profound truth derived from Ashoka’s story is the remarkable ability to transform oneself and one’s ideals through self-reflection. It teaches individuals as well as organisations to cultivate self-awareness, reflect on their actions and take responsibility for their outcomes.
    • Equality and justice: One of Ashoka’s remarkable achievements was the establishment of one of the earliest welfare states in the ancient world. Moreover, Ashoka’s concept of ‘Dhamma encompassed the principles of fairness, dignity and justice reflecting that the foremost aim of the State should be the well-being of its subjects.
    • Tolerance and acceptance: Ashoka’s reign stands as a shining example of tolerance towards diverse faiths and dissenting viewpoints. His wisdom echoes the ongoing debates on free speech and tolerance, issues of inclusive growth as well as harmonious coexistence of different faiths.
    • Diplomacy and peaceful coexistence: After conquering Kalinga, he established contact and maintained treaties with five contemporary Greek rulers. This early example of international negotiation to foster peaceful relations inspired India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and subsequent policymakers to establish diplomacy-based ties with neighbouring countries.
    • Compassion and empathy: Ashoka demonstrated the socio-moral virtues of honesty, truthfulness, compassion, mercifulness, benevolence, nonviolence, and considerate behaviour towards all including animals. Ashoka’s emphasis on animal rights holds relevance even today, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment and wildlife preservation worldwide.
    • Humanity and humility: Ashoka showed humanity and humility by serving his people, establishing hospitals for humans and animals, providing medicines, planting trees, constructing wells and resting places, and taking action against public negligence and animal cruelty.

    Ashoka’s life and deeds remain pertinent as India progresses toward a courageous, proud, and influential nation guided by the principle of ‘Satyamev Jayate’ (truth always triumphs).

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  3. Asked: July 1, 2024In:

    What does each of the following quotations mean to you? "A great man is different from an eminent one in that he is ready to be the servant of the society." B.R. Ambedkar

    Rupali Sharma
    Rupali Sharma Begginer

    This quote by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar highlights the underlying difference between eminent and great people. An eminent person is one who is well known and commands respect in the society owing to his/her proficiency and expertise in his/her field. Eminence can be achieved by excelling in certain fields,Read more

    This quote by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar highlights the underlying difference between eminent and great people. An eminent person is one who is well known and commands respect in the society owing to his/her proficiency and expertise in his/her field. Eminence can be achieved by excelling in certain fields, gaining knowledge, or developing breakthrough technology. For example, a scientist who has done a breakthrough research or invention can be referred to as an eminent personality.
    However, becoming great is an arduous task. For this, one needs to champion the cause of humanity and be ready to serve the society beyond personal benefits or recognition. A great person need not be a master in his profession, but is virtuous. He/she is the one who devotes himself/herself for the betterment and well-being of others.
    The significance and relevance of the quote can be further understood by following examples:

    • Dedicated to betterment of society: Great personalities are needed who can devote themselves for the creation of a better society and future. Social reformers like Rajaram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chand Vidyasagar worked relentlessly for the upliftment of women and making an equitable society.
    • Spearheading the cause of downtrodden and marginalized: Individuals such as Jyotiba Phule, Savitri Bai Phule offered the best possible support and help for the cause of women education with limited resources. They were empathetic to the cause and dedicated themselves, which makes them great.
    • For inclusive development: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar himself devoted his whole life against social evils such as untouchability, caste divide etc. He was a staunch supporter of equality of all and an advocate of Dalit rights.
    • To lead at the time of crises: Societies or nations need a leader at the time of crises. Great personalities are also leaders needed by the society who serve as a harbinger of new ideas and instil hope in masses for change and betterment.
      • For example, Mahatma Gandhi took the leadership role during the Indian freedom struggle so that the country could free itself from foreign occupation and imperialism.

    Thus, a great man is ready to serve the society for the greater good of the mankind. He is not concerned about the parochial view of self-benefit. When thoughts of I, me, myself transform to we, us and ours then a person becomesgreat. The civil services also require such people who are willing and able to sacrifice their personal interests for the larger public interests and help steer the society and the country towards a better future.

    See less

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