Ethics & Human Interface
Editor’s Pick
- Do you agree that ethical principles cannot be universally applied to all individuals at all times? (200 words)
- Why is compassion towards the weaker sections of society essential and non-negotiable in a country like India? Discuss with relevant examples. (200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- All human beings aspire for happiness. Do you agree? What does happiness mean to you? Explain with examples. (150 words)[UPSC 2014] 10
- Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well-being.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major components of Comprehensive National Power (CNP) viz. human capital, soft power (culture and policies) and social harmony. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
Essence
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
Determinants & Consequences of Ethics in Human Actions
Editor’s Pick
- What ethical principles govern scientific research and experimentation? Illustrate with examples. (200 words)
- The principle of double effect suggests that if someone’s actions are intended to achieve a morally good outcome, even if they lead to an unintended negative side effect, the action can still be morally acceptable. How effective is this principle in resolving complex moral dilemmas? Discuss with relevant examples. (Answer in 150 words)
- The Indian Republic adopted Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem to symbolize the harmony he achieved and to maintain continuity with his compassionate policies towards the people of modern India. In this context, discuss the ethical lessons that resonate in Ashoka’s life.
- Examine the impact of moral attitudes on the perception and response to marital rape in India. Discuss the ethical implications of criminalizing marital rape in the country. (Answer in 150 words)
- In addition to awareness, one must have a sense of conscience to make ethical decisions. Explain with appropriate examples. (Answer in 150 words)
UPSC PYQs
- It is believed that adherence to ethics in human actions would ensure in smooth functioning of an organization/system. If so, what does ethics seek to promote in human life? How do ethical values assist in the resolution of conflicts faced by him in his day-to-day functioning? (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan?(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
Dimensions of Ethics
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
- Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face persecution or human right violation. Examine the statement with reference to ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with open society. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What is meant by ‘environmental ethics? Why is it important to study? Discuss any one environmental issue from the viewpoint of environmental ethics. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Differentiate between the following : (1) Law and Ethics (ii) Ethical management and Management of ethics (iii) Discrimination and Preferential treatment (iv) Personal ethics and Professional ethics (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
Ethics – in Private & Public Relationships
Editor’s Pick
- How do ethical considerations influence the management of public relations in a private organization? (200 words)
- What ethical issues arise from using surveillance technology to monitor employee performance in the private sector? How can companies strike a balance between respecting employee privacy and effectively tracking performance? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
Human Values
Editor’s Pick
- Probity encompasses more than simply avoiding corrupt or dishonest behavior. Discuss with appropriate examples.(200 Words)
- How can behavioral nudges contribute to attitudinal change towards sustainable development? Illustrate with examples. (200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- The current society is plagued with widespread trust-deficit. What are the consequences of this situation for personal well-being and for societal well-being? What can you do at the personal level to make yourself trustworthy? (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
- Integrity is a value that empowers the human being. Justify with suitable illustration. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- ‘The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are often in conflict with traditional values.’ Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- The crisis of ethical values in modern times is traced to a narrow perception of the good life. Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Social values are more important than economic values. Discuss the above statement with examples in the context of the inclusive growth of a nation. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
- What does ethics seek to promote in human life? Why is it all the more important in public administration? (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers & Administrators
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
- Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, it is better for us all. -Erik Erikson (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- “Education is not an injunction, it is an effective and pervasive tool for all round development of an individual and social transformation”. Examine the New Education Policy, 2020 (NEP, 2020) in light of the above statement. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India? Discuss the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- “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. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- 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 the father, the mother, and the teacher. -A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Analyse. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings. Giving specific examples, describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development. (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
Role of Family Society & Educational Institutions
Editor’s Pick
- What are the key factors influencing the development of attitudes in individuals during the socialization process? (200 Words)
- How does attitude influence the way we perceive and interact with the world around us? (200 Words)
- How can families successfully instill core moral values in a world increasingly shaped by digital influences?(200 Words)
- What factors shape an individual’s attitude, and how can persuasion be used to influence or change it?(200 Words)
- How can formal education in India address family-based learning biases and encourage independent thinking? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
Attitude
Editor’s Pick
- How does attitude influence our perceptions and interactions with the world around us? (200 Words)
- What factors contribute to the formation of attitudes in individuals during the socialization process? (200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- ‘Hatred is destructive of a person’s wisdom and conscience that can poison a nation’s spirit.’ Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- A positive attitude is considered to be an essential characteristic of a civil servant who is often required to function under extreme stress. What contributes to a positive attitude in a person? (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped unconsciously by the family and the social surroundings in which we grow up. Some of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and values are often undesirable in the citizens of a modern democratic and egalitarian society.
