It’s a common belief that corruption arises from poverty. Nonetheless, there are plenty of examples of wealthy and influential individuals engaging in significant corruption. What are the fundamental reasons why people become corrupt? Provide examples to back up your response.
Model Answer Introduction Probity in public life refers to the commitment to honesty, transparency, and high moral principles in the conduct of public affairs. It is essential for good governance and plays a crucial role in fostering public trust in government institutions. Challenges in PracticingRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Probity in public life refers to the commitment to honesty, transparency, and high moral principles in the conduct of public affairs. It is essential for good governance and plays a crucial role in fostering public trust in government institutions.
Challenges in Practicing Probity
Practicing probity has become increasingly difficult today due to several factors:
1. High-Handedness of Public Servants
As noted by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), there is a tendency among some public officials to act with arrogance, neglecting the needs and rights of citizens.
2. Decreasing Moral Values
Many politicians exhibit declining moral values, which can influence public servants and erode ethical standards in governance.
3. Low Public Awareness
A lack of awareness among citizens regarding their rights allows public officials to become apathetic towards public needs and accountability.
4. General Decline in Morality
The overall decline in ethical behavior in public life makes it challenging for even honest individuals to uphold probity.
Overcoming Difficulties
To address these challenges, several measures can be implemented:
1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks
Enhancing laws and regulations governing public affairs is vital. This includes enacting and enforcing anti-corruption laws, establishing independent oversight bodies, and strengthening the roles of civil society and the media in monitoring misconduct.
2. Education and Awareness Campaigns
Investing in education about ethical behavior and moral values is essential. Training programs for public officials can promote a culture of transparency and accountability.
Example: Recent scandals involving the misappropriation of public funds have highlighted the urgent need for stronger measures to ensure accountability and restore public trust in governance.
Conclusion
Individuals must strive for probity in their actions while advocating for moral education and awareness in society. Even a single voice can make a difference in promoting integrity and ethical standards in public life.
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Model Answer Introduction While poverty is often cited as a cause of corruption, it is crucial to recognize that corruption permeates all segments of society, including the affluent and powerful. The motivations behind corrupt practices often extend beyond financial desperation. Basic Causes of CorrRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
While poverty is often cited as a cause of corruption, it is crucial to recognize that corruption permeates all segments of society, including the affluent and powerful. The motivations behind corrupt practices often extend beyond financial desperation.
Basic Causes of Corruption
1. Greed
Greed is a primary driver of corruption. Individuals may engage in unethical behaviors to acquire wealth, power, or status. This insatiable desire for more can lead to significant breaches of trust and legality.
2. Lack of Accountability
When institutions lack accountability and transparency, corruption thrives. Without consequences for corrupt actions, individuals may feel emboldened to engage in unethical behavior.
Example: The 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal involved the company cheating on emissions tests, undermining public trust and demonstrating the consequences of unaccountable corporate behavior.
3. Weak Enforcement Mechanisms
Ineffective enforcement of laws facilitates corruption. When individuals believe they can act without fear of repercussions, they are more likely to engage in corrupt practices.
4. Culture of Corruption
In some societies, corruption is normalized, making it difficult to combat. When corrupt behavior is viewed as necessary or acceptable, it becomes entrenched in everyday life.
Example: Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye was impeached in 2017 for corruption, highlighting how political corruption can become systemic within powerful circles.
5. Sports Corruption
Corruption in sports illustrates how the powerful can exploit systems for personal gain. The 2015 FIFA scandal involved officials arrested for corruption, reflecting a broader issue within sports administration.
Conclusion
Corruption is not solely a product of poverty; it is fueled by greed, lack of accountability, weak enforcement, and a culture that accepts corrupt behavior. Addressing these root causes is essential for fostering ethical behavior across all societal segments.
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