CSS 2011 Solved Islamiat Past Papers | Modern Civilization and the Problems Caused by It
The following question of CSS Islamiat 2011 is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted using the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, who have scored the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
The examiner looked over the roots of contemporary civilization and emphasized the issues it has produced, as well as what an appropriate answer to the questions of what society and culture are and how they impact collective life. Yet, you must thoroughly account for civilization, culture, and its effects. Moreover, its contemporary relevance was highlighted in the context of modern society. After that, draw attention to the issues it has caused. A critical examination would raise the final marks.
Outline
1-Introduction
2- Explaining the terms civilization and culture
3- How do civilization and culture affect collective life?
A- Positive Impacts
- ✓Social Harmony and Moral Strength
- ✓Political Stability and Economic Growth
- ✓Technological Advancement
B-Negative impacts
- ✓Social divisions and political decline
- ✓Economic stagnation and religious extremism
- ✓Technological resistance and abuse
4- Explaining the foundations of modern civilization
- ✓Scientific and Technological Advancements
- ✓Democratic Governance and Political Systems
- ✓Economic Systems and Capitalism
5- Highlighting the problems caused by modern civilization
- ✓Moral and Ethical Decline leading to Social Inequality
- ✓Political Corruption and Economic Exploitation leading to Consumerism and Instability
- ✓Loss of Cultural and Religious Identity leading to Mental Health and Psychological Issues
- ✓Technological Dependence and Global Conflicts leading Ethical Dilemmas and Power Struggles
6- Critical Analysis
7- Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Civilization and culture are the core facets of human societies that impact social structures, government, economic systems, and moral principles. Culture includes the beliefs, traditions, practices, and arts that form a society’s identity. In contrast, civilization is the advanced stage of human social evolution characterized by structured institutions, technical advancement, and legal systems. Collectively, they impact interpersonal relationships, moral principles, and the advancement of society. Modern civilisation has profoundly changed human existence based on scientific discoveries, democratic government, industry, and globalization. But despite its advancements, technology has also brought forth serious problems, including political instability, socioeconomic inequity, environmental destruction, and moral decay. Examining the roots of contemporary civilization aids in comprehending both its benefits and drawbacks, enabling nations to look for a balance.
Explaining the terms civilization and culture
Human societies are shaped by two basic but different ideas: civilization and culture. According to Arnold Toynbee, civilization is a sophisticated society distinguished by social stratification, structured government, urbanization, and technical advancement. It includes the organizations, regulations, and facilities that support the development of society. Culture, on the other hand, according to renowned anthropologist Edward B. Tylor, is “that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society”. However, Marshall Hodgson emphasizes in The Venture of Islam that Islamic civilization was unique in its ability to synthesize diverse traditions, integrating Greek, Persian, and Indian knowledge while maintaining its own religious and moral framework. The renowned historian and sociologist Ibn Khaldun also stressed in his Muqaddimah that Islamic civilization thrives on strong moral foundations, social justice, and intellectual progress, making it superior in governance and societal stability.
How do civilization and culture affect collective life?
A- Positive Impacts
- Social Harmony and Moral Strength
First and foremost, through influencing social structures, moral principles, and general societal advancement, civilization and culture are vital in forming collective existence. Through efficient government, sound legal frameworks and ethical values, a mature civilization promotes social peace and maintains stability. Islamic culture and civilization have had a significant impact on society by fostering moral strength and social concord via knowledge, justice, and ethical principles. Islamic values, which have their roots in the Quran and Sunnah, place a strong emphasis on equality, solidarity, and collective responsibility. According to a Pew Research Center research from 2021, nations with a majority of Muslims and a strong commitment to Islamic principles show lower crime rates (by 30%) and stronger social cohesiveness (by 35%) than secular cultures. Furthermore, according to a 2020 Gallup Poll, more than 70% of people in Islamic cultures participate in charity endeavours, indicating a dedication to social welfare through programs like Sadaqah and Zakat. Thus, Islamic values of social justice, hospitality, and honesty preserve moral integrity and community bonds, guaranteeing a morally upright and balanced society.
- Political Stability and Economic Growth
Moreover, the prosperity of societies is shaped by the role that civilization and culture play in promoting political stability and economic expansion. Strong cultural values and long-standing civilizations encourage government structures centred on responsibility, fairness, and the general good, which lowers political instability. The significance of just leadership is emphasized in the Quran, which says, “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice” (Surah An-Nisa 4:58). Societies that adhere to these principles are more stable and less corrupt. According to a World Bank analysis from 2022, nations that follow Islamic financial principles are 25% more resilient economically amid global financial crises. This illustrates how Islamic civilization, when grounded in the principles of the Quran, promotes economic growth and political stability, guaranteeing the long-term well-being of the whole population.
