Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction 

• Define conscience as the inner moral compass that guides ethical decision-making.
• Highlight its significance in resolving moral dilemmas but acknowledge that it is prone to limitations.

Example:
“Conscience, an innate sense of right and wrong, plays a critical role in guiding ethical behavior. While it often aids individuals in navigating complex moral dilemmas, its subjectivity and susceptibility to bias can lead to ethical inconsistencies.”

2. Main Body 

A. Importance of Conscience in Ethical Decision-Making

1. Moral Intuition in Ethical Dilemmas
   • Example: Edward Snowden exposed government surveillance based on ethical considerations, despite legal risks.
   • Fact: Moral dilemmas often require prioritizing ethics over laws
2. Fostering Moral Autonomy
   • Example: Sunderlal Bahuguna’s activism for environmental conservation was driven by his conscience.
   • Fact: Autonomy in ethical decisions aligns with principles of Kantian ethics.
3. Guiding Resistance Against Injustice
   • Example: Rosa Parks’ stand against racial segregation reflected her moral conviction.
   • Fact: Conscience plays a crucial role in civil rights movements.

B. Limitations of Conscience

1. Subjectivity
   • Example: Views on passive euthanasia vary based on personal values.
   • Fact: Ethical subjectivity challenges moral universality.
2. Cultural and Social Conditioning
   • Example: Practices like slavery or Sati were justified by societal norms of their time.
   • Fact: Socio-cultural influences can distort moral judgment.
3. Limited Perspective
   • Example: A business leader prioritizing profits over environmental responsibility.
   • Fact: Individual interests can overshadow societal welfare.
4. Susceptibility to Bias
   • Example: A journalist’s political leanings leading to biased reporting.
   • Fact: Bias undermines ethical decision-making .

3. Conclusion 

• Summarize the dual nature of conscience, emphasizing its role in ethical introspection and decision-making.
• Recommend balancing conscience with rationality, societal norms, and legal frameworks.

Example:
“While conscience is a vital ethical guide, its limitations necessitate a balanced approach. Rational deliberation and external standards are essential to ensure just and consistent ethical decisions.”

Relevant Facts

1. Edward Snowden Example:
   • Exposed unethical surveillance due to moral convictions.
2. Kantian Ethics:
   • Stresses moral autonomy and the role of free will.
3. Historical Practices (Slavery/Sati):
   • Socio-cultural conditioning can distort conscience.
4. Civil Rights Movements:
   • Conscience inspires resistance to injustice.
5. Ethical Bias in Journalism:
   • Personal biases can lead to ethical distortions.

By adhering to this roadmap, your answer will be well-structured, factually rich, and balanced.