Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” What steps, in your opinion, may be taken to improve society’s fundamental values? (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. While compassion is empathy with a desire to help alleviate the suffering of others. Empathy is a cognitive and emotional idea, whereas compassion adds a behavioral aspect. For instance, while Draupadi’s chirharan bhism PitahmahRead more
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. While compassion is empathy with a desire to help alleviate the suffering of others.
Empathy is a cognitive and emotional idea, whereas compassion adds a behavioral aspect. For instance, while Draupadi’s chirharan bhism Pitahmah and Guru Dronacharya were empathetic towards her. On the other side, after the Kalinga War, Ashoka left Bherigosa and adopted Dhammagosa just out of compassion. although both the concepts are related and mutually dependent.
- Addressing Inequality: weaker sections like tribes, poor, women, etc. have been subjected to historical injustice and still face the challenges; hence, compassion towards weaker sections is important. For instance, Pudukottai Collector Kavitha Ramu opened the doors of the temple for Dalits.
- Implementation of Welfare Schemes
A compassionate bureaucrat better understands the needs and challenges of weaker sections. thus form the best policy and effectively implement them. for instance, the midday meal scheme.
- Enhances Trust in Government
Compassion increases the credibility of government, which consequently increases community participation and strengthens democracy.
- Promoting social cohesion
Inequality leads to sense of injustice. Compassionate governance reduces inequalities and thus fosters harmonious relations.
- Inclusivity: compassion promotes socio-economic and political inclusivity.
6. Ethical Governance: compassion prevents arrogance of power and promotes ethical governance.
To conclude, we can say that compassion is essential for effective governance and social equity. It enables bureaucrats to fulfill their roles as agents of change, working towards an inclusive and just society.
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Model Answer Introduction Corruption manifests as a significant societal issue, often stemming from the erosion of core values such as integrity, accountability, and fairness. These values are essential for a healthy society, and their decline creates an environment ripe for corrupt practices. AddreRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Corruption manifests as a significant societal issue, often stemming from the erosion of core values such as integrity, accountability, and fairness. These values are essential for a healthy society, and their decline creates an environment ripe for corrupt practices. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach to restore these values.
Corruption as a Symptom of the Breakdown of Core Societal Values
Decline in Integrity: A weakening of personal integrity leads to corrupt actions, where individuals sacrifice ethical values for self-interest. The Enron scandal is a prime example, showcasing how the lack of integrity among senior executives can foster dishonest and unethical conduct.
Undermining the Rule of Law: Corruption often involves influential figures manipulating legal systems for personal gain, eroding the principle of the rule of law. The Brazilian “Car Wash” operation demonstrates how corruption can penetrate and compromise legal frameworks.
Absence of Accountability: When there is insufficient accountability, corruption flourishes unchecked, as individuals and organizations evade responsibility for their actions. The Volkswagen emissions scandal highlights how corrupt practices were sustained due to a lack of proper accountability mechanisms.
Erosion of Trust: As trust in institutions diminishes, corruption becomes more prevalent, with people losing faith in ethical and legal processes. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index illustrates the link between higher levels of corruption and the decline in public trust in institutions.
Violation of Fairness: Corruption creates unfair advantages and deepens inequalities, violating the fundamental value of fairness. The Panama Papers expose how corrupt practices allow a privileged few to amass wealth at the expense of others, exemplifying the failure of fairness in society.
Measures to Uplift Core Values in Society
1. Education and Awareness
Implementing values-based education is crucial. For instance, Finland integrates ethics into its curriculum, promoting ethical decision-making and critical thinking from a young age. This fosters a society that prioritizes integrity and accountability.
2. Strong Legal Framework
Countries must establish robust anti-corruption laws with severe penalties. Singapore’s Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) serves as a model, effectively prosecuting corruption cases and maintaining public trust. A strong legal framework reinforces the rule of law and deters corrupt behavior.
3. Transparency and Accountability
Promoting transparency through open data initiatives is vital. Norway’s practice of publishing all government contracts online enhances accountability and public trust in governance. Such measures reduce opportunities for corruption by allowing citizens to scrutinize government actions.
4. Whistleblower Protection
Creating a safe environment for whistleblowers can significantly combat corruption. India’s Whistleblowers Protection Act of 2014 encourages individuals to report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. This protection is essential for fostering a culture of accountability.
5. Ethical Leadership
Encouraging ethical leadership in both public and private sectors is critical. Leaders like Dr. Mariazeena Johnson exemplify high moral standards, inspiring others to prioritize integrity. Ethical leadership sets a cultural precedent against corruption.
6. Civil Society Engagement
Empowering NGOs and watchdog organizations is vital for monitoring government activities. The Ghana Integrity Initiative exemplifies how civic engagement can promote transparency and advocate for reforms. Such groups mobilize public opinion against corruption.
7. Use of Technology
Leveraging technology can mitigate corruption. Implementing e-government initiatives and blockchain technology enhances transparency and streamlines processes, reducing opportunities for corrupt practices.
Conclusion
Restoring core values like integrity and accountability is essential in combating corruption. By implementing comprehensive strategies involving education, legal reforms, transparency, and civic engagement, society can foster an environment that promotes ethical behavior and discourages corruption, leading to a fairer future.
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