Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
6. What does this quote means to you? (150 words)
“Good means not merely not to do wrong, but rather not to desire to do wrong.” ― Democritus
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes Wednesdays’ in Mission-2023 Secure.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote and highlighting its core meaning.
Body:
Write about goodness is not only the absence of a wrongness of action but it is absence of wrong intentions/desires. Presence of wrong desires can lead to a wrong action.
Next, write a counter argument that merely having desires may not lead to bad actions. Cite examples to substantiate.
Conclusion:
Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote.
