Date of Commencement
25th June 2024
Mode
CLASSROOM & LIVE-Online
Duration
16 Weeks
Fees
RS 54,000 incl. GST
About UPSC Philosophy Optional
Philosophy, which comes from the Greek words for “love” (philo) and “wisdom” (sophia), is essentially about having a deep appreciation for knowledge and understanding the world around us. It’s a subject that’s particularly suited for those who are naturally curious. Because philosophy forms the basis of many other academic fields, it’s often referred to as the “parent of all disciplines.”
When it comes to exams like the UPSC, the Philosophy syllabus is notably smaller compared to other optional subjects. But despite its size, it’s well-organized and straightforward. Paper I and Paper II are designed to complement each other, making it easier to grasp the full scope of the curriculum in a relatively short period.
Studying philosophy goes beyond just earning marks. It can actually be quite beneficial for papers like General Studies Paper IV: Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude, and the Essay Paper, where philosophical ideas are becoming increasingly relevant. Philosophy encourages critical thinking and helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of life, making them more perceptive, independent, and creative.
The topics covered in Paper II of Philosophy often overlap with those in the Essay Paper, touching on issues like democracy, justice, the environment, corruption, gender, religion, and caste. By studying philosophy, aspirants can gain valuable insights that will not only aid them in answering interview questions thoughtfully but also in becoming effective administrators in the future.
Is Philosophy a scoring subject in UPSC?
The choice of an optional subject holds considerable sway over the preparation process and eventual success in exams. Therefore, it’s crucial not to follow the crowd when selecting an optional subject. Instead, one should make a thoughtful and informed decision, choosing based on personal strengths and interests. As such, aspirants should act independently and choose their optional subject after careful reflection, rather than simply imitating others. In this context, Philosophy stands out as a noteworthy option, as it can offer various avenues for success.
Is Philosophy a good Optional Subject for UPSC?
Philosophy stands out as an extremely scoring optional subject for UPSC exams, with numerous students consistently securing top ranks by choosing it. From its inception, Philosophy has maintained its reputation as one of the highest-scoring subjects. Additionally, its unique nature allows students to excel not only in Philosophy but also in Ethics, Essay Writing, and the Personality Test.
To score well in Philosophy, it’s imperative for students to develop a deep understanding of the syllabus topics. Despite the limited time available to aspirants, Philosophy offers a distinct advantage with its concise syllabus, which remains static and doesn’t require frequent updates. This enables students to cover the entire syllabus thoroughly and efficiently.
Beyond acquiring knowledge, the key to scoring high lies in the ability to execute one’s understanding effectively. Answering questions with critical thinking, balanced judgment, logical consistency, and intellectual integrity is crucial. Philosophy not only enhances these skills but also improves students’ thinking, writing, and communication abilities, resulting in high marks across all Mains Papers and the Personality Test.
Moreover, Philosophy goes beyond exam success; it shapes aspirants into competent civil servants with a strong moral compass. It instills values of integrity and probity, guiding aspirants to serve society selflessly. Civil Services, viewed as a way of life, require a deep understanding of philosophical principles, as embodied in the Constitution of India. As students of Philosophy, aspirants become students of life, striving to uphold the ideals of service and contribute meaningfully to the well-being of society.