Q1. In the context of polity, which one of the following would you accept as the most appropriate definition of liberty?
Explanation
Liberty is generally understood not as the absence of restraint or mere freedom to do whatever one likes, but as the freedom to develop one’s full potential within the framework of laws and rights that ensure the same freedom for others. This idea aligns with the concept of positive liberty, which is the ability to act in ways that allow personal and collective growth, while also respecting the freedoms of others.
Exam tip:
Break down the options using two filters: Is it positive or negative in tone? Is it balanced or extreme?
Option A, Sounds reactive and negative — liberty as shield, not as freedom. Also narrow — only about political rulers.
Option B, Feels absolute, like no rules at all(negative tone). That’s not liberty — that’s anarchy. Similarly Option C, disguised as liberty but actually promoting lawlessness(negative tone).
Option D, Balanced + Empowering = Hence, Most appropriate
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2019
(d) Opportunity to develop oneself fully
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Preamble?
This page covers 1 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Preamble (Polity), asked from 1997 to 2021. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for Preamble?
Questions on Preamble (Polity) are available for 7 years, from 1997 to 2021. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
