Roadmap for Answer Writing
Introduction
- Purpose: Define the significance of resolving ethical dilemmas in public administration.
- Thesis Statement: Highlight the necessity of a systematic approach to address ethical dilemmas effectively.
Body
1. Understanding Ethical Dilemmas
- Explanation: Describe what constitutes an ethical dilemma in public administration, emphasizing the conflict between competing values.
- Key Point: Ethical dilemmas often involve accountability, public interest, and the exercise of power.
2. Examples of Ethical Dilemmas
- Provide real-life scenarios to illustrate common ethical dilemmas:
- Disclosing Confidential Information: Balancing public safety with confidentiality.
- Following Orders vs. Upholding the Law: Navigating the conflict between authority and legality.
- Awarding Contracts: The challenge of nepotism versus meritocracy.
- Bending Rules for VIPs: Weighing protocol against special accommodations.
- Accepting Gifts: Considering the implications of accepting favors from interested parties.
3. Process of Resolving Ethical Dilemmas
- Step-by-Step Process:
- Recognize the Ethical Dilemma: Identify and acknowledge the issue.
- Gather Information: Collect relevant laws, policies, and guidelines.
- Identify Stakeholders: Determine who is affected by the decision.
- Analyze Options: Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
- Apply Ethical Principles: Use principles like honesty and fairness to guide decisions.
- Make a Decision: Choose the best course of action based on analysis.
- Implement the Decision: Execute the chosen action and monitor its impact.
- Evaluate the Decision: Assess effectiveness and make adjustments if necessary.
Conclusion
- Summary: Recap the importance of a structured approach to resolving ethical dilemmas in public administration.
- Final Thought: Emphasize the role of transparency and accountability in building public trust and fostering ethical behavior.
Resolving Ethical Dilemmas in Public Administration
1. Identification of the Dilemma
The first step is to clearly identify the ethical dilemma. This involves recognizing the situation where a public servant faces conflicting values or principles. For instance, a civil servant might struggle with the decision of whether to approve a project that benefits the public but is marred by corruption.
2. Evaluation of Options
Next, evaluate the available options considering ethical principles like fairness, transparency, and accountability. Public administrators should assess how each option aligns with these principles. For example, the decision to report corruption despite potential backlash demonstrates adherence to integrity and transparency.
3. Consultation and Legal Framework
Consultation with colleagues or ethics committees can provide additional perspectives and insights. Adhering to established legal frameworks and guidelines is crucial. Recent examples include the RTI (Right to Information) Act which encourages transparency and accountability in resolving dilemmas by making information accessible.
4. Decision and Implementation
Finally, make a decision that upholds ethical standards and implement it with accountability. Documenting the decision-making process ensures transparency. For instance, the decision to remove a corrupt official, as seen in recent anti-corruption drives, must be accompanied by clear, documented reasons and evidence.
By systematically addressing each step, public administrators can navigate ethical dilemmas while maintaining public trust and upholding democratic values.
Model Answer
Introduction
Public administration often faces complex ethical dilemmas arising from the intersection of power, accountability, and public interest. Effectively resolving these dilemmas requires a systematic approach that balances competing values and interests.
Body
Examples of Ethical Dilemmas
Process of Resolving Ethical Dilemmas
Conclusion
By following this structured process, public servants can make decisions that serve the public good while upholding ethical standards. A transparent and accountable approach is essential for fostering trust and promoting ethical behavior in public administration. This reinforces the integrity of the public sector and enhances its service to the community.