- Technological Advancement
Furthermore, Islamic culture and civilization, inspired by the Quran’s focus on knowledge (Ilm), exploration, and creativity, have made a substantial contribution to technological improvement. The Quran promotes advancements in science by saying, “Say, Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” (Surah Az-Zumar 39:9), highlighting the importance of learning and discovery. A UNESCO assessment from 2021 states that Muslim scientists conserved and extended more than 70% of medieval, classical scientific writings, which had a direct impact on the European Renaissance. Nonetheless, Muslim-majority nations that invest in education and technology now see industrial growth that is 35% quicker than that of non-Muslim nations (World Economic Forum, 2022). This illustrates how Islamic culture advances technology and enhances human existence when it preserves its rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
B-Negative impacts
- Social divisions and political decline
Although civilization and culture are necessary for the advancement of society, when they are abused or controlled, they may also fuel social discord and political downfall. Sectarian disputes, discrimination, and societal dispersion are frequently caused by cultural and ideological differences. Furthermore, political decline is frequently experienced by civilizations that do not foster inclusive government and societal peace, as seen by the fall of major empires as a result of internal conflicts and power struggles. Nonetheless, politically unstable countries with significant social differences see an average 45% drop in economic development and a 30% decrease in foreign investments as a result of uncertainty and conflict, according to the World Bank (2021). Polarization is made worse by the exploitation of cultural identity for political ends, which erodes national cohesion and governance. Therefore, even while civilization and culture are strong drivers of advancement, improper handling of them can result in political decay and fragmentation, which threatens the well-being of society as a whole.
- Economic stagnation and religious extremism
Moreover, slow development and unstable finances are common in societies that are unable to strike a balance between economic innovation and cultural norms. A World Bank research from 2022 states that countries with political instability and inflexible sociocultural institutions have an average GDP growth rate that is 40% lower than that of countries that adopt progressive economic policies. Furthermore, as seen in areas impacted by extremism, the exploitation of religious belief for political and extremist ends can destabilize countries. Economic downturns create a vicious cycle of instability by restricting access to jobs and education, which in turn feeds extremism. Therefore, civilizations run the risk of ideological extremism and stagnation when they are unable to combine economic flexibility with religious tolerance, which would have a detrimental impact on collective life.
- Technological resistance and abuse
Besides these, rigid beliefs and traditional cultural norms frequently foster opposition to new technology, which impedes economic progress and innovation. A 2022 World Economic Forum research states that civilizations that are more resistant to adopting new technologies have 25% lower productivity rates and 30% slower industrial growth than those that embrace innovation. Furthermore, when technology is abused, it can result in ethical transgressions, criminality, and monitoring. According to a UNESCO report from 2021, more than 60% of cybercrime incidences worldwide take place in technologically sophisticated but unethically uncontrolled settings, causing social and economic harm. Because developing countries find it difficult to adopt contemporary technology, the digital divide makes inequality even worse by increasing the gap between advanced and lagging civilizations. As a result, even while technology is necessary for advancement, cultural and civilizational resistance or abuse can result in exploitation, stagnation, and moral quandaries, all of which have a detrimental effect on society as a whole.
Explaining the foundations of modern civilization
- Scientific and Technological Advancements
First, advances in science and technology constitute the foundation of contemporary society, propelling developments in communication, industry, and healthcare. Global R&D spending now exceeds $2.4 trillion a year, reflecting the exponential growth in productivity brought about by innovations from the Industrial Revolution to the digital era (UNESCO, 2022). Global life expectancy has increased from 45 years in 1950 to over 73 years in the present due to medical advancements, while internet connection is now available to 65% of the world’s population (ITU, 2022), transforming global connectedness. Science and technology are the foundation of contemporary civilization because of these developments, which continue to influence economies, raise living standards, and reshape human interaction.
Democratic Governance and Political Systems
Second, modern civilization cannot exist without democratic political institutions and governance, which not only guarantee stability, accountability, and public engagement but also encourage socioeconomic inequalities. Democracy, which is based on the ideas of human rights, the rule of law, and institutional checks and balances, has been associated with greater social and economic advancement. The World Bank (2022) reports that as compared to authoritarian governments, democratic countries have 35% more political stability and 20% higher GDP per capita. Furthermore, democratic regimes encourage openness, which lowers corruption and increases confidence in the government. These systems continue to be crucial for social advancement and sustainable development since more than 60% of the world’s population lives under democratic administration (Pew Research Center, 2023).
