Moral science question paper solution:
**1. One-word answers:**
a. Values
b. Integrity
c. Commitment
d. Generation
e. Respect
f. Excellence
g. Determination
h. Altruism
i. Trust
j. Agreement
**2. Answers:**
a. The three universal core values are: Integrity, Responsibility, Respect.
b. Three reasons why cheating is wrong:
1. It undermines trust.
2. It leads to loss of self-respect.
3. It creates an unfair advantage.
c. Three important points to keep in mind before conducting a healthy and positive
discussion:
1. Listen actively.
2. Respect differing opinions.
3. Stay focused on the topic.
d. Three things that a person with integrity does:
1. Stands up for the truth.
2. Is honest in all dealings.
3. Keeps commitments.
e. Three essential good habits to incorporate into life:
1. Regular exercise.
2. Time management.
3. Continuous learning.
**3. True or False:**
a. True
b. False
c. True
d. False
e. True
**a. What is cheating? Why is it wrong? With the help of examples, show how cheating
hurts the cheater most.**
Cheating is defined as behaving dishonestly or not obeying rules to gain an unfair
advantage, often by getting something that is not deserved or earned. It can take many
forms, such as copying someone else’s work, using unauthorized materials during an
exam, or lying about one’s qualifications.
Cheating is wrong for several reasons:
1. **Undermines Trust**: Cheating erodes trust between individuals, whether
in academic settings, workplaces, or personal relationships. When someone
cheats, it creates doubt about their honesty and integrity.
2. **Loss of Self-Respect**: Engaging in cheating can lead to feelings of guilt
and shame. The cheater may struggle with self-esteem and self-worth,
knowing they did not achieve success through their own efforts.
3. **Creates Unfair Advantages**: Cheating creates an uneven playing field,
disadvantaging those who work hard and follow the rules. This can lead to
resentment and conflict among peers.
4. **Long-term Consequences**: Cheating can become a habit, leading to a
pattern of dishonest behavior that can affect future opportunities, such as
job prospects or academic advancement.
**Examples of how cheating hurts the cheater most:**
- **Academic Cheating**: A student who cheats on an exam may
pass the course but misses out on the knowledge and skills that
would have been gained through honest effort. This lack of
understanding can lead to struggles in future courses or in their
career.
- **Workplace Cheating**: An employee who falsifies their work
hours to receive extra pay may face disciplinary action if caught,
leading to job loss and a damaged reputation. The stress of living
with the fear of being discovered can also take a toll on their mental
health.
- **Personal Relationships**: Cheating in a relationship can lead to a
loss of trust and respect from partners and friends. The cheater may
find themselves isolated and regretting their actions when they
realize the impact on their relationships.
**b. What does it mean to live by integrity? Describe an incident where you failed to
practice integrity. What did you learn from this incident?**
Living by integrity means consistently adhering to moral and ethical principles, being
honest, and doing the right thing even when it is difficult or when no one is watching. It
involves being accountable for one’s actions and maintaining trustworthiness in all areas of
life.
**Incident of Failing to Practice Integrity:**
An incident where I failed to practice integrity occurred during a group project in school. I
was assigned to work with a few classmates, and as the deadline approached, I noticed
that one of my teammates was struggling to complete their part of the project. Instead of
offering help or discussing the issue with the group, I chose to cover for them by submitting
their incomplete work as my own. I justified this decision by thinking that it would help the
team succeed.
**What I Learned:**
After the project was graded, I felt a sense of unease. I realized that I had not only
compromised my own values but also set a poor example for my teammates. The
experience taught me that integrity is not just about avoiding dishonest actions; it is also
about fostering a culture of honesty and support within a team. I learned that true success
comes from collaboration and accountability, and that it is essential to address issues
openly rather than taking shortcuts. This incident reinforced my commitment to living by
integrity in all aspects of my life, ensuring that I contribute positively to any group I am part
of.
**c. How is sincere appreciation different from flattery? Which of these should we avoid
and why?**
Sincere appreciation is a genuine expression of gratitude or recognition for someone’s
efforts, qualities, or contributions. It is heartfelt, specific, and comes from a place of
respect and admiration. For example, telling a colleague, “I really appreciate the effort you
put into that presentation; it was well-researched and engaging,” reflects sincere
appreciation.