- What factors affect the formation of a person’s attitude towards social problems? In our society, contrasting attitudes are prevalent about many social problems. What contrasting attitudes do you notice about the caste system in our society? How do you explain the existence of these contrasting attitudes? (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
- Two different kinds of attitudes exhibited by public servants towards their work have been identified as the bureaucratic attitude and the democratic attitude. a. Distinguish between these two terms and write their merits and demerits. b. Is it possible to balance the two to create a better administration for the faster development of our country? (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
Aptitude
Editor’s Pick
- Leaders who possess strength and determination are well-recognized by all, and they are the ones people rely on during times of crisis. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
- Impartiality is recognized as a crucial ethical value in public service, but it should not be viewed as excluding compassion in the delivery of public services. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
- Unaddressed prejudice and discrimination can escalate conflicts into violent situations. Discuss, using examples. (Answer in 150 words)
- Non-violence represents the highest expression of fundamental moral virtue. Comment. (Answer in 150 words)
UPSC PYQs
Foundational Values for Civil Service
Editor’s Pick
- Fortitude is the foundation and strength of other virtues. Discuss its relevance in the context of civil services in India. (200 words)
- In addition to neutrality and non-partisanship, how do values such as tolerance and inclusion contribute to the competence of civil servants in a diverse country like India? Explain with relevant examples.(200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society? (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Apart from intellectual competency and moral qualities, empathy and compassion are some of the other vital attributes that facilitate the civil servants to be more competent in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical decisions. Explain with suitable illustrations. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in the public servants. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered as indispensable qualities to make a successful civil servant? Discuss with illustrations. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- What is meant by public interest ? What are the principles and procedures to be followed by the civil servants in public interest? (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (150 words) [UPSC 2017] (a) Transparency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) Spirit of service
- Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context? Illustrate your answer with examples.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- How can such undesirable attitudes be changed and socio-ethical values considered necessary in public services be cultivated in the aspiring and serving civil servants?(150 words) [UPSC 2016] 10
- A mere compliance with law is not enough, the public servant also has to have a well-developed sensibility to ethical issues for effective discharge of duties. Do you agree? Explain with the help of two examples, where (i) an act is ethically right, but not legally and (ii) an act is legally right, but not ethically. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
Emotional Intelligence
Editor’s Pick
- How does emotional intelligence play a role in managing conflicts in the workplace, especially in administrative roles? (200 Words)
- Conflicts are an unavoidable aspect of workplace dynamics, including in administrative roles. How does emotional intelligence contribute to effective conflict management in such settings? (200 Words)
- Do you agree with the view that emotional intelligence becomes more important as one ascends in an organization? Provide reasons to support your answer.(200 Words)
- Do you agree that emotional intelligence is not solely an innate trait but can be developed and enhanced over time?(200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- “What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements is a definite set of emotional skills. your EQ-not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests.” Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- In case of crisis of conscience does emotional intelligence help to overcome the same without compromising the ethical or moral stand that you are likely to follow? Critically examine. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What are the main components of emotional intelligence (EI)? Can they be learned? Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Emotional Intelligence is the ability to make your emotions work for you instead of against you. Do you agree with this view? Discuss.(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices? (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Anger is a harmful negative emotion. It is injurious to both personal life and work life.
- Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable behaviours.
- How can it be managed and controlled? (150 words) [UPSC 2016] 10
Moral Thinkers & Philosophers
Editor’s Pick
- What is the significance of the ‘Noble Eightfold Path’ of Buddhism for public services in India? (200 words)
- What does the following quotation convey to you in the present context?
- What message does the following quotation convey to you in the current context? (200 Words)
- Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” Henry Ford
- “Laws are silent in times of war.”
