GS4 · Topic
Technology and Ethics
Obligation raised by a technology rather than by a person: artificial intelligence and algorithmic decisions, facial recognition and digital surveillance, data privacy and consent, social media's effect on attitudes, autonomous weapons, gene editing and bioethics, and the regulation of any of them.
105 UPSC Mains GS4 questions on Technology and Ethics that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2016–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Identify the ethical concerns associated with the nudge technique. Also, suggest ways for using nudging theory ethically.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentTechnology and Ethics
Examine the evolving nature of ethics in the digital age. Discuss the ethical challenges posed by advancements in technology and the role of governance in ensuring ethical standards in the digital realm.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Technology and EthicsAccountability and Ethical Governance
"As biotechnology blurs the lines between healing and enhancement, nature and design, the ethical foundations of science face unprecedented scrutiny." Critically examine the role of Bio Ethics in dealing with the ethical challenges posed by advancements in biotechnology.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Technology and EthicsDimensions of Ethics
Define the term "ethical hacking". What are the principles that separate ethical hacking from malicious hacking?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Technology and EthicsIntegrity
“The rise of hybrid work models has redefined workplace ethics, blurring the boundaries between personal autonomy and professional accountability.” Critically analyze the ethical challenges emerging from remote and hybrid work arrangements. How can organizations balance flexibility with fairness, trust with transparency, and productivity with employee well-being in the evolving work culture?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Work CultureTechnology and Ethics
You are posted as the District Magistrate (DM) of a district in the Nav Pradesh state of the country. Ramesh, a newly joined SDM in your district, actively engages with the public and is also known for his fitness-related activities. He has a strong presence on social media platforms, where he frequently posts about his work life and fitness endeavors on his personal account. Furthermore, he encourages the public to report issues within the district through his personal social media accounts, and he responds to their concerns, ensuring prompt actions are taken to address these issues. His active presence on social media has garnered him a massive following, not only in the district but also beyond. Also, direct communication with the public has led to a perception of greater transparency and accessibility of district administration in the eyes of the public. While Ramesh receives praise for his work in enhancing the trust and credibility of the administration, Ramesh's social media activities have also raised concerns among some of his colleagues and superiors. They argue that his posts often go beyond mere updates and venture into self-promotion, potentially blurring the lines between his personal life and his professional responsibilities. They express apprehensions that Ramesh might be seeking personal attention or recognition rather than focusing on his core duties as an SDM. Some of his juniors lamented working with him, as he often scolds them in public, and that too in the presence of cameras. One day, a local MLA arrives at your office regarding a complaint that some of the posts by Ramesh are self-promoting in nature and expresses deep concern over the matter. He alleges that wherever the SDM goes, the normal functioning of the institution is hampered, and one of his official inspections near the highway resulted in heavy traffic congestion, leading to discomfort for commuters. He also says that while doing public work, Ramesh is perversely taking center stage and doesn't give enough credit to others. He expresses his apprehension that Ramesh might capitalize on this goodwill and may soon enter politics in the near future. He further said that in one of his posts, he seemingly divulged some classified information regarding the security apparatus of a high-level dignitary, which could have seriously jeopardized the dignitary's security arrangements. On enquiring Ramesh, he argues that it is the duty of a civil servant to convey all the important information to the public about different schemes of the department. It would also improve the image of the administration among the public. Being in touch with the public would also help him better understand and address grassroots issues. Also, his fitness-related activities are to create awareness about healthy lifestyles, especially among the youth. He argues that his center-stage appearances at functions are because of requests from the organizing authorities of the functions. He also asserts that there is no hidden agenda in his actions. Some of your senior authorities have also expressed reservations about the active participation of civil servants on social media. They argue that Ramesh's activities are merely part of his regular work and should not be glorified. They assert that bureaucrats should prioritize public service without seeking personal branding, and such self-promotion can create an impression of self-aggrandizement and detract from the selfless nature of public service. Using fancy photos and highlighting official cars, residences, etc. as clickbait goes against the dignity that is expected of a public servant. By the very nature of the job, it is expected that bureaucracy should work behind a fine veil. Bureaucratic anonymity is a foundational value expected from a civil servant to ensure that a civil servant does not develop the negative externalities associated with the personality cult. Such social media posturing also runs the risk of civil servants playing to the gallery as every action comes under popular scrutiny. The point of reference becomes their social media viewership rather than the constitutional mandate. a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case study? b) Critically assess the role of social media in administration. c) What are the various possible choices available to you and which course of action would you choose? Justify your choice.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Civil Service ValuesTechnology and Ethics
