General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
The OECD's shift to measuring **well-being** rather than just GDP is part of which broader initiative?
Answer:
The Better Life Initiative.
The Better Life Initiative seeks to broaden the focus of national policy-making beyond purely economic indicators.
2
What is the primary function of the **OECD's Public Governance** work area?
Answer:
Advising governments on improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency of public administration and budgeting.
This area focuses on strengthening trust in government and improving the quality of public services.
3
The OECD’s **Ministerial Council Meeting (MCM)** is the annual high-level gathering where members:
Answer:
Review the current global economic situation and set the strategic direction for the organization.
The MCM is the annual event where ministers establish the high-level priorities and work plan.
4
The OECD works to promote **good regulatory practice** among its members by advocating for:
Answer:
Regulations that are efficient, evidence-based, coherent, and transparent.
Good regulatory practice is crucial for fostering innovation, competitiveness, and effective governance.
5
The OECD’s work on **Development Co-operation** increasingly focuses on which type of financing, beyond traditional ODA?
Answer:
Mobilizing private finance and innovative financing mechanisms for sustainable development.
The global financial need for the SDGs far exceeds ODA alone, requiring the strategic mobilization of private capital.
6
The **OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises** are influential recommendations addressed by governments to MNEs operating in or from adhering countries on what area?
Answer:
Responsible business conduct (e.g., human rights, environment, labor relations, and anti-corruption).
These are non-binding principles for responsible corporate behavior.
7
What is the primary purpose of the **OECD Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes**?
Answer:
To ensure effective implementation of international standards for the exchange of tax information between countries.
The Global Forum is a major multilateral mechanism for fighting tax evasion and avoidance.
8
The **OECD Principles of Corporate Governance** are highly influential in guiding companies and governments on issues of:
Answer:
Shareholders' rights, board responsibilities, and transparency of corporate operations.
These non-binding principles are the global benchmark for sound corporate governance.
9
The OECD works extensively on **Innovation Policy**, advising governments on how to promote:
Answer:
Scientific research, technological development, and the diffusion of new technologies.
Innovation is considered a key driver of productivity and long-term economic growth.
10
What instrument, adopted by the OECD in 1997, criminalizes the offering of bribes to foreign public officials in international business transactions?
Answer:
The OECD Anti-Bribery Convention
This is a landmark agreement that compels countries to criminalize the bribery of foreign officials.