Essays: November 2023 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Essay 1

Girls are Weighed Down by Restrictions, Boys With Demands — Two Equally Harmful Disciplines

["Empowering Women is a Prerequisite for Creating a Good Nation" — Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam]

Societal expectations and norms have historically played a significant role in shaping the lives of individuals, especially concerning gender. Throughout history, girls and boys have been assigned distinct roles and responsibilities, leading to the perpetuation of gender stereotypes and inequalities. While it is evident that both genders face challenges.

Girls have long been subjected to a plethora of societal expectations, many of which restrict their freedom and opportunities. From a young age, they are often taught to be obedient, nurturing, and accommodating. These expectations can stifle their ambitions and limit their choices. In many parts of the world, girls still face barriers to education. Discriminatory practices and traditional beliefs that prioritize boys' education over girls' limit girls' access to quality learning environments, ultimately restricting their intellectual growth.

Cultural and religious restrictions on girls are pervasive and have been a longstanding issue in many societies around the world. These restrictions are deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, customs, and religious interpretations, and they often limit the autonomy and opportunities available to girls. 

In some cultures and religious communities, arranged or forced marriages are common. Girls are often married off at a young age, sometimes against their will, and are denied the right to choose their own partners. This practice can have serious consequences for their physical and emotional well-being.

Female Genital Mutilation is a harmful cultural practice prevalent in certain communities, particularly in parts of Africa, Middle East, and Asia. It involves the partial or complete removal of a girl's external genitalia and is usually performed without her consent. It has serious health implications and violates girls' bodily integrity.

Strict dress codes and modesty rules are often imposed on girls and women by many cultures and religions. These restrictions are often enforced to require the covering of their bodies, including their hair and faces, in order to adhere to perceived notions of purity and virtue.

Limited access to quality education for girls is often prioritized over boys' education by some societal norms and beliefs. Their intellectual development and future opportunities can be severely hindered by this restriction.

Specific gender roles and responsibilities within the household are often assigned to females. This may entail expectations for girls to engage in domestic chores and take care of younger siblings, potentially constraining their capacity to pursue education and other interests.

In certain societies, girls may face restrictions on their mobility and freedom to travel independently. This limitation can impede their access to educational and economic opportunities and hinder their personal development. A report published by the United Nations titled Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): The Gender Snapshot 2022 indicates that it may take close to 300 years for full gender equality to be achieved.

The issue of limited or no inheritance and property rights for girls is a significant concern in certain cultural and societal contexts. Within these specific cultures and religious traditions, girls often find themselves in a precarious situation, as they may not have the legal or customary entitlement to inherit property or assets. This situation can have profound implications for their financial security and overall well-being. When girls are denied the right to inherit property, they face a greater risk of financial vulnerability. This vulnerability can manifest in various ways, such as limited access to economic resources, reduced bargaining power within the family, and a heightened dependence on male family members for financial support.

The concept of "family honor" is tied to the behavior and actions of girls and women in certain cultures. Violence, including honor killings, can be triggered by any perceived transgressions of these norms and is often justified as a means to restore family honor. This practice is deeply ingrained in the societal fabric, perpetuating a cycle of violence against women and girls. Efforts to address this issue should focus on challenging and changing these harmful norms while ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.

Restrictions on girls' autonomy and choices can be justified in some religious communities through conservative interpretations of religious texts. These interpretations may give precedence to adhering to religious norms over individual freedoms. Religion plays an important role in demarcation of societal norms and societal expectations.

Having discussed the constraints imposed on girls, it is pertinent to shift our focus to the challenges faced by boys.Boys are burdened by societal expectations and norms that impose a multitude of pressures and demands on them, spanning a broad spectrum of responsibilities and behaviors that society anticipates them to adhere to.

They are often encouraged to perform exceptionally well in their studies, with an emphasis on achieving high grades. This pressure begins early in their educational journey and continues throughout their schooling. The expectation is that they will excel in subjects such as mathematics and science, as well as other areas considered vital for future success.

From a young age, boys are exposed to career role models and societal messages that highlight certain professions as more desirable or prestigious. These careers may include fields such as engineering, medicine, law, or finance. Boys may feel compelled to pursue these paths to meet societal expectations.

In many cultures, there exists a significant emphasis on financial stability and success as an expectation for boys. They are frequently instructed to pursue careers that not only ensure a comfortable income for themselves but also secure financial stability for their future families. In some societies, traditional gender roles dictate that men are the primary breadwinners for their families. This further reinforces the expectation that boys should pursue careers that are financially lucrative.

Societal expectations and norms have undeniably played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of individuals, particularly concerning gender. Throughout history, these expectations have molded distinct roles and responsibilities for girls and boys, perpetuating entrenched gender stereotypes and inequalities. 

Recognizing the distinct challenges faced by both girls and boys is fundamental, and gender equality brings about a multitude of benefits for everyone. To achieve this, we must actively challenge societal norms, foster inclusive environments, and passionately advocate for equal rights and opportunities. Breaking free from the constraints of historical expectations not only enables individuals to pursue their aspirations but also empowers them to contribute significantly to their communities. Removing restrictions from girls and redefining expectations for boys are indispensable steps toward creating a truly equitable society, underpinning human rights, social progress, and sustainable development.

