Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- State the importance of ethical sensibility in public service.
- Highlight that merely complying with the law is insufficient for effective duty discharge.
2. Argument Supporting the Need for Ethical Sensibility
- Explain the distinction between law (rules and regulations) and ethics (principles of right and wrong).
- Emphasize that public servants must act in the public interest, which may not always align with legal compliance.
3. Examples Illustrating the Argument
(i) Ethically Right but Not Legally – Whistleblowing
- Definition: Explain whistleblowing as exposing unethical or illegal practices within an organization.
- Legal Risks: Discuss how whistleblowers may face legal actions for breaching confidentiality agreements (Brown, 2018).
- Ethical Importance: Emphasize the role of whistleblowers in promoting transparency and accountability, thus serving the public good.
(ii) Legally Right but Not Ethically – Discrimination
- Definition: Define discrimination and provide context on affirmative action policies.
- Legal Permissibility: Mention how certain discriminatory practices can be legal under affirmative action (Smith, 2020).
- Ethical Implications: Discuss the negative consequences of discrimination, such as perpetuating inequality and societal division.
4. Conclusion
- Summarize the necessity of a well-developed ethical sensibility for public servants.
- Reinforce the idea that legal compliance alone is inadequate for serving the public effectively.
Importance of Ethical Sensibility in Public Service
I agree that mere compliance with the law is not enough for public servants. They must also possess a well-developed ethical sensibility to effectively discharge their duties. Laws provide a framework, but ethics guide the spirit of service and ensure fairness, justice, and compassion in decision-making.
(i) Ethically Right but Not Legally
(ii) Legally Right but Not Ethically
Conclusion
Public servants must go beyond legal compliance and develop a strong ethical framework to navigate complex situations where laws may not always align with moral considerations. This ensures that their actions not only uphold the law but also promote justice, equity, and human dignity.
Model Answer
Introduction
A mere compliance with the law is insufficient for public servants tasked with effectively discharging their duties. They must cultivate a keen sensibility to ethical issues, as ethics involves principles of right and wrong behavior, while the law encompasses rules and regulations. Solely adhering to legal standards may not always align with the public’s best interests.
Body
Example 1: Ethically Right but Not Legal – Whistleblowing
Whistleblowing involves exposing illegal or unethical practices within an organization. While this act is ethically commendable, it may not always be legal. For instance, a whistleblower who discloses information about fraudulent activities might face legal repercussions for breaching confidentiality agreements or violating trade secrets (Brown, 2018). Despite the legal risks, whistleblowers play a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability, thereby fostering public trust in institutions.
Example 2: Legally Right but Not Ethically – Discrimination
Conversely, discrimination can be legally permissible under certain circumstances, such as affirmative action policies. While these policies aim to rectify historical injustices, they can lead to ethically questionable outcomes when they unfairly disadvantage individuals based solely on their race or gender (Smith, 2020). Such discrimination undermines the principles of equality and fairness, creating societal divisions and perpetuating cycles of inequality.
Conclusion
Public servants must develop a strong sensibility to ethical issues to effectively fulfill their responsibilities. Legal compliance is essential, but it does not encompass the broader moral landscape in which public servants operate. The examples of whistleblowing and discrimination illustrate the necessity of balancing legal adherence with ethical considerations, ensuring actions align with the best interests of the public.