Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Contextualize Ashoka: Briefly introduce Ashoka as a Mauryan emperor who transitioned from a conqueror to a benevolent ruler. Significance of the Lion Capital: Explain that the Indian Republic adopted Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Sarnath to symbolize harmony and ...
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
- (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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Model Answer Ethical Lessons from Ashoka's Life Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is celebrated for his transformative journey from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler. The Indian Republic's adoption of Ashoka's Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem symbolizes his commitment to harmony and cRead more
Model Answer
Ethical Lessons from Ashoka’s Life
Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, is celebrated for his transformative journey from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler. The Indian Republic’s adoption of Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem symbolizes his commitment to harmony and compassion, resonating with modern India’s ethical ideals.
Self-Transformation
One of the most profound lessons from Ashoka’s life is the capacity for self-transformation through introspection. His change from a violent ruler after the Kalinga War to an advocate for peace illustrates the importance of self-awareness and accountability. This encourages individuals and organizations to reflect on their actions and strive for personal growth (Basham, 1954).
Equality and Justice
Ashoka’s establishment of one of the earliest welfare states underscores the principles of fairness and justice. His concept of ‘Dhamma’ emphasized that the state’s primary goal should be the well-being of its citizens, advocating for dignity and equality. This vision remains relevant today as societies strive for social justice (Sharma, 2002).
Tolerance and Acceptance
Ashoka’s reign exemplified tolerance towards diverse religions and viewpoints, fostering an inclusive society. His commitment to peaceful coexistence resonates with contemporary discussions on free speech and acceptance, highlighting the need for harmonious coexistence among different communities (Radhakrishnan, 1936).
Diplomacy and Peaceful Coexistence
After the Kalinga War, Ashoka prioritized diplomacy, maintaining treaties with five Greek rulers to promote peaceful relations. This approach inspired India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and continues to influence modern diplomatic strategies (Nehru, 1946).
Compassion and Empathy
Ashoka’s emphasis on compassion extended to animals, advocating for their rights and humane treatment. His establishment of hospitals and welfare initiatives reflects a commitment to benevolence and nonviolence, values that are increasingly vital in today’s world (Khan, 2015).
Humanity and Humility
Ashoka’s initiatives, including building hospitals and providing public amenities, demonstrate his humility and dedication to serving his people. His actions remind us of the importance of community service and ethical governance.
Ashoka’s life and teachings continue to inspire modern India, guiding its principles of ‘Satyamev Jayate’ (truth always triumphs) as the nation aspires to be courageous, proud, and influential.
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