Top 5 IES General Studies Essays Solved | UPSC Essay Topics with Examples & Analysis

IES/ISS EXAM 2025 General ENGLISH Paper Solution

 Q1 (a) Economics is as much about human behaviour as about using finite resources

Essay:

Economics, often referred to as the science of scarcity, is traditionally viewed as a field concerned with the optimal use of limited resources. Yet, in its modern form, economics is far more than that. It is increasingly recognized as a behavioural science, closely aligned with psychology, sociology, and anthropology. The way people make decisions—whether rational or irrational, logical or emotional—plays a pivotal role in shaping economic outcomes. Thus, to understand economics in the 21st century, one must acknowledge that it is as much about human behaviour as it is about allocating scarce resources.

The Classical Economic View: Focus on Resources

Historically, classical and neoclassical economists like Adam Smith, David Ricardo, and Alfred Marshall centered their theories on resource allocation. The key problems they sought to address were:

• What to produce?

• How to produce?

• For whom to produce?

These questions stem from the fundamental reality that resources such as land, labor, and capital are finite, while human wants are infinite. The classical approach assumes that economic agents are rational and always aim to maximize utility or profit. Tools such as supply and demand curves, production possibility frontiers, and marginal analysis dominated this resource-centric framework.

Enter Behavioural Economics: The Psychology of Decision-Making

In reality, however, human decisions often deviate from rationality. The field of behavioural economics emerged to address these discrepancies. Pioneered by thinkers like Daniel Kahneman and Richard Thaler, behavioural economics blends traditional economic theories with psychological insights. It studies how cognitive biases, emotions, and social influences shape economic choices.

For instance, consider loss aversion—people fear losses more than they value equivalent gains. Or status quo bias—where individuals prefer things to stay the same even when better options exist. These biases are crucial for understanding why people overspend, under-save, or make suboptimal investment decisions.

A classic example is the retirement savings crisis in many countries. Despite access to retirement plans, people often delay or avoid saving. This behaviour is not due to lack of resources, but due to present bias, procrastination, and poor financial literacy—factors deeply rooted in human psychology.

Consumerism: A Product of Both Behaviour and Scarcity

The global economy today is shaped by consumer preferences, brand perception, and psychological impulses. Why does a person buy a luxury watch over a cheaper yet functional one? Why do individuals hoard goods during economic crises? Why do people succumb to ‘Black Friday’ sales even when they don’t need the items? These patterns can’t be explained by rational resource management alone—they reflect behavioural tendencies like herd mentality, instant gratification, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).

Marketing, a critical pillar of economic activity, thrives on exploiting behavioural insights. Advertisements don’t just inform consumers; they manipulate desires, influence behaviour, and manufacture demand. Thus, the economic cycle of demand and supply is deeply rooted in the human psyche.

Public Policy: Nudging Behaviour for Better Outcomes

Governments and institutions now design economic policies not just based on budget constraints or cost-benefit analysis, but on “nudge theory.” This involves subtly guiding people’s choices without restricting their freedom. For example:

• Automatically enrolling employees in pension schemes (with an opt-out option) increases savings participation rates.

• Organ donation rates rise when people have to opt out rather than opt in.

• Taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages aim to discourage unhealthy consumption behaviour, not just raise revenue.

These policy tools show that influencing human behaviour can be as powerful as manipulating prices or resources.

Environmental Economics: The Ultimate Test of Dual Nature

Climate change and environmental degradation present a profound challenge that blends both elements—scarce resources and human behaviour. Fossil fuels, clean water, forests—these are all finite resources being consumed at unsustainable rates. But why do societies fail to act decisively despite knowing the consequences?

Here, behavioural economics provides answers:

• Tragedy of the commons: Individuals act in self-interest even when it harms the collective good.

• Hyperbolic discounting: People prefer immediate benefits over long-term sustainability.

• Information overload: People often ignore climate data due to cognitive fatigue or denial.

Solving environmental problems therefore requires behavioural shifts—towards sustainability, ethical consumption, and ecological responsibility.

