Paragraph:
We take it for granted now that science has a social responsibility.
The idea would not have occurred to Newton or Galileo. They thought of science as an account of the world as it is, and the only responsibility that they acknowledged was to tell the truth. The idea that science is a social enterprise is modern, and it begins at the industrial revolution. We are surprised that we cannot trace a social sense further back, because we nurse the illusion that the industrial revolution ended a golden age.
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the thinking of the author about the science?
a) Science must value the commitment of the scientists.
b) Science is a product of civilized society and must be used for the promotion of scientific awareness in people.
c) Industrial revolution was made possible by the advancements in science.
d) Science must pursue truth but be responsible for social welfare.
Correct answer: d) Science must pursue truth but be responsible for social welfare.
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 CSAT
Explanation :
1. Key points from the paragraph:
– In the past (Newton, Galileo’s time), science was only seen as a way to describe the world
– The only responsibility scientists felt then was to tell the truth
– The idea of science having social responsibility emerged during the industrial revolution
– This change surprises us because we wrongly think the industrial revolution ended a better era
2. Looking at the options:
a) “Science must value the commitment of scientists” – Not mentioned in the passage
b) “Science is a product of civilized society…” – Not discussed in the passage
c) “Industrial revolution was made possible…” – The passage actually discusses how industrial revolution brought social responsibility to science, not the other way around
d) “Science must pursue truth but be responsible for social welfare” – This captures both aspects discussed: the original focus on truth (from Newton/Galileo’s time) and the modern social responsibility
3. Option d) best reflects the author’s thinking because:
– It acknowledges the historical aspect of pursuing truth
– It includes the modern view of social responsibility
– It combines both elements the passage presents as important