["Gender Equality is Not a Women's Issue, It's a Human Issue. It Affects Us All."]

Essay 2

Education is What Remains after One has Forgotten What One has Learned in School

["Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel." —Socrates]

"Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school" invites us to explore the profound distinction between the act of learning within the classroom and the enduring essence of education. While formal schooling equips us with knowledge and skills, true education transcends the boundaries of curriculum and textbooks. It encompasses a lifelong journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and the application of wisdom acquired from various sources. 

Schools and educational institutions serve as essential foundations for acquiring knowledge, skills, and socialization. They offer structured environments where individuals are exposed to a wide range of subjects, fostering intellectual growth and critical thinking. The formal education system is designed to impart a standardized body of knowledge, laying the groundwork for students to navigate the complexities of the world.

In school, we learn mathematics, science, literature, history, and a myriad of other subjects that provide us with a solid academic foundation. We are introduced to teachers and mentors who guide us, imparting knowledge, and nurturing our intellectual development. Furthermore, the classroom environment fosters interpersonal skills, teamwork, and cooperation, all of which are essential in the real world.

Knowledge acquired in school is not an end in itself but rather a means to an end. Over time, the specific facts, equations, dates, and details we learn in school may fade from our memory. What endures, though, is the capacity to think critically, solve problems, and adapt to new challenges. This enduring aspect of education transcends the confines of formal education.

Consider, for instance, a student who learns a complex mathematical theorem in school. Years later, they might not remember the exact formula or method, but they retain the ability to approach mathematical problems with a logical mindset. The essence of their mathematical education remains, despite the fading of specific knowledge.

True education extends beyond the classroom and continues throughout one's life. It is a commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement. In a rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and learn continuously is a valuable asset. The skills acquired through formal education provide a foundation upon which individuals can build throughout their lives.

Faraday, born into poverty without formal education, gained scientific knowledge while working as a bookbinder. He read up on a lot of science and  took initiative, independently discovering electromagnetism, inventing the Bunsen burner, finding benzene, and creating the first electric motor and generator. His self-driven pursuits led him to become one of the most significant scientists in history.

Lifelong learners actively seek out new knowledge, skills, and experiences. They engage in reading, exploration, and self-reflection. They embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and view failures as valuable learning experiences. This pursuit of lifelong learning allows individuals to remain adaptable and relevant in an ever-evolving society.

One of the most significant aspects of education beyond school is self-discovery. As we venture into the world and engage with various experiences, we uncover our passions, strengths, and weaknesses. We learn about our values, beliefs, and aspirations, which shape our identity and guide our life choices.

This process of self-discovery is often facilitated by exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures. Travel, interactions with people from different backgrounds, and engagement with the arts and humanities all contribute to a broader understanding of the world and ourselves. Education, in this sense, is not just about acquiring external knowledge but also about gaining insights into our inner selves.

Informal education, which occurs outside of formal institutions, plays a pivotal role in shaping individuals' lives. It encompasses a wide array of experiences, including mentorship, self-study, travel, volunteering, and participation in hobbies and interests. Informal education allows individuals to pursue their passions, develop unique skills, and gain practical knowledge that may not be covered in traditional classrooms.

A person interested in photography might take courses, read books, and practice extensively to become a skilled photographer. The knowledge and expertise gained in this informal educational journey are often more valuable than any formal degree. Similarly, mentorship from experienced individuals in a particular field can provide valuable insights and guidance that transcend what can be learned from textbooks alone.

Education, whether acquired in school or beyond, equips individuals with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for navigating the complexities of life, making informed decisions, and addressing the challenges that arise.

Critical thinking involves the ability to evaluate information, assess its validity, and make reasoned judgments. It encourages individuals to question assumptions, consider multiple perspectives, and arrive at well-informed conclusions. This skill is invaluable in a world filled with misinformation and rapidly changing circumstances.

Problem-solving, on the other hand, is the capacity to identify challenges, develop strategies, and implement solutions. It is not limited to academic problems but extends to real-world issues in various domains, such as business, healthcare, and social justice. The ability to approach problems systematically and creatively is a hallmark of an educated individual.

Beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills, education also fosters empathy and a deeper understanding of others. Exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences allows individuals to empathize with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This empathy is essential for building inclusive and compassionate societies.

Consider the impact of literature and storytelling on our capacity for empathy. Reading novels that explore the lives and experiences of characters from different walks of life can expand our understanding of human diversity and foster empathy for individuals facing challenges or adversity. Similarly, engaging with history and the stories of different cultures can lead to a greater appreciation for the richness of human experiences.

Education, in its truest sense, empowers individuals to become active and responsible citizens. Informed citizens are better equipped to participate in the democratic process, engage in civic activities, and advocate for positive change in society.

Beyond the classroom, education encourages individuals to stay informed about current events, social issues, and political developments. It inspires them to take action to address societal challenges, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or community engagement. An educated populace is essential for the functioning of a just and equitable society.

Education empowers with critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. It fosters self-discovery, empathy, and social responsibility, reaching beyond formal institutions to include informal learning, mentorship, and personal pursuits. In a rapidly changing world, the significance of lifelong learning cannot be emphasized enough

[“Education is Not the Learning of Facts, But the Training of the Mind to Think,” —Albert Einstein]