You work as a responsible and honorable civil servant.
You frequently notice the following:
(a) There is a widespread belief that following moral principles can be challenging and problematic for the family, yet using unethical tactics can be advantageous for advancing one’s profession.
(b) It doesn’t matter if a little percentage of people prefer moral methods while the majority adopts unjust tactics.
(c) Upholding moral principles undermines the greater objectives of progress.
(d) Giving and receiving modest gifts improves the effectiveness of the system even if one does not engage in significant unethical behavior.
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the aforementioned claims. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Context: Introduce the role of a civil servant and the ethical dilemmas faced in public service.
- Thesis Statement: Highlight the importance of evaluating the claims regarding ethical behavior and its implications.
2. Body
A. Claim (a): Ethical Conduct vs. Career Advancement
- Advantages:
- Short-term Gains: Unethical practices may lead to immediate promotions or financial benefits.
- Fact: Studies show that unethical behavior can sometimes yield short-term success (Brown & Treviño, 2006).
- Family Stability: Individuals may justify unethical behavior as a means to secure a better future for their families.
- Short-term Gains: Unethical practices may lead to immediate promotions or financial benefits.
- Disadvantages:
- Long-term Consequences: Unethical conduct can damage reputation and future opportunities.
- Fact: A tarnished reputation can hinder career advancement in the long run (Cohen et al., 2017).
- Erosion of Trust: Such practices undermine public trust in institutions.
- Long-term Consequences: Unethical conduct can damage reputation and future opportunities.
B. Claim (b): Minority vs. Majority in Ethical Behavior
- Advantages:
- Collective Impact: A few ethical individuals can contribute to a culture of integrity.
- Disadvantages:
- Perception of Futility: If most engage in unethical practices, it may discourage others from acting ethically.
- Fact: The feeling of isolation can lead to moral dilution among ethical individuals (Svensson, 2009).
- Perception of Futility: If most engage in unethical practices, it may discourage others from acting ethically.
C. Claim (c): Ethical Principles vs. Development Goals
- Advantages:
- Sustainable Development: Ethical practices promote accountability and long-term success.
- Fact: Ethical governance leads to more sustainable outcomes (KPMG, 2020).
- Sustainable Development: Ethical practices promote accountability and long-term success.
- Disadvantages:
- Short-term Setbacks: Ethical choices might slow down immediate progress.
D. Claim (d): Small Gifts in the System
- Advantages:
- Building Relationships: Small gifts can enhance relationships and improve workplace morale.
- Disadvantages:
- Slippery Slope: Accepting gifts can lead to ethical compromise and perceptions of corruption.
- Fact: Even small gifts can create an environment conducive to larger unethical practices (Svensson, 2009).
- Slippery Slope: Accepting gifts can lead to ethical compromise and perceptions of corruption.
3. Conclusion
- Summary: Recap the advantages and disadvantages of each claim.
- Final Thought: Emphasize the importance of maintaining ethical integrity in civil service for sustainable progress and public trust.
Examining the Ethical Statements
1. Ethical Conduct vs. Career Advancement
Merits:
Demerits:
Recent Example: In India, the case of Harsh Mander, an IAS officer known for his principled stand on humanitarian issues, shows that ethical conduct can lead to significant personal and professional sacrifices. Mander’s commitment to social justice sometimes clashed with entrenched bureaucratic practices.
2. Impact of Unfair Practices on the Majority
Merits:
Demerits:
Recent Example: The Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) exam scam highlighted how widespread unethical practices among many candidates can devalue the entire recruitment process, despite the efforts of a few honest individuals.
3. Ethical Means vs. Developmental Goals
Merits:
Demerits:
Recent Example: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), despite facing delays and challenges, maintained transparency and ethical practices, leading to a successful and well-regarded project that serves as a model for urban infrastructure development.
4. Small Gifts and System Efficiency
Merits:
Demerits:
Recent Example: The 2019 Air India bribery case, where small gifts were used to influence decision-making, demonstrates how minor unethical practices can lead to larger systemic corruption.
Conclusion: Ethical conduct in public service is fundamental for ensuring fairness, transparency, and long-term success. While challenges exist and unethical practices may sometimes appear to offer immediate benefits, adhering to ethical standards is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of governance and development. Balancing short-term efficiency with long-term integrity is essential for sustainable progress.
Model Answer
Introduction
As a responsible civil servant, navigating the complexities of ethical behavior in the workplace is paramount. The claims surrounding the challenges of adhering to moral principles versus the allure of unethical practices merit careful examination. This analysis explores the advantages and disadvantages of these claims.
Body
(a) Perception of Ethical Conduct
Merits:
Demerits:
(b) Minority vs. Majority in Ethical Behavior
Merits:
Demerits:
(c) Ethical Means vs. Development Goals
Merits:
Demerits:
(d) Small Gifts in the System
Merits:
Demerits:
Conclusion
While the claims presented may suggest certain short-term advantages, the long-term consequences of unethical behavior are far-reaching. Upholding ethical standards is crucial for building a sustainable, fair society and maintaining public trust in civil service. Ultimately, integrity serves as the backbone of effective governance, fostering an environment where progress is achieved through ethical means.