MEASURES TO BE TAKEN TO MINIMIZE THE NEGATIVE IMPLICATIONS OF SUCH TECHNOLOGIES :-
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Technology and EthicsLaw and Morality
The terrorist attack at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, California, on December 2, 2015 resulted into killing of 14 people and injuring 22 others. Both the perpetrators involved in the attack were killed in a shootout by law enforcement later that same day. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducting the investigation recovered an undamaged iPhone in the shootout from one of the shooters. The phone had a six-digit password and was set to eliminate all its data after five failed password attempts. FBI desired access to the data for which it appealed the Apple, a private company, to create a new software that would enable FBI to unlock the phone. They wanted to extract data like contacts, photos and calls from locked iPhones in order to assist in criminal investigations and prosecutions. Apple denied the request of the FBI to build a backdoor into the iPhone. Apple argued that building a backdoor would have far reaching consequence beyond the case and would jeopardize the data security of other Apple users as well. They further explained that while selling their devices, apple has entered into a legal contract promising to preserve the privacy of their users. Allowing government to access the iPhone will lead to breach in trust that exist between the customer and the company. The government suggested utilization of the tool only once for this particular phone. Opposing the suggestion, Apple explained that once created, the technique could be used over and over again, on any number of devices. The company concluded it would be wrong for the government to force them to build a backdoor into their products. The case was widely covered by the print and electronic media. There was a surge in 'for and against' debate on the social media platforms. Tech giants such as Microsoft and Facebook also supported Apple and displayed their opposition to the government's demand for creating a backdoor. The families of victims and survivors of the attack supported the FBI's demand. The National Sheriffs' Association remarked Apple's stance as "putting profit over safety" and "has nothing to do with privacy." Considering the whole situation, do you agree that Apple's action was justified? Why or why not? Make an argument by weighing the competing values in this case.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Technology and EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
Various studies have found out that cases of depression and mental illness have increased exponentially in the recent past. Also, in the age group of 15-30 years, this problem is further pronounced. Furthermore, the rising trend of suicides in this age group has been attributed to depression. Given the situation, answer the following questions: (a) Present an ethical critique of the prevalent societal attitude towards mental illness. (b) Given the magnitude of the problem among younger generation/young adults, analyse the role of the following: i. Parenting ii. Social Media iii. Video Games
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
Human ValuesFamily, Society and Education
AI like any other scientific development is only a "tool" which can be used both ways. Discuss how this dual nature calls for a comprehensive national AI policy framework.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Technology and EthicsAccountability and Ethical Governance
A certain State government was running a welfare scheme for promoting safe motherhood among rural landless laborers’ families. The scheme involves the transfer of funds to the beneficiaries to enable them to mitigate income loss due to maternal care responsibilities. Since its implementation, the scheme has done reasonably well on maternal health and economic indicators. You are the Director of the Department responsible for implementing and operating the scheme. Recently you have been receiving reports of welfare fraud being committed by families by producing fake bona fide. The families committed the fraud with the help of local officials responsible for scrutinizing the bonafide. You were concerned because the fraud being committed was seriously undermining the scheme’s efficiency. You called for a departmental meeting to discuss and find a solution to the problem. In the meeting, it was decided to merge several available government data sets such as Aadhar cards, voter ID cards, marriage certificates, birth certificates, bank details, and other personal assets. By merging all the data sets, the department would be able to develop the beneficiary’s economic profile. And this will help the department scrutinize the documents and detect fraud. This was a comprehensive strategy, but it risked violating an individual’s data privacy. As a Department head, you wanted to detect and prevent fraud, but at the same time, you were apprehensive about violating the Data privacy of the stakeholders. (a) What are the issues involved in the above case? (b) Do you think violating data privacy is justified to prevent welfare fraud? Why / Why not? (c) What, according to you, can be the reasons for such welfare frauds happening in the country? (d) Are there any ways and means to prevent such fraud? Give your suggestions.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
