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Home/upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define the concepts of consciousness and conscience. State their importance in making ethical decisions. 2. Role of Consciousness and Conscience Consciousness: Awareness of one’s environment and circumstances. Conscience: Internal moral compass guiding right and wrong actions. 3. Examples Illustrating the Concepts Healthcare ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction To make ethical decisions, it is essential to possess both awareness (consciousness) and an internal moral compass (conscience). While consciousness enables individuals to recognize their environment and situations, conscience guides them in acting according to what is moraRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    To make ethical decisions, it is essential to possess both awareness (consciousness) and an internal moral compass (conscience). While consciousness enables individuals to recognize their environment and situations, conscience guides them in acting according to what is morally right or wrong.

    Examples of Consciousness and Conscience in Action

    1. Healthcare Professionals
      • For a doctor in a hospital, consciousness involves awareness of available resources, such as emergency medicines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many doctors faced the ethical dilemma of allocating limited resources. Their conscience guided them to prioritize patients based on medical need rather than personal biases, demonstrating the importance of ethical decision-making in high-stakes situations.
    2. Civil Servants
      • Civil servants often navigate ethical dilemmas, such as balancing public interest against personal gain. For instance, a civil servant may need to choose between implementing a policy that benefits the majority or one that supports a marginalized group. Here, both consciousness and conscience are crucial for making decisions that uphold societal welfare.
    3. Journalism
      • Journalists must be conscious of the significance of the news they report and verify their facts. Their conscience compels them to maintain fairness and impartiality, even when under pressure to sensationalize stories. Adhering to ethical standards is vital for preserving public trust.
    4. Sports Ethics
      • In sports, athletes must be aware of the rules and spirit of fair play. However, their conscience should prevent them from engaging in unethical practices, such as using performance-enhancing drugs, despite external pressures to succeed.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, consciousness and conscience together play a vital role in ethical decision-making. By fostering both awareness and a moral sense, individuals can navigate complex ethical dilemmas more effectively, ensuring their actions align with societal values and personal ethics.

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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define moral attitudes and their relevance to marital rape. Briefly state the significance of examining these attitudes in India. 2. Impact of Moral Attitudes on Perception and Response Assumption of Implied Consent Many believe consent is inherent within marriage, leading ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Moral attitudes significantly shape the perception and response to marital rape in India. Traditionally, many individuals hold the belief that consent is implied within marriage, leading to a lack of recognition of marital rape as a crime. This assumption stems from societaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Moral attitudes significantly shape the perception and response to marital rape in India. Traditionally, many individuals hold the belief that consent is implied within marriage, leading to a lack of recognition of marital rape as a crime. This assumption stems from societal norms that prioritize marital duties and obedience to one’s spouse, often overshadowing the importance of individual consent. Furthermore, discussions surrounding sexuality and violations of conjugal rights are stigmatized, contributing to a culture of silence and victim-blaming, where victims are often questioned about their morality rather than the perpetrators’ actions.

    As societal moral attitudes evolve, there is a gradual shift towards recognizing human rights, gender equality, and individual autonomy. This change is crucial in reshaping the perception of marital rape and encouraging victims to seek justice.

    Ethical Implications of Criminalizing Marital Rape

    The criminalization of marital rape raises several ethical considerations:

    1. Misuse of Law: Concerns about the potential misuse of laws against husbands must be weighed against the dignity and rights of women who face abuse.
    2. Absolute Right to Intercourse: The notion that marriage implies perpetual consent to sexual intercourse is ethically problematic; consent should be explicit and ongoing.
    3. Bodily Autonomy vs. Stability of Marriage: Women’s rights to bodily integrity and sexual autonomy must be prioritized over the perceived stability of marriage.
    4. Privacy vs. Justice: While privacy is important, it should not impede justice for victims of marital rape.
    5. Gender Neutrality: The debate should challenge the notion that marriage grants men the right to sexual access, advocating for a gender-neutral approach to consent.

    In conclusion, addressing these ethical imperatives is essential for balancing the rights of all individuals and fostering a society that rejects sexual violence in all forms.

