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.
"Gandhian ethics emphasize purity of means, truth, and moral courage even when outcomes are uncertain." Critically evaluate whether such absolutist ethics are compatible with the demands of modern public administration, where administrative realism and pragmatism are often necessary.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Indian ThinkersEthical Theories
"Morality is based neither on the principle of utility, nor on a law of nature, but on human reason. But human reason can be fallible." Comment., What does morality mean to you?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2016–2018
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
"Ideas are the cornerstone of a strong public service framework globally." In the context of this statement, discuss the ideas of a philosopher whose ideas you believe are most pertinent to the civil services in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Indian ThinkersCivil Service Values
"I care only for the Spirit - when that is right, everything will be righted by itself". Swami Vivekananda.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2023
Indian ThinkersHuman Values
“We are not only responsible for what we do, but also for what we fail to do”- Molière.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Dimensions of EthicsIntegrity
Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Dimensions of EthicsEthics in Private and Public Life
Is greed wholly a vice or a trait of character that has both positive and negative sides? Could you relate it to the utilitarian philosophy that emphasizes pursuit of self interest by individuals as the basis of economic well being? (b) Are there some things that money shouldn't buy? Illustrate with examples.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Dimensions of EthicsWorld Thinkers
"Act only according to that maxim through which you can at the same time will that it become a universal law."- Immanuel Kant
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
World ThinkersEthical Theories
Certain actions can be right even though they do not maximize good consequences, for the rightness of such actions consists in their representing certain norms. Discuss with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2023
Ethical TheoriesDimensions of Ethics
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 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 4 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentEthical Theories
It is morally permissible to perform an action in pursuit of a good end in full knowledge that the action might also bring about bad results. Critically examine the statement with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2019–2024
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
"Your goodness is an impediment in your way, so let your eyes be red with anger, and try to fight the injustice with a firm hand."- Sardar Patel
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Indian ThinkersHuman Values
We live in a time when almost everything can be bought and sold. Over the past few years, markets and market values have come to govern our lives as never before. Today the logic of buying and selling no longer applies to material good alone but increasingly governs the whole of life. However, there is a wide spread realization that markets have become detached from morals and we need to somehow reconnect them. The use of markets to allocate social goods has also been a cause of concern. In this context, answer the following: 20 (a) Is greed wholly a vice or a trait of character that has both positive and negative sides? Could you relate it to the utilitarian philosophy that emphasizes pursuit of self interest by individuals as the basis of economic well being? (b) Are there some things that money shouldn't buy? Illustrate with examples.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
What do you understand by the term 'situation ethics'? Critically analyze its strengths and weaknesses in making moral judgements.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
"There is growing evidence that when it comes to moral judgment, human beings appear to be best characterised not as intuitive Deontologists or Consequentialists but as intuitive virtue theorists." Critically analyse the statement.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Ethical TheoriesDimensions of Ethics
"The recognition of the horrors of nuclear weapons should compel nations to move towards meaningful disarmament. However, geopolitical interests continue to hinder genuine progress in this direction. What are the ethical considerations of nuclear states to pursue global disarmament, and how can the international community balance security concerns with the moral imperative of a nuclear-free world?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2025
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
"While corruption is never good, not all forms of corruption are equally bad for the economy, nor do they cause the same kind of harm." Critically analyse the statement in the context of India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2021
CorruptionEthical Theories
While one group considers abortion as unmitigated evil, the other sees it as morally acceptable. Analyse various ethical concerns related to abortion and give your opinion on the issue.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2022
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
Morality is neither divine commands nor universal principle of thought rather practices developed by groups of human beings striving to avoid mutually harmful conflict and promote mutually beneficial cooperation. Comment.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2021–2022
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
"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?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Theories
'Happiness is a mysterious thing, to be found somewhere between too little and too much.'
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023
Dimensions of EthicsHuman Values
Do you agree with feminist ethicists that women are "more emotional" and prioritise relationships over rules, reflecting different yet equally valuable ethical perspectives? Justify your viewpoints with suitable examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
Do you think it is ethically justified for political leaders to violate the deepest constraints of morality in order to achieve great goods or avoid disasters for their communities? Justify your position with suitable examples
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentDimensions of Ethics
What is the ethical basis behind the idea of reparations for historical wrongs committed against certain groups?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2021–2022
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
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.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Ethical TheoriesEthical Dilemmas in Government
Moral quality of an action should be judged by its consequences on human happiness. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Ethical TheoriesWorld Thinkers
Is greed wholly a vice or a trait of character that has both positive and negative sides? Could you relate it to the utilitarian philosophy that emphasizes pursuit of self interest by individuals as the basis of economic well being?
Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2018–2019
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories
A. 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 · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Ethical TheoriesCivil Service Values
The means used shape the outcome, so the ends cannot justify the means. Discuss with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · 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.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2022
Dimensions of EthicsEthical Theories