Given below are three quotations of philosophers. What do each of the quotations convey to you in the present context? A. "To feel for others, and little for ourselves, and to restrain our selfish, and exercise our benevolent affections, constitutes the perfection of human nature." Adam Smith B. "Virtue lies in our power, and so does vice; because where it is in our power to act, it is also in our power not to act." Aristotle C. "I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing." Socrates

Adam's quote highlighted the most significant aspect of human nature i.e compassion (feeling for others) and sacrifice (little for ourselves). These humane values distinct humanus from matasya nyana (i.e long fish eating small ones). Swami Vivekananda, also emphasised on the need for compassion towards fellow humans. He said, worshipping god is useless if we are indifferent to others suffering. Similarly, Mother Teresa also dedicated her life for service of humanity doing little for her own self.

Padma awardee Siddhu Laj Satpal also known as mother of orphans dedicated her benevolent affections towards orphans & worked sufficiently for them. Another shining example of this is Usha Chaumar - herself being manual scavenger - she histrically worked for upliftment of manual scavengers. Adam Smith's quote is relevant for civil servants, where they need to prioritise public service over their personal self. As today's world, grappling with uncertainties, it becomes more relevant that we as humanity feel for others and stop the ongoing wars engulfing innocent lives and dreams of many.