UPSC_CS MAINS 2018 Paper IV

State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance.

Points to Remember: Three basic universal values in civil services: Integrity, Impartiality, and Accountability. Importance of each value in ensuring effective and ethical governance. Consequences of lacking these values. Introduction: The civil services form the backbone of any effective and just government. Their actions directly impact the lives of citizens, making ethical conduct paramount. While … Read more

Distinguish between “Code of ethics” and“Code of conduct” with suitable examples.

Points to Remember: Code of Ethics: Broad principles guiding moral behavior and decision-making. Focuses on values and ideals. Code of Conduct: Specific rules and regulations dictating acceptable behavior. Focuses on actions and compliance. Key difference lies in their scope and enforceability. Introduction: Both Codes of Ethics and Codes of Conduct are crucial for maintaining ethical … Read more

What is mean by public interest? What are the principles and procedures to be followed by the civil servants in public interest?

Points to Remember: Public interest is a broad concept encompassing the well-being and welfare of the general public. Civil servants have a duty to act in the public interest, guided by principles of impartiality, accountability, and transparency. Procedures for acting in the public interest involve ethical considerations, legal frameworks, and internal guidelines. Introduction: The concept … Read more

“An unexamined life is not worth living.”–Socrates

Points to Remember: Socrates’s famous quote emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and critical thinking. Examining one’s life involves introspection, moral reasoning, and a pursuit of knowledge. The quote’s meaning can be interpreted on individual and societal levels. A fulfilling life requires conscious effort and engagement with the world. Introduction: Socrates, a prominent figure in ancient … Read more

“Falsehood takes the place of truth when it results in unblemished common good.”-Tirukkural

Keywords: Falsehood, truth, common good, Tirukkural, ethical dilemma. Required Approach: Analytical and ethical. The question requires an analysis of the ethical implications of prioritizing the common good over strict adherence to truth. Points to Remember: The inherent conflict between truth and the common good. The potential justifications for prioritizing the common good over truth. The … Read more

Anger and intolerance are the enemies of correct understanding. “-Mahatma Gandhi

Points to Remember: The corrosive effects of anger and intolerance on rational thought and understanding. The importance of empathy, patience, and open-mindedness in fostering constructive dialogue. The role of education and societal structures in mitigating anger and intolerance. The connection between anger/intolerance and societal problems like violence and discrimination. Strategies for promoting tolerance and understanding. … Read more

“The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject anything, is not whether it has any evil in it; but whether it has more evil than good. There are few things wholly evil or wholly good. Almost everything,especially of governmental policy, is an inseparable compound of the two; so that our best judgement of the preponderance between them is continually demanded.”-Abraham Lincoln.

Points to Remember: Lincoln’s quote emphasizes the pragmatic approach to policymaking. Most governmental policies have both positive and negative consequences. Effective policy requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. The focus should be on maximizing net positive outcomes. Introduction: Abraham Lincoln’s quote highlights a fundamental challenge in governance: the inherent complexity of policy evaluation. Rarely are policies … Read more

“In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence and energy. And if they do not have the first, the other two will kill you.”–Warren Buffett. What do you understand by this statement in the present-day scenario? Explain.

Points to Remember: Integrity as the foundational quality for hiring. The destructive potential of intelligence and energy without integrity. The relevance of Buffett’s statement in the modern workplace. The need for ethical leadership and responsible decision-making. Introduction: Warren Buffett’s quote, “In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. … Read more

“In doing a good thing, everything is permitted which is not prohibited expressly or by clear implication”. Examine the statement with suitable examples in the context of a public servant discharging his/her duties.

Points to Remember: The statement implies a broad interpretation of permissible actions for a public servant. The focus is on the absence of explicit prohibition rather than positive authorization. Balancing the “good” intended with potential unintended consequences is crucial. Ethical considerations and legal frameworks are paramount. Introduction: The statement “In doing a good thing, everything … Read more

Explain the process of resolving ethical dilemmas in Public Administration.

Points to Remember: Ethical dilemmas in public administration arise from conflicts between public interest, personal values, and organizational pressures. Resolution requires a systematic approach involving identifying the dilemma, gathering information, considering various perspectives, and selecting a course of action. Transparency, accountability, and fairness are crucial throughout the process. Ethical codes, policies, and training play a … Read more