CorruptionTechnology and Ethics
In the era of digital education, the crisis of virtual colonialism is often regarded as challenge to notion of vocational training as comprehensive solution for value based education.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Family, Society and EducationTechnology and Ethics
Our behaviour in virtual world are different than in offline environment as both have different characteristics
Answered by 1 topper
Dimensions of EthicsTechnology and Ethics
Technology has brought private affairs of people in the public space today. Do you think people have become more unethical today, as compared to the past?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Dimensions of EthicsEthics in Private and Public Life
As AI systems become deeply embedded in societal frameworks, it is imperative to ensure their design and deployment prioritize human well-being, equity, and fairness. In this context, what values should guide the development of trustworthy, human-centered AI systems?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Technology and EthicsAccountability and Ethical Governance
What measures can you propose to reduce the reliance on animal testing in the company's future research?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Corporate GovernanceEnvironmental Ethics
The proliferation of social media platforms have empowered the citizens and enabled them to freely share their views, including criticism of the government and its functionaries. However, it has also given rise to serious concerns such as spread of fake news, hate speech, revenge porn etc., which have grown manifold in recent years. Moreover, there are growing issues related to lack of transparency, accountability and rights of users of such social media platforms. In this context, what should be the underlying principles to regulate the social media platforms? Also, suggest a framework to address the associated issues and concerns and make such platforms a safe place for its diverse users.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Technology and EthicsAccountability and Ethical Governance
What are the socio-psychological factors that motivate people to join the mob and kill fellow human beings? (b) Identify the implications of increasing crime of lynching on society. (c) Examine the role of social media in recent instances of mob lynching. As a law enforcement officer, how will you prevent such incidents from happening in your district?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
Social Influence and PersuasionTechnology and Ethics
In recent years, India has witnessed an explosion of self-styled financial influencers or "finfluencers" on social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). These individuals, often without formal financial qualifications, offer stock market tips, mutual fund suggestions, crypto investment advice, and more to millions of followers. However, this unregulated space has now become a serious concern. A recent example involved a well-known finfluencer promoting a newly listed stock as a "hidden gem." Thousands of people invested in it, causing its price to spike artificially. A few weeks later, the stock crashed, revealing that the finfluencer had received undisclosed compensation from the company's promoters to create promotional content — effectively making it a "pump and dump" scheme. This led to public uproar, loss of hard-earned money by common people, and an erosion of trust in online financial content. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) initiated an investigation but faced challenges due to loopholes in current digital regulation frameworks. Meanwhile, several other finfluencers continue similar activities unchecked. You are an officer in the Ministry of Finance, asked to look into this growing menace and propose policy and ethical safeguards (a) Identify and evaluate the key ethical issues involved in this case. (b) What steps would you suggest to ensure that financial influencers act with accountability and integrity? How would you balance the need for regulation with the right to freedom of expression? (c) What role can digital platforms and social media companies play in promoting ethical content?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Corporate GovernanceIntegrity
You are a young and diligent IPS officer who is known for efficiency. You have been working as an additional commissioner of police in a metropolitan city. The city is known for its thriving opportunities that attracts youngsters from all across the nation. In recent years, the city is witnessing a steep rise in cases of cyber crime where people have lost their hard earned money, women have been blackmailed, and youngsters have been bullied. But the conviction rate has almost remained zero. This has made people lose faith in the police department and has brought in widespread criticism. This has also brought disrepute to the city as well as the state. Taking cognizance of the issue, the state government has constituted a special cell to combat cyber crimes and you have been appointed to head the team. a. What will be your priorities and strategy to combat cyber crimes? b. What are the reasons for the thriving of cyber criminals in the country as a whole?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Crisis Decision MakingTechnology and Ethics
