All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

'The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty.' Examine this statement in the context of international relations.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2020 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (04-Oct-2020)

This statement captures the core tension in international relations. The ‘will to power’—a nation's drive to secure its interests—is a persistent realist force, visible in military competition and strategic rivalries.

However, it is not an uncontrollable impulse. Rationality tames it through enlightened self-interest. Nations understand that unchecked aggression can lead to mutually assured destruction or economic collapse, making diplomacy and cooperation the more logical paths to long-term security.

Similarly, principles of moral duty guide state behaviour. The growth of international law, human rights conventions, and climate agreements reflects a collective acceptance of shared responsibilities. While imperfect, these ethical frameworks act as a crucial check on raw power politics. Institutions like the UN institutionalize this moral duty, proving that while the will to power exists, it can be channelled by reason and a sense of global conscience for a more stable world.

Answered By:

Sarvesh Jha

Sarvesh Jha is a seasoned government exam mentor with firsthand success in top exams like IBPS PO, SBI PO, CDS, RRB JE, SSC CGL, BPSC, and CTET. Known for his deep conceptual clarity and strategic approach, he has guided over 5000 students through personalized mentorship. He has been creating well researched content for last 5 years.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. What are the options available with Rohit to cope with the situation?

  2. What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rohit?

  3. Which of the options, do you think, would be more appropriate for Rohit to adopt and why?

  4. In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the police in dealing with women protesters?

  5. What should be Sneha's course of action?

  6. How would she justify what she chooses to do?

  7. In this case, how is medical ethics compromised with vested personal interest?

  8. Discuss all options available to the District Collector as a District Magistrate.

  9. What suitable actions can be taken in view of mutually compatible interests of the stakeholders?

  10. What are the potential administrative and ethical dilemmas for the District Collector?


Important Questions from GS4

  1. What are the options available with Rohit to cope with the situation?

  2. What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rohit?

  3. Which of the options, do you think, would be more appropriate for Rohit to adopt and why?

  4. In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the police in dealing with women protesters?

  5. What should be Sneha's course of action?

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
UPSC IFoS
November 22, 2026
UPSC SO Steno
December 12, 2026
Test Series
IAS img
UPSC
UPSC CSE (IAS) 2027 Prelims Mock Test Series
662 Tests 3 Tests Free
1707 Attempts
4.8(203)
English, Hindi
More Questions from IAS

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App