Real-World Examples: When Behaviour Overrides Scarcity

1. Cryptocurrency Investment: Despite lacking intrinsic value or government backing, crypto assets soared in value—driven by hype, social proof, and speculative behaviour.

2. COVID-19 Panic Buying: Supermarkets ran out of essentials not due to shortage but irrational consumer behaviour. Fear and uncertainty dictated buying decisions.

3. Gambling and Lottery Markets: These exist despite poor odds, because people overestimate unlikely events—what psychologists call the “availability heuristic.”

Conclusion: The Fusion of Mind and Market

Economics is no longer just about GDP, inflation, or budget deficits. It is about how people think, feel, and behave in the face of choices. It is about the stories we tell ourselves when we buy, save, invest, or protest. A true economist today must wear two hats—that of a statistician and that of a psychologist. Only then can we design better markets, craft smarter policies, and build a fairer economy.

Thus, the essence of economics lies not only in the arithmetic of scarcity but in the psychology of decisions. In understanding people, we understand the economy.

Q1 (b): Who wishes to fight must first count the cost.

Essay:

Throughout history and human experience, the desire to fight—be it for justice, power, dignity, or pride—has inspired revolutions, resistance movements, and personal transformations. However, before entering any battle, literal or metaphorical, a wise person must pause and reflect. The phrase “Who wishes to fight must first count the cost” is not merely a caution but a philosophy. It advises strategic foresight, mental and material preparedness, and an understanding of consequences before committing to any confrontation.

The Biblical Origin and Philosophical Insight

The expression finds its roots in the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke (14:31), where Jesus says, “Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand?” The essence of this parable is timeless—whether in war, politics, or personal life, acting without calculation can lead to disaster.

This aphorism is not a call for cowardice or inaction; rather, it is a call for strategic intelligence, pragmatism, and self-awareness.

Historical Examples: Wars That Were Fought Without Counting the Cost

1. World War I (1914–1918):The Great War erupted due to rising nationalism, militarism, and entangled alliances. But very few leaders truly estimated the devastating cost—over 20 million dead, vast economic ruin, and political upheaval. The romanticism of heroism clouded the cold reality of modern warfare.

2. U.S. Invasion of Iraq (2003):The war was launched under the pretext of eliminating weapons of mass destruction. Yet, insufficient planning for the post-war phase led to massive instability, civil strife, and the rise of extremist groups. The cost—both economic and human—continues to haunt the Middle East.

3. India-China 1962 War:India, unprepared militarily and diplomatically, entered into a confrontation with a far more organized Chinese army. The result was a humiliating defeat and a wake-up call to never underestimate an adversary again.

Fighting in the Personal Sphere – The Cost of Emotional Conflicts

Beyond geopolitics and history, the saying holds immense relevance in everyday life. Personal battles—arguments, legal disputes, divorce proceedings, or career confrontations—also demand forethought.

Consider a whistleblower exposing corruption within a corporation. Though morally right, the decision involves high costs—career risk, public scrutiny, and legal battles. If one enters the fight unprepared, the emotional and financial toll can be devastating.

Even in relationships, impulsive confrontations can cause long-term emotional damage. Venting anger may feel justified momentarily, but its repercussions—broken trust, mental trauma, and guilt—must be anticipated.

In all these situations, the key is to evaluate:

• Is the fight necessary?

• Am I prepared for the backlash?

• What are the alternatives?

• Can the goal be achieved more peacefully?

Resistance Movements: Courage Needs Strategy

Many of history’s greatest movements for justice were born out of this principle.

• Mahatma Gandhi’s Nonviolent Struggle:Gandhi understood the cost of violence and sought change through nonviolent resistance. He meticulously strategized satyagraha campaigns, understanding both the risks and the power of mass civil disobedience.

• Nelson Mandela’s Fight Against Apartheid:Mandela and the African National Congress (ANC) initially followed peaceful methods. When those failed, the ANC moved to armed resistance, but even then, Mandela emphasized minimizing civilian casualties and maximizing strategic impact.

These leaders didn't fight blindly; they weighed the consequences, made sacrifices knowingly, and calculated long-term outcomes over short-term passions.

