pyq/2023/philosophy-optional-i/1

Write short answers to the following in about 150 words each: (10 marks each, 150 words each)

(a) “Precepts without concepts are blind and concepts without precepts are empty.” In the light of this statement discuss how Kant reconciles rationalism with empiricism. (10 marks, 150 words)

(b) “History is a process of dialectical change.” In the light of this statement discuss Hegel’s approach in understanding history. (10 marks, 150 words)

(c) “That thing is said to be free which exists solely from the necessity of its own nature, and is determined to action by itself alone.” Discuss Spinoza’s views on freedom and determinism in the light of the above statement. (10 marks, 150 words)

(d) How does Kierkegaard argue against Hegel’s idea of universal spirit in favour of the individual as the essence of spirit ? Critically discuss. (10 marks, 150 words)

(e) What are the main arguments offered by Kant to prove that apriori synthetic judgements are possible ? Discuss with examples. (10 marks, 150 words)