Comprehension : Comprehension

Q 213 / 466

UPSC CSE Prelims 2019

Inequality is visible, even statistically measurable in many instances, but the economic power that drives it is invisible and not measurable... Like the force of gravity, power is the organising principle of inequality, be it of income, or wealth, gender, race, religion and region. Its effects are seen in a pervasive manner in all spheres, but the ways in which economic power pulls and tilts visible economic variables remain invisibly obscure.

On the basis of the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

  1. Economic power is the only reason for the existence of inequality in a society
  2. Inequality of different kinds, income, wealth, etc. reinforces power.
  3. Economic power can be analysed more through its effects than by direct empirical methods.

Which of thy above assumptions is/are valid?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

Assumption 3 is valid.

  • The passage explicitly states that "economic power that drives it is invisible and not measurable."
  • It further notes that "Its effects are seen in a pervasive manner in all spheres, but the ways in which economic power pulls and tilts visible economic variables remain invisibly obscure."
  • This implies that since economic power itself cannot be directly measured or observed, its analysis must primarily be conducted through the observation and interpretation of its widespread effects on various forms of inequality and visible economic variables.

Incorrect Options

Assumptions 1 and 2 are not valid based on the passage.

  • Regarding Assumption 1 (Economic power is the only reason for the existence of inequality in a society):
    • The passage identifies economic power as an "organising principle" and a significant "driving force" behind inequality.
    • However, it does not assert that economic power is the exclusive or sole cause of inequality. The phrasing "the economic power that drives it" indicates it is a primary factor, but does not preclude the existence of other contributing structural or social factors.
  • Regarding Assumption 2 (Inequality of different kinds, income, wealth, etc. reinforces power):
    • The passage establishes a causal direction by stating that "power is the organising principle of inequality, be it of income, or wealth, gender, race, religion and region."
    • This indicates that power leads to inequality. The assumption proposes a reverse or reciprocal relationship, suggesting that inequality, in turn, reinforces power. This reciprocal dynamic is not explicitly stated or implied within the provided text.