GS4 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Ethics Case Study - 2 | UPSC Mains Answer Writing: Practice PDF Download

Q. “Desire, ignorance, and inequality—this is the trinity of bondage.” What does the given quotation mean to you in the present context?

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Introduction

• The trinity of bondage is a chain comprising strong desire, ignorance and inequality as three of its links—each leading to the next—in a circular chain that continues endlessly unless and until it is snapped.
• This trinity of bondage binds a person to his personal cause. By being a slave to desires, ignorance and inequality, the person may fail to direct his full and complete dedication to the society and just think for self gain.

Body
Relevance of the quote in the present context:

• Leads to Inner Freedom: This profound message from Swami Vivekandanda’s writings provides a good starting point to reflect on the dimensions of inner freedom. It urges one to take control (but not be a slave of the trinity) over ourselves and redirect our efforts to a healthy life.
• Ignorance is not always a bliss: It is said that ignorance is bliss but in public services being apathetic to people’s demand and doing nothing would not be ethically and morally right.
  • A self-desire and ignorance to the welfare of the people by the political leaders will ultimately lead to the fall of the political system and anarchy in any country.
• Inequality: The high income and social inequalities phenomenon experienced by many societies and countries may lead to discontent among the poor and those who are the lower strata of the society.
  • Such discontent among a section of society may ultimately lead to mal functioning and corruption. In this context, the public servants should not only aim at improving efficiency but also endeavour to attain equality and equity.
• We see people caring for numerous physical amenities and material things, but fulfillment of such material desires does not ensure mental well being.
  • A strong desire in public servants can lead to corruption, favouritism and other unethical practices.

Conclusion
If you think that you are bound, you remain bound; you make your own bondage. If you know that you are free, you are free this moment. This is knowledge, knowledge of freedom. We have to come out of the trinity of bondage and free ourselves to make a peaceful society.