FYUG Even Semester Exam 2025: Philosophy (Ethics-I Indian) Paper Code: PHIDSC-151

Subject: Philosophy

Course No: PHIDSC-151 (Ethics-I Indian)

Semester: 2nd Semester (FYUG)

Full Marks: 70

Time Duration: As per University norms

UNIT-I

Question 1 (a) [2 Marks]

What is the meaning of 'Ethics' in Indian perspective?

[span_7](start_span)
Ethics in the Indian perspective, often referred to as 'Nitishastra', signifies the science of conduct or the art of living a righteous life guided by Dharma.[span_7](end_span)

It encompasses the moral principles and values that regulate human behavior to achieve harmony within oneself and society.

Question 1 (b) [2 Marks]

What is the meaning of Rna in Vedic Ethics?

[span_11](start_span)

In Vedic Ethics, 'Rna' refers to the fundamental spiritual and social debts or obligations an individual is born with.[span_11](end_span) There are typically three primary debts: Deva-rna (to gods), Rishi-rna (to sages/teachers), and Pitri-rna (to ancestors).

Question 1 (c) [2 Marks]

Define the Law of Karma, according to Vedic Ethics.

[span_15](start_span)
The Law of Karma is the principle of moral causation which states that every action (Karma) produces a corresponding result (Phala).[span_15](end_span)

It suggests that "as you sow, so shall you reap," ensuring that moral efforts are never lost and moral failures are always accounted for.

Question 2 [10 Marks]

Option A

Explain the nature and scope of Ethics from the Indian perspective.

Definition: Indian Ethics is essentially the study of Dharma, the moral law that sustains the individual and the universe.

Nature:

  • Theocentric and Cosmic: It is not just human-centric but views morality as part of the cosmic order (Rta).
  • Practical: It focuses on the realization of the ultimate goal of life (Moksha) rather than just theoretical debate.
    • [span_22](start_span)
  • Integral: It integrates individual duties (Svadharma) with social welfare.[span_22](end_span)

Scope:

  • Varnashrama Dharma: Covers social duties based on one's stage of life and social classification.
  • Purusharthas: Covers the four ends of life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.
  • Sadharana Dharma: Universal virtues like non-violence, truth, and self-control applicable to all.
Option B

Discuss the concept of Rta as found in the Vedic Ethics.

Definition: Rta is the physical and moral order of the universe found in the Rig Veda.

Explanation:

  • Cosmic Order: It regulates the cycles of nature, such as the rising of the sun and the seasons.
  • Moral Order: It represents the truth and justice that humans must follow.
  • Guardian: Varuna is considered the supreme guardian of Rta.

Significance: Following Rta leads to prosperity and harmony, while violating it leads to chaos and suffering. It is the precursor to the later concept of Dharma.

UNIT-II

Question 3 (a) [2 Marks]

Define the terms 'Sreyas' and 'Preyas' as per Indian Ethics.

  • Sreyas: The "Good" or "Beneficial" path that leads to spiritual growth and ultimate liberation.
  • Preyas: The "Pleasant" path that provides immediate sensory gratification but is transient.

Question 3 (b) [2 Marks]

What is Swadharma?

[span_37](start_span)

Swadharma refers to an individual's own duty or inherent nature-based moral obligation.[span_37](end_span) [span_39](start_span)It suggests that performing one's own duty, even if imperfectly, is better than performing another's duty well.[span_39](end_span)

Question 3 (c) [2 Marks]

What is the concept of Niskama Karma in Bhagavad Gita?

Niskama Karma means performing one's duty without any desire for the fruits or results of that action.

Formula: Action = Duty; Attachment = 0.

Question 4 [10 Marks]

Option A

Explain Purusartha as a moral ideal in Indian Ethics.

The Purusharthas are the four goals of human life that provide a balanced framework for moral and spiritual development.

