The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject any thing, is not whether it has any evil in it; but whether it has more evil than good. There are few things wholly evil or wholly good. Almost every thing, especially of governmental policy, is an in- seprarable compound of the two; so that our best judgement of the preponderance between them is continually demand. - Abraham Lincoln.

Model Answer Approach

1. Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Abraham Lincoln.
2. Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
3. Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
4. Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.

Structure Checklist

• ✓ Definition / context in intro
• ✓ Minimum 1 data point or report
• ✓ Multi-dimensional arguments
• ✓ Counter-view / limitations
• ✓ Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
• ✓ Way forward in conclusion

Keywords to Use

Related UPSC Mains Questions

From the same microtheme — Abraham Lincoln.

• Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.—Abraham Lincoln
  📅 2013 · 📌 10