Flattery, on the other hand, is often insincere and exaggerated praise intended to
manipulate or gain favor from someone. It may lack authenticity and can come across as
disingenuous. For instance, saying, “You’re the best at everything you do!” without any
specific context can be seen as flattery.
**Which to Avoid and Why:**
We should avoid flattery because it can damage trust and relationships. People can often
sense when praise is not genuine, leading to skepticism and a lack of respect. Sincere
appreciation, however, fosters positive relationships and encourages a supportive
environment, making it a more valuable approach in both personal and professional
interactions.
**d. “Don’t die before you are dead. Live while you are still alive.” Which quality is referred
to here? Why should we adopt this principle?**
The quality referred to here is **mindfulness** or **living fully in the present moment**.
This principle encourages individuals to engage actively with life, to appreciate
experiences, and to make the most of their time rather than merely existing or going
through the motions.
**Why We Should Adopt This Principle:**
Adopting this principle is essential because it promotes a fulfilling and meaningful life.
When we live mindfully, we are more aware of our surroundings, relationships, and
opportunities. This awareness can lead to greater happiness, improved mental health, and
stronger connections with others. It encourages us to pursue our passions, take risks, and
embrace new experiences, ultimately leading to a richer and more satisfying life. In a fast-
paced world, this principle serves as a reminder to slow down, appreciate the moment,
and live with intention.
**e. What is the difference between listening and hearing? Which of the two is more
important and why?**
Listening is an active process that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding,
and remembering what is being said. It requires engagement and effort to comprehend the
message and the emotions behind it. For example, when someone shares their feelings, a
good listener will provide feedback and ask questions to show they are engaged.
Hearing, on the other hand, is a passive physiological process where sound waves are
received by the ears and transmitted to the brain. It does not require any effort or intention.
For instance, one might hear background noise while working but not pay attention to it.
**Which is More Important and Why:**
Listening is more important than hearing because it fosters effective communication and
understanding. Active listening builds trust and rapport, allowing for deeper connections
and more meaningful interactions. It enables individuals to respond appropriately and
empathetically, which is crucial in both personal and professional relationships. In
contrast, merely hearing without listening can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of
connection.
**f. There are two groups of people in this world. The first group consists of those who are
brutally honest and say what they have to without caring for the feelings of their listeners.
The other group comprises those who are tactful and choose their words carefully. Which
of these two groups do you belong to? Do you feel you belong to the right group? Why?**
I belong to the second group, those who are tactful and choose their words carefully. I
believe that being considerate of others’ feelings while still being honest is essential for
maintaining healthy relationships.
**Do I Feel I Belong to the Right Group? Why?**
Yes, I feel I belong to the right group because tactfulness allows for open communication
without causing unnecessary hurt. It is important to express opinions and truths, but doing
so with empathy and respect fosters a supportive environment. This approach encourages
constructive dialogue and helps to resolve conflicts without damaging relationships. Being
tactful also demonstrates emotional intelligence, which is crucial in both personal and
professional settings.
**g. Winston Churchill once said that the price of greatness was responsibility. What did he
mean? Why do you feel that this is such an important virtue to have in today’s world?**
Winston Churchill’s statement means that achieving greatness—whether in leadership,
personal achievements, or societal contributions—comes with the obligation to be
responsible for one’s actions and decisions. Greatness is not just about personal success;
it involves being accountable to others and making choices that positively impact those
around us.
**Why This is an Important Virtue in Today’s World:**
In today’s world, where challenges such as social inequality, environmental issues, and
political unrest are prevalent, responsibility is crucial. Leaders and individuals alike must
recognize the consequences of their actions and decisions. Embracing responsibility
fosters trust, accountability, and ethical behavior, which are essential for building strong
communities and effective leadership.
Moreover, in a globalized society, our actions can have far-reaching effects. Being
responsible encourages individuals to think critically about their choices and their impact
on others, promoting a culture of care and consideration. This virtue is vital for creating a
better future, as it inspires collective action towards positive change and encourages
individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
