Voluntary simplicity is not to be confused with poverty, which is involuntary, degrading and debilitating. Neither does it mean that people must live on a farm or reject progress or technology or do without what is necessary for their comfort and welfare. For example, we need food and shelter but we don't necessarily need to eat steak and lobster or to live in a palace. In today's world, most of us need a computer and an internet connection for work and school, but at home we don't need a computer in every room - and we don't need to spend our time endlessly surfing the internet.
To practice voluntary simplicity, one must differentiate between what one wants (psychological desires) and what one needs (basic requirements of life), and seek a healthy balance that is compatible with both. In a consumer society where advertising bombards us with the message that without this, that and the other product we are unsuccessful, undesirable and unimportant. Being clear on what you really need and resisting what you don't can be an ongoing struggle.
The beauty of voluntary simplicity is that it is a philosophy, and not a dogma. How one goes about it depends on an individual's character, cultural background and climate. Although there is no single right way to practice voluntary simplicity, there are some general guidelines that one can apply to one's individual circumstances:
Choose the correct synonym from the passage for the following expression
"rigid set of beliefs"
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Dogma
A dogma is a rigid set of beliefs laid down by an authority and expected to be accepted without question. The passage contrasts it with a philosophy, which leaves room for each person's own way.
Example: The scientist refused to accept old dogma without proof.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: debilitate — Incorrect. To debilitate is to make someone very weak. The passage calls poverty "debilitating".
Example: The long fever debilitated him for weeks.
Option 2: psychological — Incorrect. Psychological means related to the mind. The passage uses it for desires, "psychological desires".
Example: Exam stress can have a psychological effect on students.
Option 3: Compatible — Incorrect. Compatible means able to exist or work together without conflict.
Example: This charger is compatible with most phones.
| Also asked in CUET (UG): debilitate – 19-05-2025 Slot 2 |