GS4 · Topic
Ethical Theories
A named framework used as a framework: consequentialism and utilitarianism, deontology and duty, virtue ethics, care ethics, and the tensions between them.
108 UPSC Mains GS4 questions on Ethical Theories that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2013–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Given below are quotations of moral thinkers/philosophers. Bring out what they mean to you in the present context: (a) Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value. Albert Einstein
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 16 toppers · CSE 2020–2023
Human ValuesWorld Thinkers
It is argued by some that nuclear weapons have acted more as a deterrent than leading to war and mass destruction. In this context, discuss whether it is ethically right to possess nuclear weapons to create nuclear deterrence.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 16 toppers · CSE 2017–2020
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
Discuss John Stuart Mill's idea on freedom of thought and expression. Also, give reasons as to why, according to Mill, representative democracy is the best form of government despite its inherent weaknesses.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 15 toppers · CSE 2017–2019
World ThinkersDimensions of Ethics
Undercover journalism exposes injustices, negligence, corruption and wrongdoing and yet going undercover to expose wrongdoing remains controversial. But, undercover journalists contend that they are fulfilling a fundamental duty of finding truth through their journalism. They argue that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy and the duty of the journalist is to further those ends by seeking truth and providing a fair and comprehensive account of events and issues. So, there are some supporters of this kind of journalism, which sometimes infringe the privacy of individuals. However, some journalists also urge avoiding surreptitious methods of gathering information except when traditional open methods will not yield information vital to the public. In this context, answer the following questions: 20 (a) What are the ethical issues involved in the practice of undercover journalism? (b) Do you support the practice of undercover investigation by journalists? Give reasons in support of your answer.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 14 toppers · CSE 2017–2019
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
The issues confronting humanity are multifaceted - from political conflicts and human rights abuses to pandemics and climate change. They are not contained within national borders, nor do they fit into the silos of separate government agencies or academic specialties. What is required is greater international cooperation, mutual respect, abiding by international laws and participative global decision-making. However, over the last decade, it has been observed that international relations have overshadowed these basic tenets of global governance and now we are at the verge of serious global catastrophic risks. When it comes to the structures of global governance, business as usual, is no longer an option. Not only an improvement in our understanding of risks is required but also taking responsibility to lead collective action for a coordinated global response. (a) What do you think are the factors hindering collective actions? (b) Provide a case for the moral obligation of the international community to come together and find solutions to the problems we face. (c) What should be the principles guiding such international cooperation?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 13 toppers · CSE 2020–2021
Ethics in International RelationsAccountability and Ethical Governance
What do you understand by "integrity-based civil disobedience"? Do you think a challenge to personal integrity can be a justifiable cause for responsible disobedience in civil services? Explain.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2021–2025
IntegrityEthical Dilemmas in Government
Technical efficiency ensures resource utilization and social efficiency ensures fulfillment of social needs, what does ethical efficiency ensure? Do you think ethical efficiency is more important than technical and social efficiency? Why/Why not?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 10 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Dimensions of EthicsCivil Service Values
"It is our first duty to serve society, and after we have done that, we may attend wholly to the salvation of our souls."
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Human ValuesIndian Thinkers
Goodness is the result of internal imperatives to do what is right, not sanctions from moral rules or rewards from expected consequences. Do you agree? Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
Analyse the ethical implications of the widening gap between rich and poor nations. Is there a moral obligation for developed countries to assist developing ones?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
The ongoing debate on euthanasia poses several ethical questions. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
"I do believe that, where there is only a choice between cowardice and violence, I would advise violence."- Mahatma Gandhi
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Indian ThinkersDimensions of Ethics
The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita offer valuable lessons for ethical conduct in public service. Discuss the relevance of these teachings in navigating the ethical issues of administration in contemporary India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Indian ThinkersCivil Service Values
Many argue that there are times, when war is morally permissible, and even obligatory. Critically discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Theories
In law a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics he is guilty if he only thinks of doing so. Immanuel Kant
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2020–2021
World ThinkersDimensions of Ethics
The logic of limitless wealth lies in the basic human instinct for furthering self-interest in the form of profit. In this context, do you think there is a possibility of pursuing ethical capitalism?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 8 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Corporate GovernanceDimensions of Ethics
Is there a conflict between morality and freedom? Discuss with reference to Kant's views on categorical imperative.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2017–2019
World ThinkersEthical Theories
In India, there exists a huge gap between demand for organ transplants and available donors, both living and cadaver. Besides a lack of awareness on organ donation, the rise of non-communicable and lifestyle diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes have led to increased instances of organ failure, in turn putting even more pressure on the demand for vital organs. According to reports, an estimated four lakh people die in India every year waiting for an organ transplant. Other than the legal and administrative issues, there are various ethical issues related to organ donation and transplantation in India. Provide an account of these ethical issues in detail. Also, discuss how the gap between demand and supply of organs in India can be closed.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2021
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
“May you live your life as if the maxim of your actions were to become universal law.”
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
World ThinkersEthical Theories
"With great power comes great responsibility." In the present context, 'Big Tech' headquartered in developed countries wield disproportionate influence over digital infrastructure, personal data, and global narratives—often prioritising profit over ethical considerations. What ethical principles should guide such corporations in building a fair, inclusive, and just global digital framework?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2025
Corporate GovernanceTechnology and Ethics
In pursuit of political power, means are often compromised that leads to competitive reliance on unethical practices resulting in erosion of public trust. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2019–2023
Civil Service ValuesEthical Dilemmas in Government
While traditional ethics has focussed on notions of justice, fair allocation and obligations, ethics of care emphasise maintaining connectedness and promoting care. Which of the above two ethical perspectives is more suitable for guiding ethical decision making in the context of public services. Explain your position with suitable examples.
10 marks · 300 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Ethical TheoriesCivil Service Values
"To achieve a good life, duty is not sufficient; one needs to develop one's sympathetic feelings for others, and neither duty alone nor good will alone are sufficient to be moral." Do you agree with the above statement? Justify your position.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Dimensions of EthicsEmpathy and Compassion
The moral worth of an action depends not on the consequences that flow from it, but on its motivation. Explain the statement with the help of suitable examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2019–2023
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
The universal adoption of common good approach poses the ethical dilemma of putting collective interests over and above the individual interests. Discuss with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2019–2023
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
Respect for human rights and humanitarian principles is a responsibility for all members of the international community. Discuss in the context of roles and responsibilities of States for protection of refugees.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2020–2021
Ethics in International RelationsEmpathy and Compassion
While some ethical approaches consider an action to be ethical based on results, other focus on means. Taking the example of Indian bureaucracy compare and examine how these approaches have played out for the benefit of citizens.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Ethical TheoriesEthical Dilemmas in Government
What do you understand by Amartya Sen's 'capability approach'? Analyse its significance in understanding social realities and in making a pro poor development strategy.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Indian ThinkersWorld Thinkers
Does the suffering of individuals in one part of the world generate moral demands of assistance on those foreigners who live far away from them? Are these moral demands of assistance justified? Can governments be held morally responsible for failing to help the international community in times of deprivation? Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
"Duty forms the cornerstone of administrative ethics, yet without integration of other ethical perspectives, it risks becoming mechanical compliance." Discuss how the interplay of duty, virtue, principle, and consequences can enrich ethical decision-making in public administration.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Civil Service ValuesEthical Theories