One-Word Answer Type Questions – Religion, Communalism, and Politics
1. What is the term for the political ideology that promotes the dominance of one religion over others?
Answer: Communalism
Explanation: Communalism is the belief that religion should be the primary basis of social and political identity, often leading to conflicts between religious communities .
2. Which leader believed that politics should be guided by ethical values drawn from religion?
Answer: Gandhiji
Explanation: Mahatma Gandhi argued that politics must be guided by religious and moral values, but not in a way that discriminates against any religion .
3. Which country has experienced severe religious conflicts due to communalism, as mentioned in the textbook?
Answer: Northern Ireland
Explanation: Northern Ireland faced violent conflicts between Protestants and Catholics, showing the dangers of religion-based nationalism .
4. What term is used to describe the mobilization of voters based on religion in politics?
Answer: Religious Mobilization
Explanation: Religious mobilization happens when political parties use religious symbols and leaders to influence voters, which can lead to communal tensions .
5. What type of state treats all religions equally and does not have an official religion?
Answer: Secular
Explanation: A secular state does not endorse or promote any particular religion and treats all religious communities with equality .
6. What is the extreme form of communalism that results in violence and riots?
Answer: Communal Violence
Explanation: Communal violence occurs when religious conflicts escalate into riots and massacres, as seen during India’s Partition and other events .
7. Which fundamental right in the Indian Constitution protects religious freedom?
Answer: Right to Freedom of Religion
Explanation: The Right to Freedom of Religion ensures that all citizens can profess, practice, and propagate any religion without discrimination .
8. What term describes the use of religious identity to justify discrimination against minorities?
Answer: Religious Prejudice
Explanation: Religious prejudice leads to stereotypes and discrimination, where one religion is considered superior to others, often fueling communalism .
9. What legal provision in India allows the government to intervene in religious matters for social reforms?
Answer: Constitutional Provisions
Explanation: The Indian Constitution allows state intervention in religious matters, such as banning untouchability, to ensure social justice and equality .
10. Which principle in democracy ensures that no religious group dominates others?
Answer: Equality
Explanation: Equality in a democracy ensures that all religious groups are treated fairly, preventing majoritarianism and discrimination .