Economic Systems and Capitalism
In addition to these previous concepts, economic systems—capitalism in particular—have propelled modern civilization by encouraging creativity, rivalry, and the generation of wealth. More than 80% of the world’s GDP comes from capitalist economies (World Bank, 2023), which has raised living standards and brought forth previously unheard-of technical advancement. Unchecked capitalism, however, has also fueled materialism, increased the wealth gap, and put profit ahead of morality, all of which have contributed to social and moral deterioration. According to studies, the wealthiest 1% own about half of the world’s wealth, which exacerbates economic inequality (Oxfam, 2023). Furthermore, traditional values and communal ties have been undermined by excessive materialism and corporate exploitation. Even if capitalism promotes advancement, a and sustainable society nonetheless depends on striking a balance between economic expansion and moral obligation.
Highlighting the problems caused by modern civilization
- Moral and Ethical Decline Leading Social Inequality
With plenty of benefits, Modern civilization has some serious drawbacks. First of all, modern civilization has exacerbated social disparity by contributing to moral and ethical deterioration in addition to technological advancement and economic gain. Traditional values have been undermined by the growth of materialism and individualism, which has led to corporate greed and economic inequality. The richest 1% own about half of the world’s wealth, while billions live in poverty, according to Oxfam (2023). Unchecked capitalism puts profit ahead of morality, which breeds corruption, worker exploitation, and a loss of social responsibility. Furthermore, communal divides, family dissolutions, and an increase in crime have all been exacerbated by the decline of moral standards. Modern civilization runs the risk of deteriorating social cohesiveness and escalating social inequity in the absence of ethical balance.
- Political Corruption and Economic exploitation Leading to Consumerism and Instability
Second, economic exploitation and political corruption have been encouraged by modern civilization, which has increased consumption and fueled social unrest. Unchecked political regimes frequently prioritize corporate interests over the general benefit, which results in social inequality and wealth concentration. Transparency International (2023) estimates that corruption costs the world economy more than $3.6 trillion a year, taking funds away from vital services. Aggressive capitalism also encourages excessive consumption, putting profit ahead of sustainability, which fuels economic instability and environmental deterioration. According to studies, countries with high levels of corruption have 35% more wealth disparity and 40% slower economic development (World Bank, 2022). Modern civilization runs the risk of escalating social discontent and enduring instability in the absence of accountability and moral governance.
Loss of Cultural and Religious Identity leading to Mental Health and Psychological Issues
Third, rapid globalization and secularization in modern society have resulted in a loss of cultural and religious identity, which has exacerbated psychological and mental health problems. People experience more loneliness and identity issues when traditional values are undermined by materialism and digital culture. The World Health Organization (2023) reports that anxiety and despair have increased by 25% worldwide during the last ten years, especially in places whose culture is collapsing. Suicide rates rise as a result of resistance being weakened by the loss of social and spiritual support networks. Civilization risks increasing psychological suffering and societal disintegration if modernization and cultural identity are not balanced.
- Technological Dependence and Global Conflicts Leading Ethical Dilemmas and Power Struggles
Fourth, power struggles and ethical quandaries have escalated due to modern civilization’s reliance on technology and international wars, changing social and geopolitical dynamics. Although it has fueled advancement, advanced technology has also made widespread monitoring, cyber warfare, and AI-driven employment displacement possible, which raises significant ethical questions. By 2025, cybercrime is predicted to undermine security and confidence and cost the world economy $10.5 trillion yearly, according to Cybersecurity Ventures (2023). Furthermore, states’ use of economic sanctions and digital warfare exacerbates geopolitical tensions brought on by technical dominance. Unchecked competition for technical supremacy might result in ethical crises in social justice, governance, and warfare and a worsening of global disparities.
Critical Analysis
Critically, civilization and culture are essential factors influencing society as a whole; civilization stands for institutional frameworks and material advancement, while culture embodies customs, values, and social mores. Modern civilization’s pillars, economic systems, democratic government, and scientific discoveries have sparked previously unheard-of development, enhancing political stability, connection, and global health. But modernity has also weakened cultural and ethical roots by causing excessive materialism, social inequity, and moral decay. Social discontent has been exacerbated by corruption, an excessive reliance on technology, and the breakdown of religious and community identities. Modernity must be balanced with ethical and cultural values to ensure social peace and sustained growth.
Conclusion
To cut it Short, culture and civilization are intricately linked and influence the development and unity of communities. Culture upholds moral principles and social identity, while civilization advances structures and technology. Modern civilisation has greatly enhanced human existence, which is based on advancements in science, democratic government, and economic systems. But it has also resulted in cultural deterioration, economic inequality, and moral decay, posing moral conundrums and societal difficulties. A civilization that prioritizes both monetary achievement and human well-being must be fostered by integrating financial and technical advancement with cultural preservation and ethical responsibility to guarantee a balanced and sustainable future.
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