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"The concept of Just and Unjust is contextual. What was just a year back, may turn out to be unjust in today's context. Changing context should be constantly under scrutiny to prevent miscarriage of justice." Examine the above statement with suitable examples.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2024 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (16-Jun-2024)

The statement accurately captures the fluid nature of justice. What is considered 'just' is not an immutable truth but is deeply embedded in societal norms, cultural values, scientific understanding, and prevailing ethical frameworks of a given time. As contexts evolve, so too must our understanding of justice, lest we perpetuate outdated injustices.

For instance, consider the practice of 'Sati' or child marriage; once accepted or even glorified in certain social contexts, they are now unequivocally deemed unjust violations of human rights. Similarly, the concept of data privacy, virtually non-existent a few decades ago, is now a fundamental right, making unauthorized data sharing, once common, an ethical and legal violation. Another example is LGBTQ+ rights; criminalization of homosexuality was once legally accepted, but with evolving societal understanding and human rights principles, it has been decriminalized in many parts of the world.

Constant scrutiny of these changing contexts is vital. Failure to re-evaluate what is just, whether in legal statutes or societal practices, risks institutionalizing or continuing harm, leading to a profound miscarriage of justice that undermines fairness and equality. Our collective moral compass must remain agile, continually assessing and adapting to ensure that justice remains relevant, equitable, and truly serves the well-being of all.

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

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Important Questions from GS4

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  4. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it, do not become others." — Swami Vivekananda

  5. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work." — Sardar Patel

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