UPSC Prelims 2017 · CSAT

Question 43: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “We live in digital times. The digital…” — Passage—3 · as printed by UPSC

Which among the following is the most logical and essential message conveyed by the above passage?

aAll problems of governance can be solved by using digital technologies.

bSpeaking of digital technologies is speaking of our life and living.

cOur creativity and imagination cannot be expressed without digital media.

dUse of digital systems is imperative for the existence of mankind in future.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).

The passage says the digital is not merely a tool: it shapes how we see ourselves, relate to the world, and organise life, work and language. It is everywhere yet barely noticed, and it forms the setting in which we understand self, society and governance. So the central message is that talking about digital technologies is talking about our life and living. The other options claim solving all governance problems, creativity needing digital media, or future survival, none of which is stated.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Not claimed: the digital shapes governance but is not said to solve all its problems.
(b) Correct: the digital is the condition and context of our lives, selves and society.
(c) The passage says the digital has reshaped lives, not that creativity cannot be expressed without it.
(d) Nothing is said about mankind's future existence depending on digital systems.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.