Essay Previous Year Question Paper (2024) Section - A | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

Forests Precede Civilizations and Deserts Follow Them

The essay examines the critical relationship between forests, human civilizations, and environmental consequences, encapsulated in the phrase "forests precede civilizations and deserts follow them." Forests have historically been vital to the rise of civilizations, providing essential resources like food, shelter, timber, and fertile land for agriculture, as seen in ancient societies such as the Indus Valley, Egyptian, Mayan, Inca, and Aztec civilizations. These resources enabled the development of settlements, infrastructure, and cultural practices.
However, as civilizations expanded, their growing demand for land and resources led to widespread deforestation, disrupting ecosystems and causing soil erosion, desertification, and climate change. Historical examples, like the Roman Empire's decline due to deforestation-induced soil degradation and the Mayan civilization's collapse partly due to unsustainable agricultural practices, illustrate these impacts. Modern issues, such as desertification in the Sahel and dust storms in China and India, further highlight the consequences of environmental degradation driven by human activity.
While some argue that deforestation is necessary for economic progress and food production, the essay emphasizes that such practices are unsustainable. It advocates for a shift to a green economy through reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and responsible resource management to restore ecosystems and combat climate change. The quote, “The Earth is not ours to inherit, it is ours to borrow from our children,” underscores the need for stewardship to ensure thriving ecosystems for future generations. By prioritizing sustainability and forest preservation, humanity can foster a balanced coexistence with nature, securing a legacy of vibrant landscapes.

The Empires of the Future Will Be the Empires of the Mind

Winston Churchill’s quote, “The empires of the future are the empires of the mind,” redefines power in the modern era, shifting from traditional conquests of land and military strength to the dominance of intellectual capital. Historically, empires like those of Alexander the Great or the British Empire relied on territorial expansion and military might. However, in the 21st century, rapid technological advancements and global interconnectedness have transformed influence to center on knowledge, innovation, and creativity.
This shift is evident in the rise of knowledge-based economies, where intellectual property drives wealth and power. Silicon Valley’s tech giants, such as Apple, Google, and Meta, exemplify this, wielding global influence through ideas and innovation rather than physical territories. The human mind, with its capacity for creativity and critical thinking, fuels scientific, technological, and cultural advancements, forming the foundation of these new “empires.”
Politically, nations with strong education systems and cultural influence gain soft power, shaping global affairs through attraction rather than force. Economically, innovation and intellectual property drive growth, requiring investment in education and research. Socially, the internet and social media democratize knowledge, fostering inclusivity and enabling diverse voices to contribute to innovation.
Emerging technologies like AI, biotechnology, and nanotechnology further amplify the influence of intellectual empires, reshaping industries and societies. However, challenges like the digital divide, which limits access to technology, and the spread of misinformation threaten equitable progress and informed decision-making. Critical thinking and media literacy are vital to overcoming these hurdles.
As B.B. King said, “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” The empires of the mind, built on knowledge, creativity, and inclusivity, will shape a prosperous and sustainable future. By fostering intellectual freedom and innovation, humanity can create a world where ideas illuminate the path forward.

There is no Path to Happiness; Happiness is the Path

The essay explores the concept that "there is no path to happiness; happiness is the path," suggesting that happiness is not a distant goal but a way of living through mindfulness, gratitude, and connection. Illustrated by the joyful demeanor of a humble flower seller, the narrative challenges the modern notion that happiness stems from achieving milestones like wealth or status.
Drawing from Vedanta philosophy, the essay argues that true happiness, or Ananda, is an inherent quality of the Self, obscured by desires and attachments. Pursuing external goals often leads to a cycle of temporary pleasure and suffering. Instead, happiness is cultivated through self-awareness and detachment, recognizing the impermanence of material things and the ego.
Mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, provide tools to access this inner joy, while the Bhagavad Gita’s Karma Yoga emphasizes selfless action as a path to peace. Happiness is found in everyday moments—human connections, nature, and meaningful work. The example of Sudha Murty, who finds joy in philanthropy despite her wealth, highlights that true fulfillment comes from serving others, not accumulating possessions.
The essay also connects personal happiness to societal well-being, using Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of Swaraj to underscore the importance of inner transformation for social harmony. Gandhi’s belief in simplicity, non-violence, and service aligns with his quote, “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”
Ultimately, happiness is a lifelong journey of self-discovery and mindful living, not a destination tied to external achievements. By fostering inner peace and compassion, individuals can contribute to a more joyful, equitable, and sustainable world.

The Doubter is a True Man of Science

The essay argues that doubt is a fundamental pillar of scientific inquiry, as captured by the statement, "the doubter is a true man of science." Using Galileo Galilei’s defiance of the Church’s geocentric views as an example, it illustrates how skepticism, rooted in evidence and inquiry, drives scientific progress. Doubt underpins the scientific method, prompting scientists to question assumptions and seek alternative explanations, as seen in René Descartes’ methodic doubt, which aimed to establish truth by systematically questioning beliefs.
Skepticism fuels innovation by challenging established norms, as evidenced by Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, which revolutionized biology through rigorous questioning of conventional ideas. In today’s information-saturated world, doubt fosters critical thinking, enabling individuals to evaluate sources and combat misinformation, which is crucial for addressing issues like climate change and public health.
Doubt also enhances scientific discourse by encouraging collaboration and diverse perspectives, leading to interdisciplinary breakthroughs. While critics might argue that excessive doubt could paralyze decision-making in urgent situations like pandemics, the essay counters that informed skepticism ensures evidence-based actions, balancing caution with decisiveness.
The essay emphasizes that doubt coexists with trust in established knowledge, such as the laws of thermodynamics, maintaining a balance essential for progress. Richard Feynman’s quote, “The first principle is that you must not fool yourself—and you are the easiest person to fool,” underscores the need for self-scrutiny. By embracing doubt, science cultivates an environment of rigorous testing and refinement, driving innovation and deeper understanding of the world.