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Ethics & Human Interface

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Home/Ethics/Ethics & Human Interface

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Veer Singh
  • 0
Veer SinghBegginer
Asked: June 28, 2024In:
  • 0

Having conscience is a prerequisite for making moral decisions, in addition to consciousness. Give relevant instances to illustrate. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Seerat khurana
    Seerat khurana Begginer

    We as humans, are based on a very complex and multifaceted narrative of emotions where many of these attributes might or might not converge with one another. Consciousness and Conscience are two of the attributes that are inculcated in beings for the functioning of their everyday life but they are oRead more

    We as humans, are based on a very complex and multifaceted narrative of emotions where many of these attributes might or might not converge with one another. Consciousness and Conscience are two of the attributes that are inculcated in beings for the functioning of their everyday life but they are often used interchangeably when they hold distinctive meanings.

    Consciousness refers to awareness about oneself and also of one’s surroundings in all aspects where as Conscience refers to the moral judgement, the knowledge and application of right and wrong. Though consciousness is central to making ethical decisions, conscience also plays an equally vital role in the same. The first step to making an ethical decision is being aware and mindful of the situation but actually moving forward to make a rational ethical decision, one needs to posses the attribute of conscience because it provides us a moral framework and guidance that shapes our interpretation and actions.

    For instance, many people are conscious that burning firecrackers on Diwali causes air, noise and land pollution and it has so many ill effects for the living and the non-living, but choosing to not burn them for the sake of temporary enjoyment and protecting the environment, is a sign of active conscience that helps one make an ethical decision. Another instance for the same could be, many young people are conscious that smoking or drinking are injurious, not just to oneself but could also cause unfortunate events in general for others too, but choosing not to engage in these activities despite peer pressure or social media outraging is the aspect of conscience that drives one to make an ethical decision.

    Therefore, Consciousness and Conscience are related to each other in various aspects, especially in ethical reasoning and decision making but they hold different references. Where Consciousness is the base for ethical reasoning, conscience is what drives us to actually take an action and therefore, it is extremely important to possess conscience along with consciousness for ethical reasoning and decision making.

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Vaishnavi Kulyal
  • 3
Vaishnavi KulyalBegginer
Asked: July 9, 2024In: , , , , ,
  • 3

This statement or question is based on if the people with reserved category faces the problem of insecurity even after being capable enough for the job or position or is it the General category suffering the most in getting the ...

indian education systemquestionreservation system in india
  1. Shreya Bajaj
    Shreya Bajaj Begginer
    This answer was edited.

    In India, reservation is a caste-based affirmative action policy. In layman's terms, it is the practice of reserving seats in government jobs and educational institutions, for specific groups of people. The system was established to elevate the highly neglected and deprived backward castes ( unpriviRead more

    In India, reservation is a caste-based affirmative action policy. In layman’s terms, it is the practice of reserving seats in government jobs and educational institutions, for specific groups of people. The system was established to elevate the highly neglected and deprived backward castes ( unprivileged) to the same level as the upper castes.

    Although the system boosts the self-esteem of people from different unprivileged groups and gives them a chance to showcase their talent, people from the general category have to take a back seat and watch their dreams get crushed.
    In today’s society, even an above-average individual from a general category has very little chance of getting into a good government university because of all the reservations for the minor groups. No matter how skilled or talented an individual is, there is always a chance of him losing his seat to an undeserving candidate. This outlook can sometimes lead to self-doubts about one’s accomplishments, particularly for those who do not benefit from reservations and believe they must compete on a different level.

    Therefore, to achieve true equality of opportunity, systemic inequalities must be addressed, which may necessitate policies such as reservations to ensure fair treatment.

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Darshan Pareek
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Darshan PareekBegginer
Asked: July 9, 2024In: , , , ,
  • 3

  1. Raghav Mishra
    Raghav Mishra Begginer

    The Phrase that "Discrimination is in our blood" readily implies that it is something hard-wired in human nature. Although this is true to a great extent—that humans have the tendency to organize, segregate information, and thus, differentiate on the basis of various attributes like race, gender, agRead more

    The Phrase that “Discrimination is in our blood” readily implies that it is something hard-wired in human nature. Although this is true to a great extent—that humans have the tendency to organize, segregate information, and thus, differentiate on the basis of various attributes like race, gender, age, and so on—it is also important to know how to differentiate natural propensity from socially constructed behaviors.