[span_48](start_span)
Goal Meaning Ethical Role
Dharma Righteousness/Duty The guiding principle for all other goals.
Artha Wealth/Prosperity Necessary for survival, must be earned via Dharma.
Kama Desire/Pleasure Legitimate emotional and physical fulfillment.[span_48](end_span)
Moksha Liberation The ultimate spiritual end and freedom from rebirth.

Conclusion: These goals ensure a holistic life where material needs and spiritual aspirations are harmonized under the umbrella of morality.

Option B

Discuss the ethical duties according to the four Varnas and four Asramas.

Varna Dharma (Social Duties):

  • Brahmin: Teaching, learning, and priesthood.
  • Kshatriya: Protection, administration, and valor.
  • Vaishya: Agriculture, trade, and cattle rearing.
  • Shudra: Service to the other three classes.

Ashrama Dharma (Stages of Life):

  • Brahmacharya: Student life focused on education and celibacy.
  • Grihastha: Householder life focused on family and social duties.
  • Vanaprastha: Retirement and gradual withdrawal from worldly affairs.
  • Sannyasa: Complete renunciation for spiritual realization.

UNIT-III

Question 5 (a) [2 Marks]

Significance of Noble Eight Fold Path (Astangakamarga) in Buddhist Ethics.

[span_56](start_span)

The Eight Fold Path provides a practical guide for ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom, ultimately leading to the cessation of suffering (Nirvana).[span_56](end_span)

Question 5 (b) [2 Marks]

What is the highest good in Carvaka Ethics?

[span_59](start_span)

In Carvaka Ethics, the highest good (Summum Bonum) is Kama or the attainment of maximum sensual pleasure in this life.[span_59](end_span)

Question 5 (c) [2 Marks]

Carvaka view on the law of Karma and rebirth.

Carvaka rejects the law of Karma and rebirth. They believe that consciousness ends with the destruction of the body, and there is no soul that transmigrates.

Question 6 [10 Marks]

Option A

Explain the Pancasila (five precepts) in Buddhism.

The Pancasila are the basic ethical codes followed by lay Buddhists:

  1. Ahimsa: To refrain from killing living beings.
  2. Adinnadana: To refrain from taking what is not given (stealing).
  3. Kamesu micchacara: To refrain from sexual misconduct.
  4. Musavada: To refrain from false speech (lying).
  5. Surameraya: To refrain from intoxicating drinks and drugs.

Importance: They serve as a moral foundation to purify the mind, maintain social harmony, and progress toward spiritual enlightenment.

Option B

What is Anuvrata? Explain the different Anuvratas in Jaina Ethics.

Anuvrata refers to the "Small Vows" intended for Jaina laypeople (householders). They are less rigorous versions of the Mahavratas (Great Vows) followed by monks.

The Five Anuvratas:

  • Ahimsanuvrata: Limited non-violence (avoiding intentional killing).
  • Satyanuvrata: Refraining from gross lies.
  • Achauriyanuvrata: Not taking others' property by theft.
  • Brahmacharyanuvrata: Chastity (fidelity to one's spouse).
  • Aparigrahanuvrata: Limiting worldly possessions.

UNIT-IV

Question 7 (a) [2 Marks]

What is the meaning of 'Yoga'?

Etymologically, Yoga comes from the Sanskrit root 'Yuj', meaning to join or unite. In Patanjali's system, it is defined as "Chitta Vritti Nirodha" — the cessation of the modifications of the mind.

Question 7 (b) [2 Marks]

How does 'Asana' contribute to the practice of Astanga Yoga?

[span_76](start_span)

Asana (Physical Postures) provides a steady and comfortable state for the body.[span_76](end_span) [span_78](start_span)It ensures physical health and stability, which is essential for the higher stages of meditation and concentration.[span_78](end_span)

Question 7 (c) [2 Marks]

How does Kamya Karma relate to personal desires in Mimamsa Ethics?