Modern Implications: Diplomacy, Protests, and Negotiations

Today, this principle must be embedded into modern leadership, governance, and civil resistance. Whether it’s a country deciding on economic sanctions, or citizens organizing mass protests, or a corporation entering a lawsuit—each must ask: Is the fight worth the fallout?

Modern social justice movements also require this mindset. Peaceful protests, lobbying, litigation, and digital activism must be carried out with a clear understanding of legality, ethics, impact, and sustainability.

Impulsive or poorly planned actions can backfire—leading to arrests, misuse of the narrative, or loss of public support.

The Cost May Not Be Material Alone

Another deeper interpretation of “counting the cost” lies in emotional, moral, and spiritual tolls. A person who decides to speak the truth in a corrupt system may face social ostracization. A soldier who fights a war may return with PTSD. An entrepreneur who battles against a monopolistic market may face sleepless nights, anxiety, and debt.

These “invisible” costs are just as real, and they must be anticipated and mentally prepared for. That’s where resilience, support systems, and inner clarity play a crucial role.

Conclusion: Think, Then Act

Fighting is sometimes necessary. Injustice must be challenged. Evil must be resisted. But not every battle is wise, and not every impulse is worth acting upon. Courage must be tempered by calculation. Passion must be backed by preparation.

A person, leader, or nation that engages in a fight without weighing the cost is doomed to chaos. But one who anticipates, prepares, and still chooses to fight—does so with strength, dignity, and clarity.

So let us not glorify the fight alone—let us glorify the wisdom to know which battles to choose, how to fight them, and how to emerge stronger.

Q1 (c): Needs are imposed by nature, wants are sold by society.

Essay:

Human life is a complex interplay between survival and satisfaction. The distinction between needs and wants—though seemingly simple—carries profound philosophical, economic, and sociological implications. Needs are basic and essential; wants are amplified and often manufactured. The phrase “Needs are imposed by nature, wants are sold by society” encapsulates a critical truth about our modern existence.

It reflects how, while nature defines what we require to live—food, water, shelter, clothing, and safety—society, through media, culture, and capitalism, shapes what we desire. Often, wants are not just born of aspiration but are carefully constructed and sold.

What Are Needs? A Natural Mandate

Needs are the non-negotiable elements of human survival. Without meeting them, life itself is endangered. Abraham Maslow, in his hierarchy of needs, placed physiological and safety needs at the base—indicating that these are foundational for any higher pursuit.

Examples include:

• Food and Water: Essential for bodily function.

• Shelter: For protection from the environment.

• Healthcare: To preserve life and manage illness.

• Education: A functional necessity in modern society.

These needs are universal across time, geography, and culture. A child in rural India and an executive in Tokyo both need food to survive, clean air to breathe, and a safe space to sleep. Nature, by its very definition, demands that these are fulfilled.

What Are Wants? A Cultural Construction

Wants, on the other hand, are non-essential desires that evolve with exposure, experience, and societal influence. Unlike needs, they are:

• Relative, not absolute.

• Infinite, not finite.

• Induced, not imposed.

Wants are shaped by:

1. Society – through norms, peer pressure, and identity.

2. Media & Advertising – which creates new desires.

3. Technology & Globalization – introducing new products and lifestyles.

For example, while clothing is a need, branded fashion is a want. A phone may be necessary, but a new iPhone every year is a want. A nutritious meal is a need, but dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant is a want.

These wants are sold—literally and metaphorically—by society. Marketers use sophisticated psychological tools to generate desire, urgency, and aspiration. They sell the idea that possessing a product makes one more successful, attractive, or fulfilled.

Consumerism: The Business of Selling Wants

Modern capitalism thrives on the expansion of wants. The global economy is not driven by needs (which are limited) but by wants (which can be created infinitely). Entire industries exist to feed desires that people didn’t even know they had.

Consider:

• The beauty industry: Selling dreams of perfection.

• The tech industry: Convincing users that last year’s phone is obsolete.

• The fashion industry: Turning last season’s trend into today’s embarrassment.

