VAJIRAM & RAVI

Institute for IAS Examination

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Programe
Ethics Module - 1

Model Answers
Q.1) a) It is believed that adherence to ethics in human actions would ensure the smooth functioning of an
organization/ system. If so, what does ethics seek to promote in human life? How do ethical values assist in the
resolution of conflicts faced by him in his day-to-day functioning?

Answer: Ethics comes from the Greek word “ethos”, which means character, habit, culture, etc. and represents the Code
of conduct that we expect of clothes and [Link] regulates and directs life and gives orientation to one’s existence.
Ethics provides a framework for individuals and societies to make decisions about what is morally right or wrong, just or
unjust, and it helps guide behavior.

Ethics seeks to promote several fundamental values and principles in human life:
● Moral Integrity: Ethics encourages individuals to uphold honesty, integrity, and transparency in their
personal and professional lives. It advocates for doing what is right, even in the absence of oversight.
● Fairness and Justice: Ethical values emphasize the importance of treating all individuals equitably,
without bias related to their background, race, religion, or social status. This commitment to justice
contributes to a more just society.
● Respect for Others: Ethics promotes respect for the rights, beliefs, and autonomy of others. It urges
individuals to contemplate the consequences of their actions on others and to refrain from causing harm
or violating their rights.
● Accountability: Ethical values require individuals to take ownership of their actions and choices. This
sense of responsibility nurtures trust within organizations and society as a whole.
● Trust and Credibility: Adhering to ethical principles nurtures trust and credibility, both on an individual
and organizational level. People are more likely to have faith in individuals and institutions that
consistently demonstrate ethical conduct.
● Conflict Resolution: Ethical values offer a structured approach for effectively resolving conflicts
individuals may encounter in their daily lives.

Ethical values assist in conflict resolution:

● Ethical Decision-Making: When faced with a conflict, individuals can apply ethical principles to evaluate
their options and choose the course of action that aligns with their values and principles.
● Mediation and Negotiation: Ethical communication and negotiation techniques, such as active
listening, empathy, and respect for opposing viewpoints, can help parties in conflict find common
ground and reach mutually acceptable solutions.
● Fairness and Impartiality: Ethical considerations ensure that conflicts are addressed fairly and
impartially, reducing the chances of bias and favoritism influencing the resolution process.
● Conflict Prevention: Ethical behavior can also help prevent conflicts from arising in the first place by
promoting clear communication, trust, and respect within relationships and organizations.
Ethics seeks to promote values such as integrity, justice, respect, and accountability in human life. These values, when
integrated into an individual's actions and organizational culture, contribute to the smooth functioning of systems and
help in the resolution of conflicts by providing a framework for ethical decision-making and fostering trust and fairness.

b) Differentiate moral intuition from moral reasoning with suitable examples.

Answer: Ethical decision-making involves evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a manner consistent with ethical
principles. Moral intuition and moral reasoning are two fundamental concepts in understanding how individuals make
ethical decisions. Moral intuition operates as an immediate, emotion-driven response, whereas moral reasoning involves
a deliberate, rational analysis before reaching a moral decision.

Aspects Moral Intuition Moral Reasoning

Immediate and automatic judgement about the The deliberate process of determining right or
Definition right or wrong of a situation, often driven by wrong through logical analysis, involving critical
emotions and instinctive reactions. thinking and evaluation of ethical principles.

Involves conscious thought, where one applies

Often instantaneous, arising from gut feelings
Characteristic moral principles and ethical theories to reach a
without conscious reasoning.
conclusion.

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 Importance in Plays a foundational role, forming the Comes into play when one seeks to justify a
Moral immediate judgement that can later be moral judgement or when engaging in moral
Judgements analyzed through reasoning. discussions and debates.

Grounded in innate tendencies and shaped by Relies on cognitive processes and often involves
Psychological
evolutionary processes, cultural norms, and employing moral philosophies such as
Basis
personal experiences. utilitarianism or deontology.

Can be biased and subject to personal Can sometimes be influenced by an individual’s

Objectivity prejudices and might not always lead to morally moral intuition, and therefore not entirely
correct judgments. objective.

Evolves with cognitive development and

Moral Develops early in life, with children showcasing
education, becoming more refined with
Development basic moral intuitions.
intellectual maturity.

1. Critically evaluating the implications of a

1. Feeling an instant disapproval upon seeing policy on various stakeholders and making a
someone steal, without analyzing the act in decision based on principles of justice and
depth. fairness.
Examples
2. Feeling a spontaneous urge to donate to a 2. Deliberating on the allocation of limited
charitable cause upon hearing about a natural medical resources (like ventilators) during a
disaster or a humanitarian crisis. pandemic, considering principles of justice,
equity, and the greater good.

Moral intuition provides immediate emotional responses to ethical situations, while moral reasoning employs a more
analytical approach, considering implications and consequences. These processes work in tandem, with intuition serving
as an instinctive guide and reasoning providing refinement. Together, they form a comprehensive framework for ethical
decision-making, allowing for nuanced responses to complex dilemmas.

Q.2) a) What were the major teachings of Saint Kabir? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

Answer: Kabir was a 15th-century mystic poet and saint of India, whose writings influenced by bhakti movement and
his verses are found in Sikhism's scripture Adi Granth. His early life was in a Muslim family, but he was strongly influenced
by his teacher, the Hindu bhakti leader Ramananda.

