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.
Answer the following in about 250 words each 3 x 20 = 60 (a) Two systems of thought have mainly been debated by thinkers on the idea of morality of actions. One system argues that the means are of paramount importance and with means all right, the ends will surely come. On the other hand, other system believes that the ends justify the means. Which view do you think is more appropriate for administrative setup/government in India? Give reasons.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2013
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentEthical Theories
Examine each of the options and identify your chosen course of action
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentWork Culture
Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do; both traditional and care ethics guide public officials in this regard.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
Ethical Issues involved in Affirmative Action Policy :-
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
The ends, no matter how valuable, cannot justify the means. Analyse. In your opinion, what is more important, adherence to means or to focus on ends?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
What do you understand by the term 'Situation Ethics'? Critically analyze its strengths & weaknesses in making moral judgements.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
Socratic concept of “Ethical dying” is a principled leave-taking from life. Compare and contrast it with the Gandhian concept of Satyagraha and Non-violence.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
World ThinkersIndian Thinkers
Analyze the ethical issues in (i) Abortion (ii) Euthanasia (iii) Death Penalty
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
What does each of the following quotation mean to you? a) A man can give up a right, but he may not give up a duty without being guilty of a grave dereliction. b) Justice without force is futile, force without justice is tyrannical.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Dimensions of EthicsIndian Thinkers
“Never say ‘no’, never say ‘I cannot’, for you are infinite. All the power is within you. You can do anything.” In your opinion what is the role of a positive attitude in the decision-making process.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
AttitudeEthical Theories
Capital punishment, or “death penalty,” is an institutionalized practice designed to result in deliberately executing persons in response to actual or supposed misconduct and following an authorized, rule-governed process to conclude that the person is responsible for violating norms that warrant execution. Punitive executions have historically been imposed by diverse kinds of authorities, for an expansive range of conduct, political or religious beliefs and practices, for a status beyond one’s control, or without employing any significant due process procedures. Punitive executions also have been and continue to be carried out more informally, such as by terrorist groups, urban gangs, and mobs. For centuries in Europe and America, discussions have focused on capital punishment as an institutionalized, rule-governed practice of modern states and legal systems governing serious criminal conduct and procedures. In light of the above debate of capital punishment, answer the following questions: (a) What are the arguments in favour of and against having capital punishment in the criminal justice system? (b) Do you think capital punishment has a place in modern civilised society? Examine in the context of moral implications involved in awarding it.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentLaw and Morality
"To delight in war is a merit in the soldier, a dangerous quality in the captain, and a positive crime in the statesman." - George Santayana. Can war be ethically justified? Discuss the moral Principles related to war.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Theories
Mr. Rajesh Kumar, a senior IAS officer, is posted as Principal Secretary of the Department of Urban Development. Mr. Kumar oversees a major infrastructure project to transform a densely populated urban slum into a modern residential area with improved amenities. Mr. Kumar's "Urban Renewal Initiative" project involves a multi-phase plan. The first phase focuses on relocating residents to temporary housing while construction begins on new apartment complexes. The project also includes the installation of modern sewage systems, clean drinking water facilities, community healthcare centres, and schools. The overarching goal is to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the slum dwellers, offering them a path to better opportunities and living standards. However, the project faces stiff opposition from a local political leader, Mr. Sharma, who has considerable influence in the area. Mr. Sharma argues that the redevelopment will displace many residents and disrupt their lives. While these concerns are valid, it is also evident that Mr. Sharma's opposition is motivated by his vested interest in maintaining control over the vote bank in the slum. His opposition to the project stems from a fear of losing this power if the residents' living conditions improve and they become less reliant on his patronage. In a private meeting, Mr. Sharma proposes a deal to Mr. Kumar. If the government awards construction contracts to firms controlled by Mr. Sharma's associates and family members, he will withdraw his opposition and support the project. This deal would expedite the project, ensuring the residents receive the promised benefits immediately. However, agreeing to Mr. Sharma's terms would mean compromising on the ethical principles of transparency and fairness in public procurement. Mr. Kumar was in a moral bind. Agreeing to Mr. Sharma's terms would mean engaging in corrupt practices, and rejecting the deal could delay or even derail the project, depriving the slum residents of much-needed improvements to their living conditions. (a) What are the ethical issues and dilemmas in the above case? (b) Considering the utilitarian perspective, do you think Mr. Kumar should have accepted Mr. Sharma's proposal to expedite the project for the greater good of the slum residents? Why or why not? (c) In the context of virtue ethics, discuss the importance of moral character and integrity for a senior civil servant like Mr. Kumar. How should these virtues guide his actions in resolving the dilemma?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentCorruption
"Ethics is not just a contemplative discipline. What we believe to be good or bad has implications on our actions." Discuss how different schools of ethics help us in making moral decisions.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethical TheoriesDimensions of Ethics
What is virtue ethics? How can a civil servant apply it to tackle day to day problems in public life?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethical TheoriesCivil Service Values
If one takes care of the means the end will take care of itself. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Indian ThinkersEthical Theories
"It is wrong to assume that ethical decisions are, can or should be purely rational and principled. Human feelings are an inseparable part of our ethical life." In what way do feelings impact our ethical decisions? Illustrate with examples. B. What do you understand by ethics management? Can public officials manage ethics in the work place in a manner similar to managing budgets, policies and people? Do you think adopting codes of ethics and conduct is sufficient enough for managing ethics in the workplace or something more is needed? Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Ethical TheoriesCodes of Ethics and Conduct
A terrorist group states that it has concealed a nuclear bomb in Delhi. The authorities have captured the leader of the group. He says that he knows the location of the bomb. He refuses to reveal the location. Torture is guaranteed to produce the information needed to ensure the diffusal of the bomb. (a) Is it ethically acceptable for the authorities to have him tortured to find out where the bomb is and thus save thousands of lives? (b) Suppose instead of catching the leader, the authorities have captured his 16 year old daughter. She is refusing to cooperate with the authorities. In your opinion is it morally justified to have her tortured to acquire necessary information and save thousands of lives?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2014
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentEthical Theories