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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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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 ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    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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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define the Principle of Double Effect: Briefly explain the principle, emphasizing that it allows for morally good actions even if they result in unintended negative consequences. Key Components of the Principle Nature of the Act: The action must be ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The principle of double effect serves as a significant ethical guideline for resolving complex moral dilemmas, particularly when actions yield both positive and negative outcomes. This principle posits that if an individual intends to achieve a morally good goal, they may pRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The principle of double effect serves as a significant ethical guideline for resolving complex moral dilemmas, particularly when actions yield both positive and negative outcomes. This principle posits that if an individual intends to achieve a morally good goal, they may permissibly cause harm as a side effect, provided certain conditions are met.

    Key Conditions of the Principle

    1. The Nature of the Act: The action must be morally good or neutral. For instance, a firefighter risking his life to save trapped residents exemplifies a morally commendable act despite the potential for personal harm. This reflects the self-sacrificial nature of heroic actions (Aquinas, 13th century).
    2. Proportionality Condition: The positive outcome must outweigh the negative effect. Military operations aimed at neutralizing organized crime often lead to collateral damage; however, these operations can be justified if they significantly enhance public safety (McMahan, 2009).
    3. Means-End Condition: The harmful means should not be necessary for achieving the good effect. For example, a doctor administering heavy painkillers to alleviate a patient’s suffering may foresee a reduction in the patient’s lifespan, yet their primary intention is to relieve pain (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013).
    4. Right-Intention Condition: The intention should solely focus on the good outcome. In self-defense situations, an individual might unintentionally kill an assailant, but the primary aim is to protect oneself (Luban, 2010).

    Ethical Implications and Misunderstandings

    While the principle is instrumental in navigating moral complexities, it can be misinterpreted as a justification for harm under the guise of good intentions. Ethical agents must strive to minimize negative side effects and act responsibly, adhering to the principle’s restrictions against excessive or unjust actions. Thus, the principle of double effect provides a nuanced framework for evaluating actions’ moral dimensions, guiding individuals through ethically challenging scenarios.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define scientific research and experimentation. State the importance of ethical principles in guiding research to ensure the protection of participants, integrity of findings, and societal well-being. Ethical Principles Governing Scientific Research Duty to Society: Emphasize that research should be conducted ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Ethical Principles in Scientific Research Scientific research is governed by several ethical principles designed to ensure the integrity of the process and protect the rights of participants, animals, and the community. These principles guide researchers in conducting responsible and etRead more

    Model Answer

    Ethical Principles in Scientific Research

    Scientific research is governed by several ethical principles designed to ensure the integrity of the process and protect the rights of participants, animals, and the community. These principles guide researchers in conducting responsible and ethical studies.

    Duty to Society

    Researchers have a responsibility to contribute positively to society through their research. For example, when developing a new drug, the benefits should be directed toward improving the welfare of the population, not just serving the interests of the individual or company behind the discovery.
    Fact: The development of the COVID-19 vaccine was driven by the duty to society, aiming to address a global health crisis.

    Beneficence

    Researchers are obligated to maximize benefits while minimizing risks to participants. Clinical trials, for example, should ensure that any potential harms are outweighed by the expected benefits for participants.
    Fact: The clinical trials for cancer treatments undergo rigorous ethical review to ensure participants’ safety and potential benefits.

    Informed Consent

    Participants must voluntarily agree to take part in research after being fully informed about the nature of the study and any associated risks.
    Fact: Participants in a neural implant study must sign consent forms after understanding the potential risks, ensuring ethical adherence.

    Integrity

    Researchers should be truthful and honest in their findings. This includes not falsifying data or omitting relevant information to meet deadlines or financial expectations.
    Fact: Fabrication or falsification of data, like in the case of fraudulent research in stem cell therapy, undermines scientific integrity and public trust.

    Non-Discrimination

    Research should benefit all sections of society, and researchers should avoid excluding certain groups from benefiting from scientific advancements.
    Fact: Efforts to develop accessible healthcare technologies, such as affordable HIV drugs, aim to include marginalized communities in scientific benefits.

    Privacy and Confidentiality

    Researchers must respect participants’ privacy and ensure their personal information remains confidential.
    Fact: Medical research studies maintain confidentiality to protect participants’ private health data.

