UPSC_CS MAINS 2015 Paper IV

“The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of strong.”

Points to Remember: Forgiveness as a strength vs. weakness. Psychological and social implications of forgiveness. The role of power dynamics in forgiveness. Exceptions and complexities of forgiveness. Introduction: The quote “The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of the strong” presents a provocative assertion about the nature of forgiveness and its relationship to … Read more

“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light”

Points to Remember: The quote highlights the importance of facing truth and reality. Childhood fears are understandable, but adult fear of truth is a significant problem. The “light” represents truth, knowledge, and accountability. The “darkness” represents ignorance, denial, and avoidance of responsibility. Introduction: Plato’s famous quote, “We can easily forgive a child who is afraid … Read more

At the international level, bilateral relations between most nations are governed on the policy of promoting one’s own national interest without any regard for the interest of other nations. This lead to conflicts and tension between the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions?Discuss with specific examples.

Points to Remember: National interest vs. international cooperation Ethical considerations in foreign policy Conflict resolution mechanisms Role of international organizations Examples of successful and unsuccessful ethical approaches in international relations Introduction: International relations are often characterized by a pursuit of national self-interest, sometimes at the expense of other nations’ interests. This realist perspective, while acknowledging … Read more

Public servants are likely to confront with the issues of “Conflict of Interest”. What do you understand by the term “Conflict of Interest”and how does it manifest in the decision making by public servants? If faced with the conflict of interest situation how would you resolve it? Explain with the help of examples.

Points to Remember: Definition and understanding of Conflict of Interest (COI). Manifestations of COI in public servant decision-making. Mechanisms for resolving COI situations. Examples illustrating COI and its resolution. Introduction: Conflict of Interest (COI) is a situation in which a public servant’s personal interests, or the interests of their family or close associates, could improperly … Read more

(b) Suggest more effective strategies to tackle this menace.

This question requires an analytical approach, focusing on identifying and evaluating strategies to combat a previously defined “menace.” The keywords are “effective strategies,” “tackle,” and “menace.” The answer will need to propose solutions and analyze their potential effectiveness. Because the specific “menace” is not defined, this response will offer a general framework applicable to various … Read more

Some recent developments such as introduction of RTI Act, media and judicial activism, etc. are proving helpful in bringing about greater transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government. However, it is also being observed that at times the mechanisms are misused. Another negative effect is that the officers are now afraid to take prompt decisions. Analyse the situation in detail and suggest how the dichotomy can be resolved. Suggest how these negative impacts can be minimized.

Points to Remember: Increased transparency and accountability in government functioning due to RTI, media, and judicial activism. Misuse of these mechanisms and resulting fear among officers to take prompt decisions. Need to analyze the situation and suggest solutions to minimize negative impacts. Introduction: The introduction of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, coupled with increased … Read more

Today we find that in-spite of various measures of prescribing codes of conduct, setting up vigilance cells/commissions, RTI, active media and strengthening of legal mechanism, corrupt practices are not coming under control.

Points to Remember: Prevalence of corruption despite anti-corruption measures. Ineffectiveness of existing mechanisms. Need for systemic reforms and strengthened enforcement. Importance of citizen participation and ethical leadership. Introduction: Corruption, the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, remains a persistent global challenge. Despite significant investments in anti-corruption measures – including codes of conduct, vigilance cells, … Read more

(a) Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures with justifications.

This question requires an analytical approach. The keywords are “evaluate” and “effectiveness,” indicating a need to assess the impact of unspecified “measures.” To answer effectively, we need the specific measures to be evaluated. Therefore, this response will provide a framework for answering the question once the measures are identified. Points to Remember: Identify the specific … Read more

(ii) an act is legally right, but not ethically.

Points to Remember: Distinction between legality and morality. Examples of acts that are legal but ethically questionable. The role of ethics in shaping laws. Potential consequences of prioritizing legality over ethics. Introduction: The question explores the crucial distinction between legality and ethics – two distinct but interconnected concepts governing human behavior. Legality refers to conformity … Read more

How do the virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude get manifested in public service? Explain with examples

Points to Remember: Trustworthiness in public service involves honesty, integrity, and accountability. Fortitude in public service involves courage, resilience, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Both virtues are essential for effective and ethical governance. Introduction: Public service demands a high degree of ethical conduct and unwavering commitment. Two crucial virtues underpinning effective and ethical … Read more