Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Introduce the role of public servants in providing essential services to the community. Highlight the importance of virtues such as trustworthiness and fortitude in effective public service. 2. Understanding the Virtues Trustworthiness: Define trustworthiness as honesty, reliability, and transparency ...
Integrity is the strong observance of moral and ethical standards, even under adverse circumstances. Edward Snowden is the most poignant real-life example of that. A contractor of America by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), while at the job, Snowden discovered that the agency had mass surveiRead more
Integrity is the strong observance of moral and ethical standards, even under adverse circumstances. Edward Snowden is the most poignant real-life example of that. A contractor of America by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), while at the job, Snowden discovered that the agency had mass surveillance programs against the citizen’s privacy and constitutional rights. However, he bore the evil consequences of this breach-the exile and imprisonment that will result from this revelation.
It reflects how much value Edward Snowden places on principles of transparency and accountability, as weighty as the cost may be, when it refuses to be complicit in unethical practices even under pressure.The act sparked worldwide debate over privacy, government encroachment, and how security should be played off against civil liberties. Hard as it may seem, drawing a fine line between the two certainly winds up in controversy. His case, however, illustrates an adamant refusal to trade integrity for personal purposes. Thus, it is quite imperative to abide by one’s values, no matter how inconvenient life can be when acting in passion against principle.
See less
Model Answer Introduction Public servants play a vital role in delivering essential services to the community, ranging from law enforcement to education. To effectively fulfill their responsibilities, they must embody key virtues, particularly trustworthiness and fortitude. Body Trustworthiness in PRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Public servants play a vital role in delivering essential services to the community, ranging from law enforcement to education. To effectively fulfill their responsibilities, they must embody key virtues, particularly trustworthiness and fortitude.
Body
Trustworthiness in Public Service
Trustworthiness is foundational for public servants, as it fosters confidence in government institutions. Trustworthy public servants are characterized by their honesty, reliability, and transparency. For instance, when a government official discloses potential conflicts of interest and refrains from personal gains, they exemplify trustworthiness. This transparency not only reinforces public confidence but also ensures the integrity of the democratic process (Pew Research Center, 2020).
A notable example is a police officer who reports misconduct within their department. By prioritizing their duty to uphold the law over loyalty to colleagues, they demonstrate commitment to ethical standards, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in law enforcement.
Fortitude in Public Service
Fortitude, or the courage to act rightly in challenging situations, is equally essential for public servants. Those who possess fortitude are willing to make difficult decisions in the interest of the public good, often in the face of pressure or adversity. For instance, a mayor who vetoes a harmful bill despite intense lobbying from powerful interest groups exemplifies fortitude. This action reflects a commitment to prioritize community welfare over political convenience (Kotter, 1996).
Another example includes civil servants who whistleblow against corruption within their organizations. By exposing unethical practices, they stand firm against potential backlash, thus fulfilling their duty to serve the public interest and uphold accountability.
Conclusion
The virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude are critical for public servants to effectively serve their communities. By embodying these qualities, public servants can maintain public trust and uphold their commitment to the greater good.
See less