    Psychologically and sociologically:

    1. Evolutionary Psychology: Some argue that humans were evolutionarily programmed to quickly put people into categories as a human survival mechanism. This provided the early humans with the ability to rapidly see who was friend and who was foe. It may have created an evolutionary predisposition toward those who are like us and distrust of those who are different.

    2. Socialization: Much of what we view as discriminatory behavior we learn through socialization. Family, media, peers, and institutions were those who taught us the norms, values, and biases. These learned behaviors can turn out to reinstate and perpetuate discrimination.

    3. Cultural Context: Discrimination varies a lot from one culture to another and throughout history. What in one context is perceived to be discriminative might not be so in another, hence it suggests that much of this behavior is culturally determined as opposed to being biologically disposed.

    4. Malleability: Human behavior is very easily modifiable. Whereas we might have some hard-wired tendencies, we are also capable of empathy, insight, and change. Education, awareness, and policy have an enormous potential for reducing discriminatory behaviors.

    5. Moral and Ethical Responsibility: Notwithstanding any natural tendency, we have the moral and ethical responsibility to struggle for equality and justice. Inequities and biased behaviors are recognized and challenged as a part of building a society that is fairer and more inclusive.

    Also, despite knowing that discrimination hurts and damages, it does not cease to exist due to several psychological, social, and structural reasons. Reasons as to why this contradiction subsists along with examples are:
    1. Implicit Bias: Most people have unconscious biases that drive human behavior, unbeknownst to them. They can be socially induced norms, media portrayals, or personal experiences.
    Example: An employer may reach subconsciously for resumes with names that sound like they belong to a particular race, even though they are consciously pro-diversity.
    2. Socialization: People learn behavior and attitudes from their family, friends, and society. From a very tender age, one may be socialized to hold discriminatory beliefs.
    Example: Children can pick up racist or sexist attitudes from their parents or peers and transport these attitudes into adulthood.
    3. Fear and Ignorance: Another factor that creates discrimination is dislike–fear of the unknown or unfamiliar. Often it is merely lack of information about other cultures, different lifestyles, or various abilities that creates prejudice themselves.
    Example: In most cases, xenophobia has no basis other than lack of information about other cultures and fear of economic or social changes.
    4. Power and Privilege: Those in power may discriminate in an effort to establish and secure themselves in their position over others. Discrimination may further serve to solidify created hierarchies.
    Example: Institutional racism in law enforcement allows for the continued targeting and mass incarceration of minorities in those communities.
    5. Economic and Social Competition: People may discriminate against others whom they feel are a threat to them in terms of their livelihood, or even adequate employability or social status.
    Example: Anti-immigrant sentiment is highest during periods of economic contraction, as native-born citizens might view immigrants as job competitors at times when jobs are scarce.
    6. Historical Legacies: Society’s structures and attitudes often flow from historical events and practices, such as colonialism, slavery, and segregation, that leave behind residuals.
    Example: The legacy of apartheid lives on in race relations and disparate economic outcomes for South Africans.
    7. Media Representation: Media can reinforce stereotypes and biases in views, attitudes, and perceptions across a variety of diverse groups in society.
    Example: Representations of Muslims as terrorists in movies and news reports can further Islamophobia.
    8. Social Conformity: People may potentially engage in acts of discrimination just to belong or to fit in with their social group or community.
    Example: A teenager might bully a classmate with a disability to fit in with their friends.

    Somehow, while the roots of in-group favoritism may be partially related to evolutionary factors, discrimination in the form it occurs today is essentially of social and cultural origin. This means that it is also within our powers to change with education, policy, and personal responsibility.

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Neeti yadav
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Neeti yadav
Asked: July 8, 2024In: , , , , ,
  • 2

 Coaching general keep highlighting their results to fetch more admission every year . With the rise of these coaching , students are put under extensive pressure of performing well . Suggest ways to reduce the burden and decrease suicide rate ...

brain drainquestionsave young minds
  1. Heeral
    Heeral Begginer
    This answer was edited.

