There is more than a modicum of truth in the assertion that "a working knowledge of ancient history is necessary to the intelligent interpretation of current events". But the sage who uttered these words of wisdom might well have added something on the benefits of studying particularly the famous battles of history for the lessons they contain for those of us who lead or aspire to leadership. Such a study will reveal certain qualities and attributes which enabled the winners to win—and certain deficiencies which caused the losers to lose and the student will see that the same pattern recurs consistently, again and again, throughout the centuries. 22 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS 47. With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made: 1. A study of the famous battles it history would help us understand the modern warfare. 2. Studying the history is essential in anyone who aspires to be a leader. Which of these assumptions is/are valid?
- A1 ONLY
- B2 ONLY
- CBOTH 1 AND 2
- DNEITHER 1 NOR 2Correct
Explanation
The passage highlights the benefits of studying famous battles for understanding leadership qualities and recurring patterns of success and failure.
-
A study of the famous battles in history would help us understand modern warfare. The passage focuses on the "lessons they contain for those of us who lead or aspire to leadership" and "qualities and attributes which enabled the winners to win—and certain deficiencies which caused the losers to lose." It emphasizes timeless leadership principles, not the technical or strategic understanding of "modern warfare" itself. Therefore, this assumption is not supported.
-
Studying history is essential in anyone who aspires to be a leader. The passage states there are "benefits of studying particularly the famous battles of history for the lessons they contain for those of us who lead or aspire to leadership." It mentions "benefits" of studying battles for leadership, not that studying history in general is "essential" for anyone aspiring to be a leader. The word "essential" is too strong and broad given the passage's focus on specific benefits from battles. Therefore, this assumption is not supported.
Since neither assumption is valid based on the passage, D is the correct answer.
Related questions
More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
Disruption of traditional institutions, identifications and loyalties is likely to lead to ambivalent situations. It is possible that some people may renew their identification with traditional groups…
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
Disruption of traditional institutions, identifications and loyalties is likely to lead to ambivalent situations. It is possible that some people may renew their identification with traditional groups…
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
We live in digital times. The digital is not just something we use strategically and specifically to do a few tasks. Our very perception of who we are, how we connect to the world around us, and the w…
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
The IMF has pointed out that the fast growing economies of Asia face the risk of falling into 'middle-income trap'. It means that average incomes in these countries, which till now have been growing r…
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
An innovative India will be inclusive as well as technologically advanced, improving the lives of all Indians. Innovation and R&D can mitigate increases in social inequality and relieve the pressures …
- Prelims 2017CSATReading Comprehension
Climate change is likely to expose a large number of people to increasing environmental risks forcing them to migrate. The international community is yet to recognize this new category of migrants. Th…