UPSC Prelims 2012 · CSAT
Question 44: Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability
Consider the following statement : The Third World War, if it ever starts, will end very quickly with the possible end of civilization. It is only the misuse of nuclear power which will trigger it. Based on the above statement, which one of the following inferences is correct ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
The statement says a Third World War would be set off only by the misuse of nuclear power. So if such a war ever starts, nuclear power will have been used, which is inference (a). The end of civilization is stated only as a possibility, so (b) overstates it. Nothing says the growth of nuclear power destroys civilization over time, and the opening 'if it ever starts' leaves open that it may never happen, so (d) does not follow.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right. Only misuse of nuclear power can trigger the war, so if it starts nuclear power will be used.
- (b) Wrong. The end of civilization is only a possibility, not certain.
- (c) Wrong. The statement is about a sudden war, not the long-run effects of nuclear growth.
- (d) Wrong. The statement leaves open whether the war will take place.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2012, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.