Question

Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): Belgium’s power sharing arrangements were designed to accommodate its linguistic and cultural divisions.
Reason (R): Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional differences and cultural diversities.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Hint:

Belgium resolved its linguistic conflicts by adopting a {power-sharing system} that ensured equal representation of different communities in the government.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Belgium is a country with diverse linguistic and cultural communities, mainly the Dutch-speaking, French-speaking, and German-speaking populations. To maintain peace and stability, Belgium adopted a system of power sharing that accommodated these differences.
Step 1: Analyze the Assertion (A).
Belgium introduced a unique power-sharing arrangement to address conflicts among different linguistic groups. This system ensured equal representation and participation of different communities in governance. Therefore, Assertion (A) is true.
Step 2: Analyze the Reason (R).
Belgian leaders understood that their country had significant linguistic and cultural diversity. Recognizing these differences helped them design a political system that would fairly represent all communities. Thus, Reason (R) is also true.
Step 3: Determine the relationship between (A) and (R).
The recognition of regional and cultural differences by Belgian leaders led them to create a power-sharing system that could accommodate these divisions. Hence, Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A).