Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define prejudice and discrimination. Briefly state the importance of addressing these issues to prevent violence. 2. Violation of Rights Explanation: Discuss how prejudice leads to the violation of civil and political rights. Example: Fact: After 9/11, hate crimes against Muslims surged, ...
Model Answer The Balance of Impartiality and Compassion in Public Service Impartiality is a fundamental ethical value in public service, ensuring decisions are made based on merit without bias. However, it should not exclude compassion, which is equally vital for addressing the diverse needs of citiRead more
Model Answer
The Balance of Impartiality and Compassion in Public Service
Impartiality is a fundamental ethical value in public service, ensuring decisions are made based on merit without bias. However, it should not exclude compassion, which is equally vital for addressing the diverse needs of citizens.
Understanding Impartiality and Compassion
Impartiality demands that civil servants treat all individuals fairly, making decisions grounded in objective criteria (Source: Public Administration Review). Conversely, compassion involves recognizing and responding to the emotional and practical needs of people, particularly the most vulnerable. For example, India’s Constitution mandates affirmative action to uplift disadvantaged groups, such as women and scheduled castes, highlighting the necessity of both values in governance.
Case Example: Navigating Challenges
Consider a scenario where a needy individual lacks required documentation, such as an Aadhar number linked to a ration card. Impartiality would typically lead to denying benefits based on the absence of documents. However, a compassionate civil servant would not simply turn the person away; instead, they would assist in obtaining the necessary documentation, thereby fulfilling their duty while addressing the individual’s immediate needs.
Discretion in Public Service
Public servants are often granted discretion to navigate the complexities of human needs effectively. This discretion allows them to apply compassion without compromising the principle of impartiality. Striking this balance is crucial, especially in a diverse country like India, which grapples with issues such as low literacy rates, social prejudices, and economic disparities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, impartiality and compassion are not mutually exclusive; they complement each other in delivering effective public service. By fostering an environment where both values coexist, civil servants can better serve the needs of all citizens, particularly the disadvantaged, ensuring justice and empathy go hand in hand.
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Model Answer Violation of Rights Prejudice often leads to the violation of civil rights, particularly for marginalized groups. For instance, the discrimination against Muslims in the United States has resulted in numerous hate crimes, particularly after the September 11 attacks. Reports indicate a sRead more
Model Answer
Violation of Rights
Prejudice often leads to the violation of civil rights, particularly for marginalized groups. For instance, the discrimination against Muslims in the United States has resulted in numerous hate crimes, particularly after the September 11 attacks. Reports indicate a significant increase in assaults against Muslims, with 93 total assaults recorded in 2001, which spiked to 127 in 2016, reflecting rising anti-Muslim sentiment.
Unrealized Societal Potential
Discrimination can stifle societal progress by excluding certain groups from opportunities. The historical context of colonial India illustrates this, where the British suppressed the rights of the Indian population, leading to a prolonged struggle for independence. This suppression was rooted in prejudiced beliefs about the superiority of the colonizers over the colonized.
Stereotyping
Stereotyping, a byproduct of unaddressed prejudice, can lead to violent conflicts. The secessionist movement in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) was fueled by the West Pakistani elite’s denial of socio-cultural and political rights to Bengalis, who were stereotyped negatively. This ultimately escalated into a violent struggle for independence.
Disturbing Harmony
The perception of threat from an “outgroup” can lead to violence when left unaddressed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a notable increase in discrimination and violence against East Asians in Western countries, driven by unfounded prejudices linking them to the virus. This resulted in numerous hate crimes and public assaults against individuals of East Asian descent.
In conclusion, addressing prejudice and discrimination is crucial to prevent escalation into violence. Societal efforts must focus on promoting equality, raising awareness, and fostering inclusive environments to mitigate these risks.
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