[span_81](start_span)

Kamya Karma refers to actions or rituals performed specifically for the fulfillment of certain personal desires or worldly benefits, such as wealth or entry into heaven.[span_81](end_span)

Question 8 [10 Marks]

Option A

Analyze the seven principles of Yoga and their contribution to holistic development.

(Note: Usually Yoga follows the Eight Limbs/Astanga. Based on context, we analyze the path of development):

  • Ethical Foundation: Yama and Niyama purify external behavior and internal discipline.
    • [span_85](start_span)
  • Physical/Vital Health: Asana and Pranayama regulate the body and breath (energy).[span_85](end_span)
  • Mental Control: Pratyahara (withdrawal) and Dharana (concentration) stabilize the mind.
  • Spiritual Realization: Dhyana (meditation) leads to Samadhi (oneness).

Contribution: This systematic approach ensures physical fitness, emotional balance, intellectual clarity, and spiritual peace.

Option B

Analyze the classification of Nitya, Naimittika, and Kamya Karma in Mimamsa.

[span_95](start_span)[span_97](start_span)
Karma Type Description Ethical Significance
Nitya Daily obligatory duties (e.g., Sandhyavandana). Maintenance of moral and spiritual order.
Naimittika Occasional duties performed on special events (e.g., birth rituals). Social and ceremonial bonding.
Kamya Desire-driven actions (e.g., sacrifices for prosperity).[span_95](end_span) Fulfillment of legitimate human aspirations.[span_97](end_span)

UNIT-V

Question 9 (a) [2 Marks]

What does Gandhiji mean by Ahimsa?

To Gandhi, Ahimsa is not just non-killing; it is positive love and goodwill toward all living beings. It is the refusal to do harm in thought, word, or deed.

Question 9 (b) [2 Marks]

Name of a Tagore's literary work that reflects humanistic ideal.

Gitanjali (or The Religion of Man) deeply reflects Tagore's humanistic ideals and his view of the divinity within humanity.

Question 9 (c) [2 Marks]

What is Tagore's Humanism?

Tagore's Humanism is the belief that the "Supreme Reality" is found within the "Human Truth." He emphasized the universal brotherhood of man and the manifestation of the infinite in the finite human.

Question 10 [10 Marks]

Option A

Main message of Swami Vivekananda's Practical Vedanta.

Practical Vedanta brings the high philosophy of the Upanishads into everyday life.

  • Divinity of Soul: Every soul is potentially divine.
  • Service as Worship: "Jiva is Shiva" — serving humanity is the highest form of worship.
  • Self-Confidence: Religion is the manifestation of the divinity already in man.
  • Fearlessness: Strength is life, weakness is death.

Message: Vedanta is not for the forest alone; it can be practiced in the kitchen, the office, and the battlefield to uplift society.

Option B

Explain the fundamental principles of Satyagraha by Mahatma Gandhi.

Satyagraha means "Truth-force" or "Soul-force."

  1. Satya (Truth): The ultimate goal; the soul's path.
    2. [span_117](start_span)
  2. Ahimsa (Non-violence): The only means to achieve the truth.[span_117](end_span)
  3. Tapasya (Self-suffering): Winning over the opponent by inviting suffering upon oneself rather than inflicting it on others.
  4. Fearlessness: A Satyagrahi must be free from the fear of death or loss.

Exam Focus Enhancements

Exam Tips

    [span_121](start_span)
  • In Indian Ethics, always link concepts to Dharma and Moksha.[span_121](end_span)
  • For Unit III, clearly distinguish between Buddhist (Pancasila) and Jaina (Anuvrata) ethics.

Common Mistakes

  • Confusing Nitya (daily) with Naimittika (occasional) duties in Mimamsa.
  • Describing Ahimsa only as a negative concept (not killing) instead of Gandhi's positive love.

Important Formulas List

  • Karma Phala = Result of Action
  • Chitta Vritti Nirodha = Yoga
  • Jiva = Shiva (Vivekananda's core tenet)