GS4 · 10 marks · 150 words

"Global challenges often test the ethical fiber of nations, urging them to channel narrow pursuit of national-interest into an enlightened self-interest." Enumerating the various ethical principles underlying the concept of enlightened national-interest examine its efficacy in helping nations navigate the fine line between pursuing their strategic interests and upholding ethical principles, particularly in times of conflict?

Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2022–2024

Ethics in International RelationsEthical Theories

Syllabus: Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.

How toppers approached it

From all 3 answers · about 140 words · 67% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • A date or context1 of 3
  • A definition1 of 3
  • No separate opening1 of 3

Body

  • Points and prose2 of 3
  • Points1 of 3

Close

  • No separate close1 of 3
  • A summary1 of 3
  • A way forward1 of 3

The toppers’ answers

Aayushi BansalAIR 7 · CSE 2024 · 95 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

Today's globalised world requires pursuit of liberation based ethics in international relations over real politik.

Ethical principles → enlightened national interest

Body · points and prose

  1. Absolute interests over relative interests. Eg → developing countries pursuing climate conservation despite not causing climate change.

  2. World peace based on democracy, trade & international laws Eg → UNCLOS

  3. Altruistic motives also taken account Eg → India helping Sri Lanka. for.

  4. Increased cooperation & collaboration.

Diagram
Efficacy of enlightened national interest |-- effective |-- 1 Upholds peace, important for both world & own interest. |-- 2 Increased collaboration leads to better prosperity for all (common good) |-- 3 Saving planet saves most vulnerable within nation. |-- not-effective |-- 1 War might be necessary for territorial sovereignty |-- 2 May not have resources |-- 3 Other nations may force to abandon principles Eg → China in South China Sea.

Close

Conflict → enlightened national interest can help to uphold interest of both nation & world ensuring common welfare.

One must be guided by 'Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam'.

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