    The culture of joining in a coaching institute is now a days very common amongst the youth preparing for competitive exams, mainly JEE and NEET. Every year lakhs of students enroll themselves in a coaching institute, many of them don't even know the purpose and just go about it due to lack of awarenRead more

    The culture of joining in a coaching institute is now a days very common amongst the youth preparing for competitive exams, mainly JEE and NEET. Every year lakhs of students enroll themselves in a coaching institute, many of them don’t even know the purpose and just go about it due to lack of awareness, only in the hope to become engineers or doctors.

    There is definitely a sense of rat race going on, inculcated within the students. But the Coaching Industry is not totally at fault here. Institutes are established to help children only and those who actually have inclination towards the advance study, flourish  greatly in such competitive environment. The major problem is that majority of students without a purpose in life yet and no awareness on other options, enroll themselves and so get crushed by the burden of responsibilities and higher competition causing stress and depression and forcing many to end their life.

    Every Problem comes with a solution, So to reduce this burden of competion in coaching industries, what can be done is:

    1. Spreading awareness on every field a person can take up apart from Engineering and MBBS.

    2. Proper guidance, without putting much stress, given to students who actually are interested in giving competitive exams.

    3. Involvement of parents to see if their child is facing any issues or feeling any burden. And not pressurize them to continue with this only if they don’t want to.

    4. Laws made against institutes who charge hefty money from parents in the name of ‘advanced studies’

    5. Mental health and awareness sessions conducted by the institute mainly encouraging students to talk, if they are facing any problem and solve it right away.

    If we try to solve this issue together, coaching environment won’t anymore feel like a rat race going on.

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Yashvita Singh Chauhan
  • 1
Yashvita Singh ChauhanBegginer
Asked: July 9, 2024In: , , , , , ,
  • 1

  1. Sonanya Shrivastava
    Sonanya Shrivastava Begginer

    A profound and complex topic! Albert Camus, a philosopher and absurdist, posed this question in his book "The Myth of Sisyphus." He argued that, in the face of an indifferent and often cruel universe, individuals must confront the reality of their own mortality and the seeming meaninglessness of lifRead more

    A profound and complex topic! Albert Camus, a philosopher and absurdist, posed this question in his book “The Myth of Sisyphus.” He argued that, in the face of an indifferent and often cruel universe, individuals must confront the reality of their own mortality and the seeming meaninglessness of life.

     

    Camus believed that people often shield themselves from this harsh truth through various forms of deception, such as religious beliefs, societal expectations, or personal illusions. However, when one strips away these defenses and confronts the reality of their existence, they may be tempted to ask, “Is there any reason not to commit suicide?”

     

    In this sense, Camus is not advocating for suicide but rather highlighting the absurdity of human existence. He proposes that, in the absence of inherent meaning, individuals must create their own purpose and find ways to live with dignity and authenticity, despite the bleakness of life.

     

    Camus’ philosophy emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and accepting the absurd, rather than fleeing from it. By doing so, individuals can find a sense of liberation and empowerment, allowing them to create their own meaning and find reasons to continue living, even in the face of adversity.

     

    In summary, Camus’ question is a thought-provoking challenge to confront the reality of existence, encouraging individuals to find their own purpose and meaning in life, rather than relying on external sources or illusions.

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Veer Singh
  • 0
Veer SinghBegginer
Asked: June 28, 2024In:
  • 0

Examine how moral attitudes influence how Indians view and react to marital rape. Describe the moral issues surrounding the nation’s decision to make marital rape a crime. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Dua Mohanti
    Dua Mohanti Begginer

    Moral attitude refers to an individual's personal beliefs, values, and principles that guides his/her behaviour and judgment regarding what is right and wrong, good and bad, and virtuous or immoral. Role of moral attitude in shaping the perception and response to marital rape in India: Assumption ofRead more

    Moral attitude refers to an individual’s personal beliefs, values, and principles that guides his/her behaviour and judgment regarding what is right and wrong, good and bad, and virtuous or immoral. Role of moral attitude in shaping the perception and response to marital rape in India:

    • Assumption of implied consent: Traditional view considers sexual consent within marriage as implied and does not see the need for consent in marital relationships.
    • Prioritization of marital duties: The society emphasizes on fulfilling marital obligations, obedience to the spouse, and preserving family honour.
    • Social norms of propriety: Open discussions about sexuality and violation of conjugal rights are often stigmatized, thereby inhibiting awareness and acknowledgment of the issue of marital rape.
    • Culture of silence and victim-blaming: Oftentimes, there are instances of victim-blaming where the blame is placed on the victimsand their morality is questioned, instead of the perpetrators.

