GS4 · 10 marks · 150 words

In public administration, ethical decision-making is shaped by multiple frameworks. How does a deontological or duty-based ethical approach differ from consequentialist theories such as utilitarianism in administrative practice? Illustrate your answer with an example of a moral dilemma in governance.

Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025

Ethical Theories Ethical Dilemmas in Government Dimensions of Ethics Civil Service Values

Syllabus: Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics - in private and public relationships. Human Values - lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.

How toppers approached it

From 2 of the 3 answers · about 190 words · 50% drew a diagram.

Opening

No separate opening2 of 2

Body

Points and prose2 of 2

A quotation1 of 2
A summary1 of 2

The toppers’ answers

Pakshal SecretryAIR 8 · CSE 2025 · 185 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

Various approaches and guidelines like code of ethics and conduct guide decision making in administrative purpose.

Deontological → given by Kant

Body · points and prose

→ focuses on means

Teleological → focus on ends → given by Bentham, JS MILL

Aspect	Deontological	Consequentialist
① Focus	means	ends
② Right decision	following one's duty	Decision that ensure greater good

	Deontological	Consequentialist
③ Significance	① Universal Action ② Follow Rules	① Best outcome ② Result oriented
④ Issues	Neglects greater good	use of unethical means

Administrative Decision Making

Close · a quotation

Example 1 : An old lady without document for welfare scheme

Deontology	Consequentialist
↓	↓
Deny Benefit	give Benefit

Example 2 : Survellence by administration for crime

Deontology	Consequentialist
↓	↓
Not allowed	allowed

Thus, Aristotle says, " focus not on means, nor on result, but a reasoned combination of two"

More on Ethical Theories

A named framework used as a framework: consequentialism and utilitarianism, deontology and duty, virtue ethics, care ethics, and the tensions between them.

All GS4 questions on Ethical Theories