Home/upsc: determinants & consequences of ethics in human actions
- Recent Questions
- Most Answered
- Answers
- No Answers
- Most Visited
- Most Voted
- Random
- Bump Question
- New Questions
- Sticky Questions
- Polls
- Followed Questions
- Favorite Questions
- Recent Questions With Time
- Most Answered With Time
- Answers With Time
- No Answers With Time
- Most Visited With Time
- Most Voted With Time
- Random With Time
- Bump Question With Time
- New Questions With Time
- Sticky Questions With Time
- Polls With Time
- Followed Questions With Time
- Favorite Questions With Time
In addition to awareness, one must have a sense of conscience to make ethical decisions. Explain with appropriate examples. (Answer in 150 words)
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
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.
See lessExamine the impact of moral attitudes on the perception and response to marital rape in India. Discuss the ethical implications of criminalizing marital rape in the country.
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:
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.
See lessThe Indian Republic adopted Ashoka's Lion Capital at Sarnath as its state emblem to symbolize the harmony he achieved and to maintain continuity with his compassionate policies towards the people of modern India. In this context, discuss the ethical lessons that resonate in Ashoka's life.
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.
See lessThe principle of double effect suggests that if someone's actions are intended to achieve a morally good outcome, even if they lead to an unintended negative side effect, the action can still be morally acceptable. How effective is this principle in resolving complex moral dilemmas? Discuss with relevant examples. (Answer in 150 words)
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
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.
See lessWhat ethical principles govern scientific research and experimentation? Illustrate with examples. (200 words)
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.
See lessHow could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan?(150 words) [UPSC 2016]
Social Influence and Persuasion in the Success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan 1. Leveraging Influencers: Explanation: Influencers and public figures can use their reach to endorse and promote the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, making sanitation a social norm. Example: Celebrity endorsements by figures like Shah RRead more
Social Influence and Persuasion in the Success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
1. Leveraging Influencers:
2. Community Leaders and Role Models:
3. Behavioral Nudges:
4. Social Norms and Peer Pressure:
Conclusion: Social influence and persuasion significantly contribute to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by harnessing the power of public figures, local leaders, and social norms to foster widespread adoption of cleanliness practices and enhance the campaign’s overall impact.
See lessIt is believed that adherence to ethics in human actions would ensure in smooth functioning of an organization/system. If so, what does ethics seek to promote in human life? How do ethical values assist in the resolution of conflicts faced by him in his day-to-day functioning? (150 words) [UPSC 2022]
Ethics in Human Actions and Organizational Functioning Ethics and Its Promotion Ethics seeks to promote integrity, fairness, and responsibility in human actions. It emphasizes adherence to moral principles and values, which foster trust and cooperation within an organization. For example, Satya NadeRead more
Ethics in Human Actions and Organizational Functioning
Ethics and Its Promotion
Ethics seeks to promote integrity, fairness, and responsibility in human actions. It emphasizes adherence to moral principles and values, which foster trust and cooperation within an organization. For example, Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, has emphasized ethical leadership by promoting a culture of inclusivity and transparency, which has led to improved organizational harmony and performance.
Resolution of Conflicts Through Ethical Values
Conclusion
Adherence to ethics promotes a stable and efficient organizational environment by ensuring fair practices and conflict resolution. Ethical values are crucial for guiding behavior, making fair decisions, and building trust, which are fundamental for effective functioning and harmony in any system.
See lessThe principle of double effect is based on the idea that if a person's behaviour or conduct is intended to achieve a goal which is morally good, however, as a result, there is a morally bad side-effect, then it is still acceptable to adopt that particular behaviour or conduct. How far can this principle aid in resolving difficultmoral situations? Discuss with suitable examples.
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:
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
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:
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).
See lessApart from consciousness, one needs to possess conscience in order to make ethical decisions. Explain with suitable examples.
A conscious person refers to a person who is awake and aware of his/her environment, such as a person who is environmentally conscious, financially conscious, emotionally conscious, etc. On the other hand, conscience refers to one's internal sense of what is right and wrong. It is 'a person's moralRead more
A conscious person refers to a person who is awake and aware of his/her environment, such as a person who is environmentally conscious, financially conscious, emotionally conscious, etc. On the other hand, conscience refers to one’s internal sense of what is right and wrong. It is ‘a person’s moral sense of right and wrong as well as the consciousness of one’s actions. Both conscience and consciousness are parts of a system of information that governs one’s experience and decision-making process.
To make an ethical decision, one must not only possess consciousness but also conscience. Consciousness allows an individual to be aware of his/her place in the world, while conscience allows an individual to behave ethically, morally and in socially acceptable ways.
This can be discerned from the following examples:
Conscience along with consciousness help in avoiding conflict of interest and solving ethical dilemmas for better decision-making. Further, as per Kantian ethics, conscience acts as an inner court for ethical decision-making. Apart from consciousness and conscience, there are multiple factors that determine/influence the process of ethical decision-making, such as a person’s own value system and moral development, societal norms, legal frameworks, influence of family members and peers, personal experiences, etc.
See lessAnalyse the role of moral attitude in shaping the perception and response to marital rape in India. Explain the ethical considerations in criminalizing marital rape in the country.
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:
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:
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.
See less