Read the given passage carefully and answer the following questions.
The division of society into male, female and transgender is believed to be natural and biological. But, in reality, there are social constructs and roles assigned to individuals which are reinforced by social institutions. Consequently, these biological differences become the basis of social differentiation, discrimination and exclusion. The exclusion of over half of the population becomes a serious handicap to any developing and civilised society. It is a global challenge, which has been acknowledged by the UNDP when it mentioned that, "If development is not engendered it is endangered" (HDR UNDP 1995). Discrimination, in general, and gender discrimination, in particular, is a crime against humanity. All efforts need to be made to address the denial of opportunities for education, employment, political representation, low wages for similar types of work, disregard to their entitlement to live a dignified life, etc. A society which fails to acknowledge and take effective measures to remove such discriminations, cannot be treated as a civilised one. The Government of India has duly acknowledged the adverse impacts of these discriminations and launched a nationwide campaign called 'Beti Bachao – Beti Padhao'.
Which of the following represents a civilised society?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Entitlement of women to live a dignified life
The passage states: “All efforts need to be made to address the denial of opportunities for education, employment, political representation, low wages for similar types of work, disregard to their entitlement to live a dignified life, etc. A society which fails to acknowledge and take effective measures to remove such discriminations, cannot be treated as a civilised one.”
Option (1) Male dominated political representation — Incorrect. Keeping women out of political representation is a form of gender discrimination.
Option (2) Unequal wages for similar types of work — Incorrect. Low wages for the same work is another discrimination a civilised society must remove.
Option (3) Entitlement of women to live a dignified life — Correct. A civilised society removes discrimination. Respecting the right of women to a dignified life does this.
Option (4) Social exclusions — Incorrect. The exclusion of over half of the population is a serious handicap to any developing and civilised society.
Note: This passage is the box ‘Promoting Gender Sensitivity through Beti Bachao–Beti Padhao Social Campaign’ in the chapter ‘Population: Distribution, Density, Growth and Composition’ (India: People and Economy), almost word for word.