UPSC Prelims 2021 · CSAT
Question 72: Reading Comprehension
The idea which the first part of the passage mentions is
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
The first part says that most people regard deliberate lying as wrong, but allow that the truth sometimes does more harm than a lie. The point it raises is therefore the harm that telling the truth can do, a matter on which people's judgement may differ. That is the idea in option (d), disagreement about the harm in telling the truth. The second part moves to a different idea, lies in the loose use of words. Remember: identify which part of the passage the question refers to, and answer only from that part.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Agreement that deliberate lying is wrong is stated, but it is only the starting point; the key idea is the exception for harmful truth.
- (b) The passage does not describe disagreement about whether lying is wrong; it says most people agree.
- (c) Telling the truth is not what is disputed; the doubt is about when it causes harm.
- (d) Right per UPSC: the exception for cases where the truth does more harm is the idea the first part sets up.
Worth knowing: On a plain reading the first part states agreement that deliberate lying is wrong, which looks like option (a); UPSC's key is (d), so this answer is open to dispute.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2021, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.