“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus
Kartavya Desk Staff
Q7. What does the following quotation convey to you in the present context? (10 M)
“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question This quotation-based question tests ethical understanding of contentment, self-restraint and the idea of real wealth, and its application to contemporary challenges like consumerism, corruption, inequality and sustainability. Key Demand of the question The answer must first explain the philosophical meaning of the quotation in terms of what constitutes true wealth, and then connect it to present-day relevance in personal life, public service ethics, governance and sustainable citizenship. Structure of the Answer Introduction Begin on how modern society equates wealth with accumulation, while the quote reframes wealth as inner freedom through limited desires. Body Meaning: Explain how “few wants” reflects virtues like contentment, temperance, and freedom from greed. Relevance: Link the quote to present issues such as ethical conduct in public life, lifestyle-driven corruption, mental stress from consumerism, inequality, and environmental responsibility. Conclusion End with a forward-looking message that true prosperity in a democracy lies in ethical self-governance and responsible living, not endless consumption.
Why the question
This quotation-based question tests ethical understanding of contentment, self-restraint and the idea of real wealth, and its application to contemporary challenges like consumerism, corruption, inequality and sustainability.
Key Demand of the question
The answer must first explain the philosophical meaning of the quotation in terms of what constitutes true wealth, and then connect it to present-day relevance in personal life, public service ethics, governance and sustainable citizenship.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Begin on how modern society equates wealth with accumulation, while the quote reframes wealth as inner freedom through limited desires.
• Meaning: Explain how “few wants” reflects virtues like contentment, temperance, and freedom from greed.
• Relevance: Link the quote to present issues such as ethical conduct in public life, lifestyle-driven corruption, mental stress from consumerism, inequality, and environmental responsibility.
Conclusion End with a forward-looking message that true prosperity in a democracy lies in ethical self-governance and responsible living, not endless consumption.