“Whatever is the right as a man is also the right of another; and it becomes my duty to guarantee as well as to possess”. -Thomas Paine
Kartavya Desk Staff
Q7. What does the following quotation convey to you in the present context? (10 M)
“Whatever is the right as a man is also the right of another; and it becomes my duty to guarantee as well as to possess”. –Thomas Paine
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question: It explores the intersection of individual rights and moral responsibility, especially in the context of rising intolerance, social exclusion, and ethical duties in public and civic life. Key Demand of the question: Explain the ethical meaning of the quote by Thomas Paine and examine its applicability in today’s governance, social life, and public ethics while evaluating its role in protecting the rights of others. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly define the essence of the quote — the idea that rights are universal and come with the moral duty to protect them for others. Body: Meaning of the quotation: Discuss ethical universality, reciprocity of rights and duties, moral conscience, and collective dignity. Relevance in present context: Connect it with issues like protection of marginalised rights, public service ethics, free speech, digital privacy, and inclusive governance. Conclusion: Assert that safeguarding others’ rights is the truest test of ethical citizenship and a foundational value for any just society.
Why the question: It explores the intersection of individual rights and moral responsibility, especially in the context of rising intolerance, social exclusion, and ethical duties in public and civic life.
Key Demand of the question: Explain the ethical meaning of the quote by Thomas Paine and examine its applicability in today’s governance, social life, and public ethics while evaluating its role in protecting the rights of others.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction: Briefly define the essence of the quote — the idea that rights are universal and come with the moral duty to protect them for others.
• Meaning of the quotation: Discuss ethical universality, reciprocity of rights and duties, moral conscience, and collective dignity.
• Relevance in present context: Connect it with issues like protection of marginalised rights, public service ethics, free speech, digital privacy, and inclusive governance.
Conclusion: Assert that safeguarding others’ rights is the truest test of ethical citizenship and a foundational value for any just society.