Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Equality – NCERT Solutions & Exam Guide

Exercises

1. Some people argue that inequality is natural while others maintain that it is equality which is natural and the inequalities which we notice around us are created by society. Which view do you support? Give reasons.

Answer: I support the view that equality is natural and inequalities are created by society. All human beings share common humanity and must be treated with equal respect. Social and economic inequalities arise from customs, traditions, or unjust practices—not natural differences. Many inequalities exist due to societal arrangements and can be changed.

2. There is a view that absolute economic equality is neither possible nor desirable. It is argued that the most a society can do is to try and reduce the gaps between the richest and poorest members of society. Do you agree?

Answer: Yes, absolute economic equality is neither possible nor desirable because people have different interests, talents, abilities, and ambitions. However, to reduce extreme economic gaps, providing equal opportunities and minimizing undue hardships is necessary for social justice and harmony.

3. Match the following concepts with appropriate instances:

4. A government report on farmers’ problems says that small and marginal farmers cannot get good prices from the market. It recommends that the government should intervene to ensure a better price but only for small and marginal farmers. Is this recommendation consistent with the principle of equality?

Answer: Yes, this recommendation is consistent with the principle of equality. It aims to remove disadvantages and ensure fair opportunities for small and marginal farmers who are not in an equal position compared to large farmers. Affirmative action helps achieve substantive equality.

5. Which of the following violate the principles of equality? And why?

• (a) Every child in class will read the text of the play by turn.
  Answer: Does not violate equality, as everyone gets an equal chance.
• (b) The Government of Canada encouraged white Europeans to migrate to Canada from the end of the Second World War till 1960.
  Answer: Violates equality due to discrimination on the basis of race.
• (c) There is a separate railway reservation counter for the senior citizens.
  Answer: Does not violate equality. It is a justifiable special arrangement for an identifiable needy group.
• (d) Access to some forest areas is reserved for certain tribal communities.
  Answer: Does not violate equality. This is affirmative action to protect tribal rights and culture.

6. Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women. Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.

• (a) Women are our mothers. We shall not disrespect our mothers by denying them the right to vote.
  Answer: Not consistent. This is based on respect, not on equality as citizens.
• (b) Decisions of the government affect women as well as men, therefore they also should have a say in choosing the rulers.
  Answer: Consistent. It is based on equality, as both are equally affected by government decisions.
• (c) Not granting women the right to vote will cause disharmony in the family.
  Answer: Not consistent. This focuses on social harmony, not equal rights.
• (d) Women constitute half of humanity. You cannot subjugate them for long by denying them the right to vote.
  Answer: Consistent. It is based on the principle of equal rights for all humans.

NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Equality – Key Concepts

In NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Equality, you explore how equality shapes society and why it is a fundamental ideal. Understanding political, social, and economic dimensions of equality is crucial for exam success and builds a strong foundation in the subject.

This chapter clarifies the difference between natural and socially-produced inequalities. Using key facts, tables, and examples, it helps learners make informed arguments and write high-scoring answers in Political Science exams.

Reviewing chapter-wise solutions for Equality regularly enhances comprehension and boosts retention for board exams. Focus on real-life applications and practice writing concise, well-structured answers for better results.