- “We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility.” – Rabindranath Tagore(200 Words)
- “In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher” – Dalai Lama(200 Words)
- “Many of our most serious conflicts are conflicts within ourselves. Those who suppose their judgements are always consistent are unreflective or dogmatic.” – John Rawls(200 Words)
- What are the main teachings of Sri Aurobindo, and how are they relevant in today’s world?(200 Words)
- What is the implication of Albert Einstein’s statement, “Relativity applies to physics, not ethics”?
- What did Thomas Hobbes mean by “The law is the public conscience”?
- In what ways can Kautilya’s Arthashastra provide guidance for today’s leaders in achieving ethical and effective governance? (200 words)
- How do the profound teachings of Kabir offer a moral compass to help individuals navigate the challenges of the modern world? Discuss. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context? (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- “Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do.” -Potter Stewart (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later. -Swami Vivekananda (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves. -Dalai Lama (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- What do each of the following quotations mean to you?
- What do each of the following quotations mean to you?
- An unexamined life is not worth living. Socrates(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- “The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject any thing, 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 every thing, especially of governmental policy, is an inseparable compound of the two; so that our best judgment of the preponderance between them is continually demanded.”-Abraham Lincoln (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them. – Napoleon Bonaparte. Stating examples mention the rulers (i) who have harmed society and country, and (ii) who worked for the development of society and country. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of seven sins.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Analyse John Rawls’s concept of social justice in the Indian context.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, administrative inefficiency and obstruction in the path of national development. Discuss Kautilya’s views.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is important to realise that the State bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality. Critically analyse this statement.(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful. What do you understand by this statement? Explain your stand with illustrations from the modern context. (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
- Human beings should always be treated as ‘ends’ in themselves and never as merely ‘means’. Explain the meaning and significance of this statement, giving its implications in the modern techno-economic society. (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
- The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
- 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. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
Ethics in Public Administration
Editor’s Pick
- Explain the importance of objectivity and impartiality in the operations of civil services. (200 words)
- What ethical challenges do public servants in India encounter while performing their duties, and how can these challenges be addressed? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Discipline generally implies following the order and subordination. However, it may be counter-productive for the organization. Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- How do the virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude get manifested in public service? Explain with examples. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
- There is a heavy ethical responsibility on the public servants because they occupy positions of power, handle huge amounts of public funds, and their decisions have wide-ranging impact on society and environment. What steps have you taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility? (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
Ethical Concerns & Dilemmas
Editor’s Pick
- What are the potential factors contributing to the higher levels of loneliness experienced by Generation Z compared to previous generations? (200 Words)
- What are the ethical considerations surrounding whistleblowing in the workplace? How can an environment be fostered that encourages ethical reporting while minimizing the fear of retaliation?(200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- Online methodology is being used for day-to-day meetings, institutional approvals in the administration and for teaching and learning in education sector to the extent telemedicine in the health sector is getting popular with the approvals of the competent authority. No doubt, it has advantages and disadvantages for both the beneficiaries and the system at large. Describe and discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of online method particularly to the vulnerable section of the society. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Whistle-blower, who reports corruption and illegal activities, wrongdoing and misconduct to the concerned authorities, runs the risk of being exposed to grave danger, physical harm and victimization by the vested interests, accused persons and his team. What policy measures would you suggest to strengthen protection mechanism to safeguard the whistle-blower? (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Impact of digital technology as reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable example. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with suitable example. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? How does it manifest itself in the public domain?(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- What is meant by conflict of interest? Illustrate with examples, the difference between the actual and potential conflicts of interest. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Explain the process of resolving ethical dilemmas in Public Administration. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- 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. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- 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. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
