UPSC_CS MAINS 2017 Paper IV

“Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good orvery bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.”–Napoleon Bonaparte. Stating examples mention the rulers (i) who have harmed society and country, (ii) who worked for the development of society and country.

Points to Remember: Napoleon’s quote highlights the duality of ambition: it can be a force for good or evil depending on the guiding principles. Examples are needed to illustrate rulers who used ambition for societal harm and societal benefit. The response should analyze the impact of ambition on leadership and governance. Introduction: Napoleon Bonaparte’s assertion … Read more

“If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. they are father, the mother and the teacher.”–A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. Analyse.

Points to Remember: The role of parents (father and mother) in shaping ethical values and character. The crucial role of teachers in fostering intellectual development and ethical conduct. The interconnectedness of family, education, and a corruption-free society. The limitations of solely relying on these three societal members. The need for systemic changes and broader societal … Read more

Discipline generally implies following the order and subordination. However, it may be counter-productive for the organisation. Discuss.

Points to Remember: Discipline’s dual nature: Order and subordination vs. potential counter-productivity. Factors influencing discipline’s effectiveness: Leadership style, organizational culture, employee engagement. Negative consequences of excessive or inappropriate discipline: Reduced morale, stifled innovation, increased turnover. Balancing discipline with autonomy and empowerment: Finding the optimal level of control. Introduction: Discipline, in an organizational context, typically refers … Read more

Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when(a) official duties,(b) public interest, and(c) personal interest are taking priority one above the other. How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.

Points to Remember: Conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal interests clash with their official duties and the public interest. Transparency, robust ethical codes, and effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for resolving conflicts of interest. Independent oversight bodies and strong whistleblower protection are essential. Introduction: Conflict of interest in the public sector is a … Read more

Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (a) Transparency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) Spirit of service

Points to Remember: The relevance of transparency, accountability, fairness and justice, courage of conviction, and spirit of service to the effectiveness and integrity of the civil service. The interconnectedness of these values and their contribution to public trust and good governance. Potential challenges in upholding these values and strategies for improvement. Introduction: A robust and … Read more

One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example.

Points to Remember: Integrity: Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. Compromise: To settle a dispute by mutual concession; to endanger the safety or well-being of. Refusal to be compromised: Unyielding adherence to principles even under pressure. Introduction: Integrity is a cornerstone of ethical conduct, representing unwavering adherence to moral principles … Read more

Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustainable. Analyse.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), profitability, sustainability, analysis. Required Approach: Analytical. The question requires a balanced assessment of the relationship between CSR and profitability/sustainability, examining both supporting and opposing arguments. Points to Remember: Definition of CSR and its various dimensions. Evidence linking CSR to improved financial performance. Evidence suggesting a lack of correlation or even … Read more

Strength, peace and security are considered to be the pillars of international relations. Elucidate.

Points to Remember: Strength (national power): Military, economic, diplomatic capabilities. Peace: Absence of conflict, cooperation, diplomacy. Security: Protection from threats, both internal and external. Interdependence: States’ reliance on each other. International organizations: Role in maintaining peace and security. Introduction: International relations (IR) theory grapples with the complex interplay between states, aiming to understand cooperation and … Read more

“If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. they are father, the mother and the teacher.”–A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. Analyse.

Points to Remember: The role of parents (father and mother) in shaping a child’s character and values. The crucial role of teachers in imparting knowledge, ethics, and critical thinking. The interconnectedness of family, education, and national integrity. The limitations of solely relying on these three societal members. The need for systemic changes and broader societal … Read more

“Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good orvery bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.”–Napoleon Bonaparte. Stating examples mention the rulers (i) who have harmed society and country, (ii) who worked for the development of society and country.

Points to Remember: Napoleon’s quote highlights the duality of ambition: it can be a force for good or evil depending on the guiding principles. The question requires examples of rulers whose ambition led to societal harm and societal development. The response needs a balanced perspective, showcasing both positive and negative impacts of ambition in leadership. … Read more