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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20131 Marks
Q17.

susceptible

How to Approach

This question requires defining the term "susceptible" and elaborating on its implications across various domains relevant to the UPSC syllabus – polity, economy, society, and international relations. The answer should demonstrate an understanding of vulnerability and risk, providing examples to illustrate the concept. A structured approach, covering different facets of susceptibility, is crucial. Focus on how susceptibility impacts stability, security, and development.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The term "susceptible" denotes a capacity to be affected or harmed by something; a vulnerability to a particular influence or attack. In the context of complex systems like nations, economies, and societies, susceptibility refers to the degree to which they are vulnerable to internal and external shocks, stresses, and pressures. Recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, have starkly highlighted the susceptibility of global supply chains, energy security, and economic stability. Understanding susceptibility is crucial for effective policymaking and risk mitigation.

Understanding Susceptibility: A Multifaceted Concept

Susceptibility isn't merely about weakness; it's about the interplay of factors that increase the likelihood and severity of negative outcomes. It manifests differently across various domains:

1. Political Susceptibility

  • Fragile States: Countries with weak institutions, corruption, and lack of rule of law are highly susceptible to political instability, civil unrest, and external interference. Examples include Somalia, Yemen, and Afghanistan.
  • Democratic Backsliding: Even established democracies can be susceptible to erosion of democratic norms, rise of populism, and authoritarian tendencies. The increasing polarization in the US and the rise of illiberal democracies in Europe demonstrate this.
  • External Interference: Nations susceptible to foreign influence through disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, or economic coercion face threats to their sovereignty and democratic processes.

2. Economic Susceptibility

  • Dependence on Commodities: Economies heavily reliant on a single commodity (e.g., oil, minerals) are susceptible to price fluctuations and external shocks. Nigeria’s economy, heavily dependent on oil, is a prime example.
  • Debt Vulnerability: High levels of external debt make countries susceptible to economic crises, currency devaluation, and austerity measures. Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis is a stark illustration.
  • Global Supply Chain Disruptions: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the susceptibility of global supply chains to disruptions, leading to shortages and inflation.
  • Climate Change Impacts: Agricultural economies are particularly susceptible to climate change impacts like droughts, floods, and changing weather patterns.

3. Social Susceptibility

  • Inequality and Marginalization: Societies with high levels of income inequality and social exclusion are susceptible to social unrest and conflict.
  • Communal Tensions: Societies with deep-rooted ethnic or religious divisions are susceptible to communal violence and polarization.
  • Public Health Crises: Populations with limited access to healthcare, poor sanitation, and inadequate nutrition are susceptible to infectious diseases and pandemics.
  • Disinformation and Radicalization: Societies with low levels of media literacy and critical thinking skills are susceptible to the spread of disinformation and radical ideologies.

4. Environmental Susceptibility

  • Climate Change Vulnerability: Small island developing states (SIDS) are particularly susceptible to sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and loss of biodiversity.
  • Resource Depletion: Regions facing water scarcity, deforestation, and soil degradation are susceptible to environmental degradation and conflict.
  • Natural Disasters: Countries located in disaster-prone zones (e.g., earthquake zones, cyclone belts) are susceptible to the devastating impacts of natural disasters.

5. Technological Susceptibility

  • Cybersecurity Threats: Nations with weak cybersecurity infrastructure are susceptible to cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure, financial systems, and government networks.
  • Digital Divide: Populations with limited access to digital technologies are susceptible to being left behind in the digital economy.
  • Artificial Intelligence Risks: Societies are increasingly susceptible to the ethical and societal challenges posed by the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
Domain Factors Increasing Susceptibility Examples
Political Weak institutions, corruption, external interference Syria, Myanmar
Economic Commodity dependence, high debt, supply chain disruptions Venezuela, Lebanon
Social Inequality, communal tensions, public health vulnerabilities South Africa, India (certain regions)
Environmental Climate change, resource depletion, natural disasters Bangladesh, Maldives

Conclusion

Susceptibility is an inherent characteristic of complex systems, but its degree can be significantly influenced by policy choices and proactive measures. Building resilience – strengthening institutions, diversifying economies, promoting social inclusion, investing in climate adaptation, and enhancing cybersecurity – is crucial for mitigating vulnerabilities and fostering sustainable development. Recognizing and addressing susceptibility is not merely about avoiding negative outcomes; it’s about creating a more secure, equitable, and prosperous future for all.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Resilience
The capacity of a system, community, or society to withstand and recover from adversity.
Vulnerability Assessment
The process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating the vulnerability of a system or community to specific hazards or threats.

Key Statistics

According to the World Bank, approximately 49% of the global population lives in countries highly vulnerable to climate change impacts (as of 2021).

Source: World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal

Global cybersecurity spending is projected to reach $476.46 billion in 2024, highlighting the growing concern about technological susceptibility (Source: Gartner, 2023).

Source: Gartner

Examples

The Dutch Delta Works

The Netherlands, highly susceptible to flooding due to its low-lying geography, has invested heavily in the Delta Works – a series of dams, dikes, and storm surge barriers – to protect its population and economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Is susceptibility always negative?

Not necessarily. Recognizing susceptibility can be a catalyst for positive change, prompting proactive measures to build resilience and mitigate risks. It’s a crucial first step in effective planning and policymaking.

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