In this system, happiness is often equated with possession. But in reality, the satisfaction derived from fulfilling wants is fleeting—leading to the hedonic treadmill, where people constantly chase new wants without achieving lasting contentment.

Social and Psychological Consequences

While needs sustain life, unchecked wants can complicate it. The societal emphasis on consumption and comparison creates:

• Stress and anxiety from competition and material expectations.

• Debt traps, as people live beyond their means to keep up appearances.

• Environmental degradation, due to overproduction and overconsumption.

• Loss of identity, as people define themselves through brands rather than values.

Children today are growing up in a world where they are targeted as consumers from a young age. Their sense of self-worth is shaped not by character but by what they own or display on social media.

Philosophical and Spiritual Insights

Ancient philosophies have long cautioned against the illusion of wants.

• Buddhism teaches that desire (tanha) is the root of suffering.

• Gandhi famously said, “The world has enough for everyone's needs, but not everyone's greed.”

• Stoicism urges contentment with essentials and detachment from luxuries.

These teachings remind us that while wants may bring temporary pleasure, lasting peace comes from fulfilling genuine needs and practicing restraint.

Economics and Public Policy: Recognizing the Difference

Policymakers and economists must distinguish between needs and wants when allocating resources.

• Subsidized healthcare, food security, and education target needs.

• Luxury goods taxation, sin taxes, and green consumption incentives aim to regulate wants.

Welfare schemes that prioritize basic needs help reduce poverty and inequality. However, economic models that chase GDP growth through excessive consumption risk creating unstable and unsustainable societies.

The Role of Education and Awareness

To combat the commercialization of wants, education must teach:

• Media literacy, so consumers recognize manipulation.

• Financial literacy, so people budget for needs before splurging on wants.

• Ethical consumption, so buyers understand the environmental and social cost of their choices.

Conclusion: Choosing Between Need and Greed

In the final analysis, nature provides what is essential. Society adds layers of desire, status, and illusion. It is up to the individual—and collective systems—to discern between what is needed and what is merely marketed.

True progress lies not in satisfying every want but in ensuring that every need is met. A just society does not sell dreams to the wealthy while denying basics to the poor.

Let us remember: simplicity is not lack—it is freedom. And in a world choking with excess, choosing to live with what we need might just be the boldest choice of all.

Q1 (d): Consumption of plant-based diet

Essay:

In recent years, the phrase “plant-based diet” has moved from the margins of dietary discussions to the center stage of global food discourse. No longer just a lifestyle trend or a niche preference, the consumption of plant-based diets has become a multi-dimensional movement—grounded in science, ethics, sustainability, and health consciousness.

From celebrities endorsing veganism to governments promoting meat alternatives, plant-based eating is being recognized as a key solution to many of the crises facing humanity today. But what does a plant-based diet entail, and why is it being hailed as a necessary shift in human consumption patterns?

Understanding Plant-Based Diets

A plant-based diet emphasizes foods derived from plant sources. These include:

• Vegetables

• Fruits

• Whole grains

• Legumes

• Nuts and seeds

• Plant oils

It excludes or minimizes animal products such as meat, dairy, and eggs. While veganism is a strict form of plant-based eating that avoids all animal-derived products, flexitarianism allows occasional inclusion of animal products.

Plant-based diets can be tailored for various needs—high protein, low carb, gluten-free—without depending on meat or dairy.

Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Scientific studies from across the world highlight multiple health benefits of plant-centric eating:

1. Heart HealthPlant-based diets are rich in fiber and low in saturated fats, reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. The American Heart Association supports plant-based eating as a preventive measure for cardiovascular diseases.

2. Weight ManagementWhole plant foods are nutrient-dense and lower in calories. Individuals on plant-based diets report healthier BMIs and better metabolic rates.

3. Diabetes ControlResearch from Harvard and other institutions shows that plant-based diets can reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.

4. Cancer PreventionThe World Cancer Research Fund suggests diets rich in vegetables, legumes, and whole grains may reduce the risk of colorectal and breast cancer.

5. Gut HealthA diverse range of plant foods supports a healthy microbiome, improving digestion and immunity.

6. LongevityBlue Zone regions—areas known for high life expectancy—show a predominance of plant-based eating among their populations.