Laws, Rules, Regulations & Conscience
Editor’s Pick
- Does moral conscience always align with laws, rules, and regulations in ethical decision-making? Provide examples to support your answer. (200 Words)
- While conscience is often a vital compass in ethical decision-making, it is not without its limitations. Discuss.(200 Words)
- What is your understanding of ‘fiduciary duty’ in relation to corporate governance in India? Please explain with appropriate examples. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision-making? Discuss. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- The Rules and Regulations provided to all the civil servants are same, yet there is difference in the performance. Positive minded officers are able to interpret the Rules and Regulations in favour of the case and achieve success, whereas negative minded officers are unable to achieve goals by interpreting the same Rules and Regulations against the case. Discuss with illustrations. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them.(150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Suppose the Govt. of India is thinking of constructing a dam in a mountain valley bound by forests & inhabited by ethnic communities. What rational policy should it resort to in dealing with unforeseen contingencies? (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace. (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
Accountability & Ethical Governance
Editor’s Pick
- How does accountability contribute to fostering good governance in India? Support your answer with examples. (200 words)
- Access to information is fundamental to effective governance. In this context, explain how the Right to Information Act contributes to promoting ethical governance in India. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- “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. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What do you understand by the term ‘good governance? How far recent initiatives in terms of e-Governance steps taken by the State have helped the beneficiaries? Discuss with suitable examples. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
Ethical & Moral Values in Governance
Editor’s Pick
- Do you believe that persuasion and social influence are effective tools in public service? Provide a detailed explanation with relevant examples. (200 words)
- What is virtue ethics, and why is it important for public servants? (200 words)
- Write short notes on the following
(i) Crisis of conscience(ii) Non-partisanship(iii) Dedication to public service(iv) Coercive corruption(v) Participative governance - How do you define empathy, and why is it important in public service? (200 words)
- What does the term ‘social cohesion’ mean, and why is it important for effective governance? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Write short notes on the following in 30 words each: (i) Constitutional morality (ii) Conflict of interest (iii) Probity in public life (iv) Challenges of digitalization (v) Devotion to duty
- What is meant by the term ‘constitutional morality’? How does one uphold constitutional morality?(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- With regard to morality of actions, one view is that means are of paramount importance and the other view is that the ends justify the means. Which view do you think is more appropriate ? Justify your answer. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
Ethical Issues in International Relations & Funding
Editor’s Pick
- Is war ever ethical? Analyze this question in the context of international conflicts. (200 words)
- Though several institutions exist to ensure fairness in international relations, states often disregard moral values and the guidance of these institutions in pursuit of their own interests. Discuss with examples. (Answer in 150 words)
- Examine the ethical challenges that may arise when foreign-funded research projects conduct medical studies in developing countries. (Answer in 150 words)
UPSC PYQs
- International aid’ is an accepted form of helping ‘resource-challenged’ nations. Comment on ‘ethics in contemporary international aid’. Support your answer with suitable examples. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Russia and Ukraine war has been going on for the last seven months. Different countries have taken independent stands and actions keeping in view their own national interests. We are all aware that war has its own impact on the different aspects of society, including human tragedy. What are those ethical issues that are crucial to be considered while launching the war and its continuation so far? Illustrate with justification the ethical issues involved in the given state of affair. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- ‘The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty. Examine this statement in the context of international relations. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Strength, peace and security are considered to be the pillars of international relations. Elucidate. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- At the international level, the 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 leads to conflicts and tensions between the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss with specific examples. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
Corporate Governance
Editor’s Pick
- How can organizations foster healthy competition while avoiding excessive pressure on employees? (200 Words)
- How can good corporate governance be understood as intellectual honesty rather than merely adhering to rules and regulations? Illustrate with examples. (200 Words)
- The ambition to become a ‘unicorn’ has prompted many start-ups to overlook sound business practices. In this context, what are the key corporate governance challenges faced by start-ups in India, and what steps can be taken to mitigate them? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency’ in the context of corporate governance in India? Illustrate with suitable examples. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- In contemporary world, corporate sector’s contribution in generating wealth and employment is increasing. In doing so, they are bringing in unprecedented onslaught on the climate, environmental sustainability and living conditions of human beings. In this background, do you find that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is efficient and sufficient enough to fulfill the social roles and responsibilities needed in the corporate world for which the CSR is mandated? Critically examine. (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