    In this context, since the moral attitudes of the society are changing in general, in terms of recognition of human rights, gender equality and individual autonomy, the perception and response to marital rape in India is also shifting albeit slowly. The ethical considerations in criminalisingmarital rape in the country include:

    • Whether ‘misuse of law’ is a plausible argument: There is a need to consider whether mere suspicion over the potential of criminalization of marital rape becoming a tool for harassment of husbands takes precedence over the abuse and violation of dignity faced by women.
    • Whether right to sexual intercourse is absolute within marriage: The mere fact of marriage cannot presume a spouse’s everlasting consent to sexual intercourse. If sexual intercourse without consent is defined as rape in the criminal jurisprudence, the issue that arises is whether marital status can change it.
    • Whether stability of the institution of marriage takes precedence over the right to bodily autonomy of women: A married womanshould get to preserve the right to bodily integrity and right to sexual autonomy. The argument that these rights lead to the destabilization of the institution of marriage needs to be considered in this context.
    • Whether privacy takes precedence over justice: There is an argument that subjecting couples to detailed evidentiary requirements or surveillance measures could hamper their privacy and autonomy. However, this argument should be considered against the sense of justice it would provide women.
    • Whether such a law should be gender-neutral: If the notion that marriage gives men the divine right to have sexual intercourse with women needs to be challenged, then so should the women- centric nature of this debate. The right should be gender-neutral.

    As society evolves, so does its attitude towards emerging issues. Emphasis on ethical principles highlight the importance of consent and reject any form of sexual violence, including within marriage. Increased recognition and addressal of the ethical imperatives involved in the debate of criminalization of marital rape would help balance the rights of all.

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Sita mata
  • 0
Sita mataBegginer
Asked: June 13, 2024In:
  • 0

Despite the fact that artificial intelligence (AI) has the power to drastically alter and upend our world, Al can be a positive force for humanity if it makes the correct moral decisions. Talk about it with examples.(Answer in 150 words)

upsc: ethics - in private & public relationships
  1. Yash Sihare
    Yash Sihare Begginer
Mona Singh
  • 0
Mona SinghBegginer
Asked: June 27, 2024In:
  • 0

The concept of twofold impact posits that when an individual’s behavior or conduct aims to accomplish a morally good purpose but has an unfavorable consequence as a byproduct, it is still permissible to engage in that behavior or conduct. To ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Sagar soni
    Sagar soni Begginer

    According to the principle of double effect, sometimes, it is permissible to cause harm as a side effect (or "double effect") of bringing about a good result. This doctrine was devised as 'a neat algorithm' for solving moral disputes in which an act literally has a 'double effect, one good and the oRead more

    According to the principle of double effect, sometimes, it is permissible to cause harm as a side effect (or “double effect”) of bringing about a good result. This doctrine was devised as ‘a neat algorithm’ for solving moral disputes in which an act literally has a ‘double effect, one good and the other bad.
    This principle aids in resolving difficult moral situations as given below:

    • The nature of the act: The action must either be morally good or neutral.
      • For example, a fire-fighter entering a building on fire to save the lives of the residents trapped in the building is an act of self-sacrifice. The fire-fighter acts to save lives while foreseeing that his actions may lead to his death as an unintended consequence.
    • The proportionality condition: The good effect should be greater or at least equivalent in importance to bad effect.
      • For example, despite some collateral damage, military carrying out raids in hostile territories for the purpose of hunting downorganised crime groups is justified.
    • The means-end condition: Forachieving the good effect, the bad means should not be used.
      • For example, a doctor prescribes heavy painkillers to reduce the pain of a patient while foreseeing that the drugs may reduce the patient’s life span. ‘
    • The right-intention condition: The intention must only be to achieve the good effect. The bad effect must be only an unintended side-effect.
      • For example, during self-defence, an individual may kill another without any intention to kill the other.