Environmental Impact: Sustainability on Your Plate

Animal agriculture is one of the leading contributors to:

• Greenhouse gas emissions

• Deforestation

• Water pollution

• Biodiversity loss

According to a landmark study published in Science (2018), shifting to a plant-based diet could reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70%.

Water Usage Comparison:

• 1 kg of beef requires ~15,000 liters of water

• 1 kg of lentils requires ~1,250 liters of water

By choosing legumes over lamb or tofu over turkey, consumers indirectly reduce their carbon and water footprint.

Ethical and Moral Dimensions

Beyond health and environment, plant-based eating is a matter of animal welfare and compassionate living.

• Factory farming practices often involve cruelty, confinement, and unsanitary conditions.

• Slaughterhouses raise ethical concerns around sentience, consciousness, and suffering of animals.

A plant-based diet supports the idea of "Ahimsa" (non-violence), aligning with spiritual and ethical principles upheld by religions like Jainism, Buddhism, and certain sects of Hinduism.

Economic and Global Food Security

A lesser-discussed but crucial benefit of plant-based diets is their role in improving global food equity.

• A significant portion of agricultural land is used to grow feed crops for animals rather than food for humans.

• If plant-based agriculture becomes the norm, more land and food can be redirected to feed the global population—reducing hunger and malnutrition.

Moreover, the plant-based food industry is creating new jobs in agriculture, biotechnology, and health sectors, contributing to economic diversification.

Challenges and Criticism

Despite its advantages, the plant-based movement faces several challenges:

1. Cultural ResistanceIn meat-centric cultures, giving up traditional dishes is emotionally and socially difficult.

2. Nutritional ConcernsCritics argue that plant-based diets may lack certain nutrients like:

   • Vitamin B12

   • Iron (heme form)

   • Omega-3 fatty acids

   • Calcium (for vegans avoiding dairy)

   However, these can be addressed with fortified foods or supplements.

3. Affordability and AccessibilityWhile lentils and vegetables are cheap, some plant-based alternatives (like almond milk or vegan cheese) are more expensive than their animal-based counterparts, limiting access in lower-income communities.

The Way Forward: Awareness and Balance

The key to adopting plant-based eating lies in:

• Education: Teaching nutritional science from school levels.

• Cultural Adaptation: Promoting local, plant-rich dishes.

• Innovation: Supporting startups that create tasty, affordable plant-based options.

• Policy Support: Government subsidies for fruits, grains, and legumes.

Even small changes—like Meatless Mondays or replacing dairy with soy milk—can create significant positive impact over time.

Conclusion: A Plateful of Change

The consumption of a plant-based diet is not a passing fad but a transformative idea whose time has come. It holds the promise of a healthier individual, a more compassionate society, and a livable planet.

In a world increasingly threatened by chronic diseases, climate change, and ethical dilemmas, what we choose to eat becomes a powerful statement. A plant-based diet offers a way to eat consciously, live sustainably, and act compassionately.

After all, the change begins not in policy halls or protest marches—but on our plates.

Q1 (e) Control anger before it controls you

Essay:

Anger is one of the most primal and powerful human emotions. It can fuel revolutions and justice, but also destroy relationships and lives. Like fire, when managed properly, it can be useful; but left unchecked, it can become a destructive inferno. The timeless warning—“Control anger before it controls you”—is not only good advice but a vital life skill in today’s high-pressure world.

This essay delves into the psychology of anger, its consequences on health and society, and most importantly, the ways in which we can take charge of it before it takes charge of us.

Understanding Anger: A Biological and Emotional Reaction

Anger is a natural response to perceived threats, injustices, or frustrations. From an evolutionary standpoint, anger prepared humans to defend themselves, triggering a “fight or flight” response. In modern times, however, the threats are more psychological than physical—stress at work, rejection, traffic jams, or disrespect.

Biochemically, anger stimulates the release of adrenaline and cortisol, increasing heart rate, muscle tension, and energy. While this can help in short bursts, chronic anger harms the body and mind.