    Ethical principles in scientific research promote the responsible conduct of studies and protect the public interest. Compliance with ethical standards ensures the credibility of scientific findings and maintains trust in the research process.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 28, 2024In:
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What role might persuasion and social influence play in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’s success? (150 words) [UPSC 2016]

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) was launched by the Indian government in 2014 to enhance cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation. The campaign's success hinges significantly on social influence and persuasion, which can drive community engagement and behavioral chaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) was launched by the Indian government in 2014 to enhance cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation. The campaign’s success hinges significantly on social influence and persuasion, which can drive community engagement and behavioral change.

    Body

    Social Influence

    Normative Influence

    Social norms play a critical role in shaping behaviors. When cleanliness is promoted as a community norm, individuals are more likely to participate in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. For example, showcasing positive role models, such as local leaders or celebrities who practice good sanitation, can inspire others to follow suit. A study by Cialdini et al. (1990) emphasizes that when people perceive a behavior as normative, they are more likely to adopt it.

    Informational Influence

    Providing accurate information about the health benefits of cleanliness can also persuade individuals to engage in the campaign. Public awareness initiatives that highlight the risks associated with poor sanitation—such as the links between open defecation and diseases like diarrhea and cholera—are essential. According to the World Health Organization (2014), improved sanitation can significantly reduce disease prevalence, reinforcing the importance of the campaign.

    Agents of Persuasion

    Foot-in-the-Door Technique

    This persuasion technique can be effectively applied in the context of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Starting with small requests, such as proper waste disposal, can gradually lead to greater commitments, such as community clean-up efforts. Research by Freedman and Fraser (1966) shows that initial compliance increases the likelihood of subsequent larger commitments.

    Social Proof

    Demonstrating successful initiatives can motivate others to participate. When communities see tangible improvements from Swachh Bharat Abhiyan efforts, such as cleaner neighborhoods, they are more likely to emulate these behaviors. Sharing success stories can create a ripple effect, encouraging broader participation.

    Conclusion

    Leveraging social norms, clear information, and effective persuasion techniques can significantly enhance community engagement in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. By fostering a culture of cleanliness, the campaign can contribute to a healthier and cleaner India.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 24, 2024In:
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It is thought that upholding ethics in human behavior would guarantee an organization’s or system’s efficient operation. If true, what aspect of human life does ethics aim to advance? In what ways do moral principles help him resolve issues in ...

upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Adherence to ethics is essential for the smooth functioning of any organization or system. Ethics seeks to promote moral values and principles that guide human behavior towards what is good and right. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, fairness, responsibilRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Adherence to ethics is essential for the smooth functioning of any organization or system. Ethics seeks to promote moral values and principles that guide human behavior towards what is good and right. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, fairness, responsibility, respect, and compassion in human life.

    Body

    Ethical values play a crucial role in resolving conflicts that individuals encounter in their daily lives. When these values are embraced, they provide a framework for making decisions that are fair and just, thereby reducing the likelihood of conflicts. For instance, when faced with a choice between personal gain and the greater good, values such as integrity and responsibility guide individuals toward prioritizing the collective benefit (Gini, A. “Ethical Leadership in Business,” Business Ethics Quarterly, 2016).

    In cases where conflicts do arise, ethical principles can facilitate constructive resolutions. For example, workplace conflicts often occur between colleagues or between employees and management. In such situations, values like honesty and respect can guide individuals toward resolving disputes in a constructive manner. If an employee is asked to engage in unethical behavior by a supervisor, their commitment to integrity may compel them to speak up, leading to a resolution that upholds ethical standards (Winston, B.E., “Ethics in Leadership,” Journal of Leadership Studies, 2018).

    Similarly, in personal relationships, ethical values such as empathy and respect enable individuals to navigate disagreements with sensitivity. For instance, in discussions over contentious topics like politics, individuals can use their ethical framework to engage in respectful dialogues, allowing both parties to express their views and reach a mutual understanding (Fisher, R., “Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In,” 2011).

    Conclusion

    Ethical values provide a robust framework for decision-making that is fair, just, and beneficial for all involved. They not only guide individuals in resolving conflicts constructively but also foster a culture of trust and cooperation, which is vital for the smooth functioning of organizations and systems.

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Veer Singh
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Veer SinghBegginer
Asked: June 28, 2024In:
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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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Veer Singh
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Veer SinghBegginer
Asked: June 28, 2024In:
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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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Mona Singh
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Mona SinghBegginer
Asked: June 27, 2024In:
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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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