UPSC_CS MAINS 2013 Paper IV – Page 2

Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

Points to Remember: Social capital is built on trust, reciprocity, and networks. It strengthens communities and facilitates collective action. Good governance relies on citizen participation and accountability. Social capital enhances good governance by fostering these elements. Introduction: Social capital, a term gaining increasing prominence in social science and political discourse, refers to the networks of … Read more

âThere is enough on this earth for every oneâs need but for no oneâs greed.â-Mahatma Gandhi

Points to Remember: Mahatma Gandhi’s quote highlights the disparity between resource availability and human consumption driven by greed. The quote emphasizes sustainable resource management and equitable distribution. Addressing the issue requires a multi-pronged approach involving individual responsibility, government policies, and global cooperation. Introduction: Mahatma Gandhi’s profound statement, “There is enough on this earth for everyone’s … Read more

(b) Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service. Justify your answer.

Points to Remember: Two additional crucial attributes for public service beyond those already discussed (assumed in the context of the larger question). Justification for each attribute’s importance. Introduction: Effective public service is the cornerstone of a well-functioning society. While attributes like integrity and impartiality are widely acknowledged as essential, a truly effective public servant needs … Read more

What do you understand by the term âvoice of conscienceâ? How do you prepare yourself to heed to the voice of conscience?

Points to Remember: Definition and understanding of “voice of conscience.” Internal and external factors influencing conscience. Methods for strengthening and heeding the voice of conscience. Practical application and potential challenges. Introduction: The “voice of conscience” refers to an inner sense of right and wrong, a moral compass guiding individual behavior and decisions. It’s not a … Read more

What is meant by âcrisis of conscienceâ? Narrate one incident in your life when you were faced with such a crisis and how you resolved the same.

Points to Remember: Definition of “crisis of conscience.” Personal experience with a crisis of conscience. The process of resolving the crisis. Ethical considerations and decision-making. Introduction: A “crisis of conscience” refers to a situation where an individual experiences a deep internal conflict between their personal values, moral principles, and the demands of a particular situation … Read more

What is âemotional intelligenceâ and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions?

Points to Remember: Definition and components of emotional intelligence (EQ). Methods for developing EQ. The link between EQ and ethical decision-making. Practical examples and case studies. Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EQ) refers to the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges … Read more

It is often said that âpoliticsâ and âethics do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustration.

Points to Remember: The inherent tension between political expediency and ethical conduct. Examples of ethical lapses in politics. Instances of ethical behavior in politics. The importance of ethical leadership in fostering trust and good governance. The role of institutions and laws in promoting ethical conduct in politics. Introduction: The assertion that “politics and ethics do … Read more

âThe good of an individual is contained in the good of all.â what do you understand by this statement?How can this principle be implemented in public life?

Points to Remember: The interconnectedness of individual and collective well-being. The ethical implications of prioritizing collective good. Mechanisms for implementing this principle in public policy and individual actions. Challenges and potential drawbacks of prioritizing collective good. Introduction: The statement “The good of an individual is contained in the good of all” encapsulates a core principle … Read more

What do you understand by âValuesâ and âEthicsâ? In what way is it important to be ethical along with being professionally competent?

Points to Remember: Values are deeply held beliefs about what is good, right, and desirable. Ethics are principles of right conduct, guiding behavior and decision-making. Professional competence without ethical considerations can be detrimental. Ethical behavior enhances trust, reputation, and overall societal well-being. Introduction: “Values” and “ethics” are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct yet … Read more

Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due justification.

Points to Remember: The debate surrounding the changeability of values: Are values relative or absolute? Arguments for the relativity of values: societal influence, cultural differences, individual experiences. Arguments for the universality of values: inherent human nature, shared human experiences, ethical frameworks. Justification for a balanced perspective: acknowledging both the dynamism and stability of values. Introduction: … Read more