Consequences of Uncontrolled Anger

1. Health HazardsChronic anger has been linked to:

   • High blood pressure

   • Heart disease

   • Weakened immune system

   • Insomnia

   • Anxiety and depression

   The American Psychological Association warns that prolonged anger can be more harmful than smoking or obesity in some cases.

2. Damaged RelationshipsAnger can rupture bonds with loved ones, colleagues, or friends. Words spoken in rage can leave lasting scars. Domestic violence, workplace disputes, and divorces are often rooted in unmanaged anger.

3. Poor Decision MakingAngry minds often make irrational decisions. From impulsive quitting of jobs to road rage accidents or physical altercations, the consequences are often irreversible.

4. Legal and Social ConsequencesOutbursts in public or private settings can lead to legal charges, loss of employment, or public shame—especially in the age of social media.

5. Loss of Reputation and RespectPeople who can’t manage their temper are often feared but rarely respected. Emotional intelligence, not aggression, builds long-term influence and leadership.

The Modern World: A Breeding Ground for Anger

In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, anger has found new outlets:

• Online trolling and hate speech on social media platforms.

• Political polarization, where debates often escalate into hostility.

• Consumer frustration over poor services or rising inflation.

• Workplace stress, where unrealistic expectations lead to burnout and resentment.

With attention spans shrinking and ego sensitivity rising, people now react before they reflect—making emotional control more urgent than ever.

Psychological Insights: Why Do People Lose Control?

Psychologists suggest that anger often masks deeper emotions such as:

• Fear

• Insecurity

• Guilt

• Helplessness

For example, a person yelling at their child for spilling water may, in fact, be overwhelmed by work pressure or financial instability.

Anger also thrives in:

• Poor communication

• Unrealistic expectations

• Unresolved trauma

• Low self-esteem

Therefore, managing anger is not just about suppressing outbursts—it is about healing and understanding the root cause.

Strategies to Control Anger Before It Controls You

1. Pause and BreathePractice the “10-second rule.” Pause before reacting. Deep breathing slows the physiological arousal.

2. Cognitive RestructuringChange the way you interpret situations. Instead of “This is unfair,” think “I can handle this differently.”

3. Use ‘I’ StatementsReplace blame with ownership. “I feel upset when my opinions are ignored” instead of “You never listen!”

4. Physical ExerciseRegular physical activity helps reduce stress and channel excess energy.

5. Mindfulness and MeditationMindfulness increases emotional regulation and reduces reactivity. Practices like yoga and journaling also help.

6. Therapy and CounselingProfessional help can uncover underlying causes and offer coping strategies. Anger management therapy is effective for many.

7. Healthy OutletsArt, music, writing, or volunteering help release pent-up emotions constructively.

8. Avoid TriggersIf you know certain situations or people provoke you, plan ahead or avoid them altogether when possible.

Anger and Leadership: A Lesson in Self-Control

True leaders are not those who intimidate but those who inspire through composure. Mahatma Gandhi led a freedom movement based on non-violence, even under severe provocation. Nelson Mandela emerged from 27 years of prison without bitterness. These are not just historical stories—they are blueprints for emotional mastery.

In contrast, leaders who lash out in anger often lose credibility and stability. Emotional intelligence is a key trait in business, politics, and personal growth.

Children and Anger: Building Emotional Literacy Early

It’s crucial to teach children how to identify, express, and manage anger. Schools should integrate emotional education alongside academics. Parents must model calm responses instead of shouting matches.

Children who learn emotional regulation early become more resilient adults.

Conclusion: Power Lies in Self-Mastery

Anger is not evil. It can be a signal for necessary change—a call to action. But uncontrolled anger is like a wild horse—unpredictable, dangerous, and damaging. By learning to control our anger, we don’t suppress our emotions; we elevate our consciousness.

As the proverb goes, “Speak when you are angry and you’ll make the best speech you’ll ever regret.”Let us, instead, respond with wisdom, not react with rage.

Control anger—not by denying it, but by understanding it. Because the one who conquers his own mind is greater than one who conquers a thousand enemies.

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