Ethics in Public Administration

Model Answer

Introduction

Social capital refers to the collective value of trust, cooperation, and mutual support within a community, facilitating collaboration and resource sharing. For instance, neighbors helping each other during crises exemplifies how social bonds foster resilience and cooperation.

Understanding Social Capital

Components of Social Capital

Social capital comprises three integral components:

1. Networks: Interconnected relationships among individuals that foster a sense of belonging and community.
2. Norms: The rules, values, and expectations governing social interactions that guide behavior.
3. Sanctions: Rewards and punishments that reinforce adherence to norms, such as praise or social disapproval.

These components are interlinked; for example, volunteer networks can establish norms like environmental responsibility, with non-participants facing social sanctions, thereby enhancing both practices and community unity.

Reinforcing Relationships

The dynamics between social capital’s components are crucial for its sustainability. In closely-knit neighborhoods, regular gatherings and mutual assistance develop strong networks, promoting norms of community support and unity.

Role of Social Capital in Enhancing Good Governance

Trust and Accountability

Social capital fosters trust among citizens and between citizens and their government. In India’s Panchayati Raj system, community trust helps hold elected representatives accountable, enhancing governance.

Civic Engagement

High social capital encourages civic engagement, as individuals actively participate in political processes. The Gram Sabha exemplifies this, facilitating informed decision-making through community participation.

Social Cohesion

Social capital promotes collective efforts to address challenges and foster inclusive policies. Sports teams, for instance, demonstrate how social networks can achieve common objectives, reinforcing community bonds.

Conflict Resolution

Communities with high social capital promote peaceful conflict resolution through negotiation and mediation. This stability is vital for good governance, as seen in property dispute resolutions that avoid lengthy legal processes.

Reducing Corruption

Strong social networks act as a deterrent to corruption. Self-help groups, for instance, enhance transparency and accountability in financial transactions, thereby reducing corruption at the grassroots level.

Inclusivity

Social capital ensures marginalized groups have a voice in governance. Cooperative societies empower farmers to collectively influence policies, improving access to resources.

Conclusion

Social capital is essential for effective governance. Successful policies in India, such as self-help groups and community-driven initiatives, underscore the importance of cultivating social capital. Investing in social capital-building is vital for achieving equitable and effective governance in society.

Model Answer

Introduction

The reluctance of young people in India to participate in active politics is a pressing issue. Many perceive politics as corrupt and unethical, which discourages those with strong ethical values from stepping forward. Addressing this concern requires strategic measures to inspire and empower the youth.

Steps to Motivate Young People

1. Create a Supportive Environment

Political parties and civil society organizations must foster a welcoming atmosphere for youth engagement. Platforms for debate and policy contributions can encourage young voices. For example, initiatives like the Aam Aadmi Party’s youth wing provide avenues for young individuals to express their opinions in politics.

2. Increase Transparency and Accountability

Young people are more likely to engage if they see a transparent political system. Political parties should adopt clear decision-making processes and hold representatives accountable for their actions. Research indicates that transparency enhances trust, a crucial factor for youth involvement (Bleich & Norrander, 2020).

3. Enhance Representation

To ensure young people’s perspectives are heard, political parties should reserve seats for youth in legislative bodies. The Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth wing, ABVP, exemplifies efforts to integrate young leaders into political discourse.

4. Empower Youth-Led Initiatives

Encouraging youth-led organizations can galvanize young people to participate in politics. The Yuva Bharat program launched by the Indian government empowers youth initiatives, allowing them to contribute to national development.

5. Provide Civic Education

Civic education is vital for equipping young people with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities. Programs like the National Service Scheme (NSS) teach civic responsibility and encourage community service, fostering a sense of political engagement.

6. Address Barriers to Entry

Financial constraints and lack of networks can hinder youth participation. Initiatives like the Young Women’s Leadership Program by the All India Democratic Women’s Association aim to support marginalized youth in overcoming these challenges.

7. Increase Participation in Local Governance

Encouraging youth to engage in local governance can build interest in broader political participation. The Chief Minister’s Youth Advisory Council in Rajasthan serves as a model for involving young people in local decision-making.

Conclusion

Motivating young people with ethical conduct to join active politics necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes creating supportive environments, enhancing transparency, and addressing barriers. By implementing these strategies, we can inspire the youth to take an active role in shaping the political landscape of India.