The emergence of Artificial Intelligence has impacted the ethical decision-making process of individuals. Discuss with suitable examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Technology and EthicsDimensions of Ethics
Ethical AI is not limited to what is permissible by law. Legal limits about the use of AI set a minimum threshold of acceptability, while ethical AI sets policies that go beyond legal requirements to ensure respect for fundamental human values. Critically analyze. [10M]
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Technology and EthicsLaw and Morality
You are posted as the Joint Secretary in the Department of Information Technology of a state. The government recently implemented several citizen-centric digital services, collecting large volumes of personal data from residents. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, requires that such data be processed only with explicit and informed consent, and mandates that processing must cease immediately upon withdrawal of consent. During an internal audit, you discover that the department continues to process and analyze personal data of several citizens even after they have formally withdrawn their consent. This data is being used for policy analytics and service improvement, purposes not explicitly disclosed at the time of data collection. When you bring this to the attention of your department head, you are informed that halting the processing will disrupt ongoing digital initiatives and may affect state-level performance metrics. Moreover, you find that the consent withdrawal process is cumbersome, and many citizens are unaware of their rights under the DPDP Act. You also learn that a prominent social activist is planning to file a complaint with the Data Protection Board against involuntary use of personal data, which could attract public scrutiny and legal action against the department.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Technology and EthicsTransparency and Information
Space exploration has the potential to benefit all of humanity, yet it is currently dominated by a few powerful nations and private corporations. In this context, discuss the ethical issues arising from this imbalance in control and access to space resources.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsTechnology and Ethics
Social media has revolutionized our interactions. The need for having reasonable restrictions has to be analysed from viewpoint of different stakeholders.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Technology and EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
Discuss the ethical considerations associated with genome editing. (b) In the light of these ethical issues, provide an ethical framework on how this technology can be used for the betterment of humanity.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Technology and EthicsDimensions of Ethics
Ethical framework on how the technology can be used for the betterment of humanity :-
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Technology and EthicsHuman Values
In late November, as a thick layer of smog settled on the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi, patients began to experience extended wait times. Long lines snaked along the vast building and backed up for several yards. Computers at the hospital had stopped working, so medical reports could not be generated. Though patients were still being treated, paper bills were being handed out. After a few days, people who feared that traveling back home would be too expensive began to sleep under a nearby overpass to wait it out. A massive cyberattack had compromised the health data of millions of patients, from those who live in extreme poverty to high-profile politicians, bureaucrats and judges. The Delhi Police had a bigger problem at hand. They were in possession of an email that read, "What happened? Your files are encrypted? What is the price to repair? The price depends on how fast you can pay to us," reported news sources. The police soon confirmed that the servers at AIIMS were attacked and data was being held for ransom. Police sources were quoted as saying the attack originated oustide the country. Cybersecurity experts express larger concerns. Since India does not have robust cybersecurity systems or strong data protection laws, the breach has made observers uneasy about plans to digitize the health records of all Indians. Cybersecurity experts are doubtful about getting informed consent as that concept is relatively new in the country. With plans for ubiquitous sharing of health records across hospitals, doctors, insurance agencies and health tech firms, Indians' health data is expected to be more prone to leaks, data breaches and exploitation. Currently, the safety of a patient's data will depend on how safe the hospital servers are. Under the present regulatory regime, all hospitals will be responsible for storing and protecting the patient data they collect. a) Identify the ethical issues associated with ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure. b) What measures would you suggest to pursue digitization while balancing the risks of scaling up? Justify.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Technology and EthicsEthical Dilemmas in Government
With rapidly increasing use of IT, what according to you is the role of ethics in cyber space?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
Technology and EthicsDimensions of Ethics
Highlight the options available to you in this scenario and evaluate each of them. What course of action will you take and why? (b) Is there a need for having reasonable restrictions on social media for it to remain a platform of healthy and fruitful engagement. Analyse from the viewpoint of different stakeholders.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Corporate GovernanceTechnology and Ethics