Probity in Governance
Editor’s Pick
- Probity refers to confirmed integrity, often seen as incorruptibility. What is the significance of probity in governance? How crucial is leadership in promoting probity and ethical governance in public service? Illustrate with relevant examples.(Answer in 150 words)
- Analyze the issue of foreign aid in global politics from an ethical standpoint. (150 words)
- Define media ethics and discuss why it is essential for democracy. (150 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development. Discuss. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- What are the basic principles of public life? Illustrate any three of these with suitable examples.(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government.(150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- What do you understand by ‘probity’ in public life? What are the difficulties in practicing it in the present times? How can these difficulties be overcome? (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
- Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development. Discuss. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
Concept of Public Service
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
Philosophical Basis of Governance & Probity
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
Transparency in Government: Right to Information, Citizen’s Charters
Editor’s Pick
- “Access to information is a fundamental public right. In this regard, what are the key principles that should govern the sharing of information by the government?”(200 Words)
- How do citizen charters, which are primarily designed to empower and inform citizens, also provide various advantages for the bureaucracy? Discuss.(200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct
Editor’s Pick
- To what extent have the conduct rules been effective in promoting ethical behavior among civil servants in India? (200 Words)
- What is the relationship between probity and public trust? How can a lack of probity diminish public trust in government institutions? (200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
Work Culture
Editor’s Pick
- How does the distinction between management as “doing things right” and leadership as “doing the right things” reflect their roles and responsibilities? (200 Words)
- An ethical work culture not only fosters positive organizational outcomes but also supports employees’ growth. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
- The work culture of the police in India is often described as being marked by indecision, inefficiency, and a lack of empathy. Discuss and suggest possible remedial measures in this context. (Answer in 150 words)
UPSC PYQs
Quality of Service Delivery
Editor’s Pick
- Celebrity endorsements as a marketing and advertising strategy raise several ethical concerns. (200 words)
- How is social accountability recognized as a tool for enhancing democratic governance and improving service delivery? Discuss. (200 Words)
- What are the fundamental principles of public service delivery? Discuss the challenges faced in ensuring effective public service delivery in India.(200 Words)
- How does the Grievance Redressal Mechanism serve as a measure of service delivery quality in an organization? Please provide examples to support your discussion.(200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
Utilization of Public Funds
Editor’s Pick
- What ethical principles should guide the use of public funds, and what are the moral considerations involved in using taxpayer money to bail out large corporations? (200 Words)
- Identify the issues related to the use of public funds and discuss the ethical principles that can guide the development of strategies for better utilization of public funds in India. (150 words)
UPSC PYQs
Challenges of Corruption
Editor’s Pick
- Do you agree with the view that corruption thrives in Indian society due to its social acceptance and its perception as aspirational? Discuss with examples. (200 Words)
- Although bribery is illegal and detrimental, public officials still demand bribes, and private sector executives are often tempted to pay them. In this context, discuss how corporations can establish a framework to eliminate the practice of offering kickbacks. (150 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Whistle-blower, who reports corruption and illegal activities, wrongdoing and misconduct to the concerned authorities, runs the risk of being exposed to grave danger, physical harm and victimization by the vested interests, accused persons and his team. What policy measures would you suggest to strengthen protection mechanism to safeguard the whistle-blower? (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Today we find that in spite of various measures like prescribing codes of conduct, setting up vigilence cells/commissions, RTI, active media and strengthening of legal mechanisms, corrupt practices are not coming under control.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures with justifications.
- Suggest more effective strategies to tackle this menace. (150 words) [UPSC 2015]
- It is often said that poverty leads to corruption. However, there is no dearth of instances where affluent and powerful people indulge in corruption in a big way. What are the basic causes of corruption among people? Support your answer with examples. (150 words)[UPSC 2014]
Ethics Case Studies
Editor’s Pick
- Case Study-1
- Case Study-2
- Case Study-3
- Case Study-4
- Case Study-5
- Case Study-6
- Case Study-7
- Case Study-8
- Case Study-9
- Case Study-10
- Case Study-11
- Case Study-12
- Case Study-13
- Case Study-14
- Case Study-15
- Case Study-16
- Case Study-17
- Case Study-18
- Case Study-19
- Case Study-20
- Case Study-21
- Case Study-22
- Case Study-23
- Case Study-24
- Case Study-25
- Case Study-26
- Case Study-27
UPSC PYQs
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-2 (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-7 (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Case Study-1 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Case Study-2 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Case Study-3 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Case Study-4 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Case Study-5 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Case Study-6 (250 words) [UPSC 2014]