2021 · GS Paper 4 · Q3(c) · 10 marks
what do each of the following quotations mean to you? "Life doesn't make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, it is better for us all." — Erik Erikson
In short
Erikson's line means human life finds meaning only through others, since identity, trust and growth are built in relationships rather than alone. COVID-19 proved it: no one was safe until everyone was, which India answered with Vaccine Maitri from January 2021.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 262 words
Meaning through others
Erikson's trust versus mistrust and intimacy versus isolation show identity is built in relationships, like *Ubuntu*, "I am because we are".
Neither dependence nor isolation
Gandhi wanted each village independent for its vital wants yet interdependent for many others, the overlap shown above.
The sooner the better
Cooperation learnt early in family and school spares society the costly lessons of conflict.
Global health
COVID-19 proved no one is safe until everyone is safe; India's Vaccine Maitri (2021) sent vaccines to neighbours and poorer nations.
Climate commons
Emissions anywhere warm the planet everywhere, so the Paris Agreement (2015) treats the atmosphere as a shared trust.
Supply chains
China's 2025 curbs on rare earth exports showed interdependence can be weaponised, so Atmanirbhar Bharat seeks resilience, not isolation.
Governance
Swachh Bharat worked as a *jan andolan* because citizens, panchayats and officials depended on one another; an officer must work with communities, not over them.
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This chapter in the exam
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from the world14 questions
Asked in 11 of 14 sittings since 2013
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2021 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.