Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
Ready to check the official UPSC Answer Key?
Click any option above to test yourself under exam conditions, or reveal the explanation directly.
Correct Answer: Option (B) — Jainism
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference VerifiedJainism teaches that jiva (soul/consciousness) exists in all elements of nature, classifying living beings into various categories based on senses—including single-sensed beings (ekendriya) residing in earth (prithvikaya), water (apkaya), fire (tejakaya), and air (vayukaya). This comprehensive animism forms the metaphysical foundation for Jainism's extreme emphasis on Ahimsa.
The belief that rocks, water, and wind possess living souls is uniquely and quintessentially the doctrine of pan-psychism in Jainism.
Practice Full-Length & Sectional Prelims Mocks on this Interface
50 simulated tests in the APT Prelims Test Series (₹1,493) or 1-on-1 Mentorship with Avinash Sir.