    However, on the other hand, the doctrine has been misunderstood as a valid excuse to allow an individual to cause harm to others as long as his intentions are inclined towards achieving something morally good. However, the individual making the action also has the responsibility to minimise the risk of the negative side-effect. Furthermore, the doctrine has restrictions as well, such as not acting in excess, inappropriately or without just cause. Thus, the principle of double effect offers a framework for weighing the morally good and bad implications of actions and guides individuals in morally challenging scenarios

    1. (b) The Indian Republic chose Ashoka’s Lion Capitalat Sarnath as its state emblem to reflect the same harmony achieved by him and effect a continuity with his humane policies towards the people of the modern Indian nation. In this background, discuss the ethical teachings that find resonance in Ashoka’s life. 10

    Answer:
    Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is renowned for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler. This transformation of his is an inspiration for modern times as well. The Indian Republic’s choice of Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem reflects the resonance of his ethical teachings in contemporary India. The Lion Capital at Sarnath, chosen as India’s national emblem, symbolizes the power of an enlightened emperor dedicated to upholding righteousness. By embracing this symbolism, modern India is committed to equality, socialjustice, and the triumph of truth.
    Ethical teachings that find resonance in Ashoka’s Life:

    • Self-transformation: One profound truth derived from Ashoka’s story is the remarkable ability to transform oneself and one’s ideals through self-reflection. It teaches individuals as well as organisations to cultivate self-awareness, reflect on their actions and take responsibility for their outcomes.
    • Equality and justice: One of Ashoka’s remarkable achievements was the establishment of one of the earliest welfare states in the ancient world. Moreover, Ashoka’s concept of ‘Dhamma encompassed the principles of fairness, dignity and justice reflecting that the foremost aim of the State should be the well-being of its subjects.
    • Tolerance and acceptance: Ashoka’s reign stands as a shining example of tolerance towards diverse faiths and dissenting viewpoints. His wisdom echoes the ongoing debates on free speech and tolerance, issues of inclusive growth as well as harmonious coexistence of different faiths.
    • Diplomacy and peaceful coexistence: After conquering Kalinga, he established contact and maintained treaties with five contemporary Greek rulers. This early example of international negotiation to foster peaceful relations inspired India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and subsequent policymakers to establish diplomacy-based ties with neighbouring countries.
    • Compassion and empathy: Ashoka demonstrated the socio-moral virtues of honesty, truthfulness, compassion, mercifulness, benevolence, nonviolence, and considerate behaviour towards all including animals. Ashoka’s emphasis on animal rights holds relevance even today, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment and wildlife preservation worldwide.
    • Humanity and humility: Ashoka showed humanity and humility by serving his people, establishing hospitals for humans and animals, providing medicines, planting trees, constructing wells and resting places, and taking action against public negligence and animal cruelty.

    Ashoka’s life and deeds remain pertinent as India progresses toward a courageous, proud, and influential nation guided by the principle of ‘Satyamev Jayate’ (truth always triumphs).

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Arpita Wagh
  • 1
Arpita WaghBegginer
Asked: July 9, 2024In:
  • 1

What are the elements of organisational behaviour?

  1. Advait Deshmukh
    Advait Deshmukh Begginer

    Organizational behavior (OB) is the study of how individuals and groups behave within an organization. The elements of organizational behavior include: Individual Behavior: This refers to the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of individual employees within the organization. Group Behavior: ThisRead more

    Organizational behavior (OB) is the study of how individuals and groups behave within an organization. The elements of organizational behavior include:

    1. Individual Behavior: This refers to the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of individual employees within the organization.
    2. Group Behavior: This refers to the interactions and behaviors of groups of employees within the organization, such as teams, departments, and committees.
    3. Organizational Structure: This refers to the formal and informal relationships between employees, departments, and levels within the organization.
    4. Motivation: This refers to the factors that drive employee behavior and performance, such as salary, benefits, recognition, and job satisfaction.
    5. Communication: This refers to the process of exchanging information between individuals or groups within the organization.
    6. Leadership: This refers to the influence and guidance provided by leaders or managers within the organization.
    7. Power and Politics: This refers to the distribution of power and influence within the organization, including formal authority, informal networks, and coalitions.
    8. Culture: This refers to the shared values, norms, and expectations that define the organization’s identity and behavior.
    9. Organizational Learning: This refers to the process of acquiring, retaining, and transferring knowledge, skills, and abilities within the organization.
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