Sant Kabir’s Philosophy

● Kabir was a monotheist (muwahhid) who believed in the presence of one God in our hearts.
● In his philosophy, no religion or ritual is superior to humanity.
● The ultimate goal of human life, according to Kabir, is to realize God, seek inner Self, and serve those in
need.
● Guru's grace is crucial for salvation in his ideology, regardless of caste, class, gender, or economic status.
● Kabir believed that no one is born with innate greatness and that ethical conduct is essential.
● He advocated for Ahimsa (non-violence) and urged people to treat all creatures with fairness and
respect.

Kabir’s Philosophy Relevance in today's world

● Monotheism and Inner Spirituality: In a world filled with diverse beliefs, his message of a universal,
personal connection to the divine can foster tolerance and understanding among people of different
faiths.
● Equality and Social Justice: His call for treating all individuals with respect, regardless of their
background, remains relevant in the fight against discrimination and prejudice.
● Environmental Consciousness: Kabir's acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of all life and his
advocacy for Ahimsa (non-violence) resonate with contemporary concerns about environmental
conservation. His message of reverence for all creatures and nature can inspire eco-friendly practices
and sustainability. For example: Call by Prime Minister for PRO PLANET PEOPLE under Mission LiFE
● Social Reform and Activism: Kabir's role as a social reformer and his critique of societal norms offer
inspiration for individuals and movements striving for positive change today. challenging the status quo
can empower activists and advocates for justice and equity.

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 In today's world, where issues related to spirituality, social justice, ethics, and the environment are pressing
concerns, Kabir's philosophy continues to offer valuable insights and a timeless roadmap for a more
compassionate and harmonious society.

b) What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements is a definite set of emotional skills
– your EQ – not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests. Do you agree with this
view? Give reasons in support of your answer.

Answer: Emotional Intelligence involves identifying emotions, labelling them accurately, and using this awareness to
make thoughtful decisions and interact effectively. The degree of emotional intelligence in an individual is termed their
Emotional Quotient (EQ). While cognitive abilities, as measured by IQ tests, are important for specific analytical tasks
and academic pursuits, EQ plays a crucial role in many facets of life that determine success, character, and happiness.

EQ has greater significance in comparison to IQ for various life objectives.

This perspective is supported by several compelling reasons:
● Success: IQ helps in academic and technical feats like solving complex problems. Emotional intelligence
(EQ) surpasses IQ in importance for success because it fosters collaboration, leadership, and
adaptability. It enables ethical leadership, promoting teamwork and empathy.
○ For example, Steve Jobs, known for his exceptional EQ, transformed Apple with his empathetic
design philosophy, leading to worldwide success. In contrast, business figures such as Vijay
Mallya and Subrata Roy, despite high IQ, faced setbacks due to deficient EQ.
● Character: IQ helps in ethical analysis but EQ holds greater ethical significance for character
development as it cultivates empathy, integrity, and moral values. It helps individuals in handling
conflicts, showing empathy, and demonstrating integrity.
○ For example, Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent conflict resolution during India’s struggle for
independence showcased exceptional emotional intelligence.
● Happiness: Someone with high EQ can recover from tough times, whereas a high IQ alone might not
offer the same emotional strength. IQ helps analyze concepts, but true happiness comes from emotional
aspects like relationships, gratitude, resilience, and self-awareness.
○ For instance, Dalai Lama’s enduring joy, rooted in compassion and emotional balance shows
the key to true and lasting happiness.
● Lifelong Achievements: While IQ may contribute to initial achievements, EQ is critical for sustaining
long-term success. Life long achievements in life depends on being persistent, adaptable, and learning
from mistakes. EQ helps develop these traits by teaching us to see challenges as chances to improve
and grow.
○ For instance, Thomas Edison, while inventing the light bulb, exemplified his resilience when he
famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
Both IQ and EQ play essential roles in a successful, fulfilling life. While IQ gives us tools, EQ provides the meaning,
forming the foundation for relationships, ethical choices, and resilience. Balancing these intelligences is key to
leading a wise, impactful life.

Q.3) What does each of the following quotations mean to you?

a) “The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer” -Mahatma
Gandhi.

Answer: Gandhi's quote emphasizes the profound impact of genuine acts of kindness and altruism in contrast to
superficial or ritualistic expressions of faith. It underscores the significance of compassion and practical goodwill in
making a positive difference in the world.

Relevance to Public Service:

● Compassion and Empathy: Public servants, inspired by this quote, can cultivate compassion and empathy in
their interactions with the public. These qualities enable them to better understand and address the needs of
the citizens, making governance more people-centric.
● Selflessness in Decision-Making: Gandhi's message encourages public servants to prioritize selfless service.
When faced with ethical dilemmas or policy choices, a commitment to kindness and goodwill can guide decision-
making that benefits the public interest over personal or political gain.

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Real-Life Examples:
● Oxygen Langars during the Second Wave of COVID-19: The quote's relevance was evident during the COVID-19
pandemic, as various organizations and individuals organized "Oxygen Langars" in Gurudwaras, providing free
oxygen cylinders and assistance to those in need. This act of kindness showcased the power of selfless service
during a crisis.
● Jonas Salk and the Polio Vaccine: Jonas Salk's decision not to patent the polio vaccine exemplifies Gandhi's
message. His selfless contribution helped millions of children globally and demonstrated the transformative
potential of goodwill and altruism.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote serves as a guiding principle for public servants, promoting kindness, empathy, and selflessness
in their roles. It underscores the importance of focusing on the well-being of the public and making governance more
ethical and people-oriented.

b) “Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.”-Dalai Lama

Answer: The quote by the Dalai Lama underscores the significance of assessing the true worth of our achievements,
highlighting the need for a comprehensive evaluation of success. Success is not a free commodity; it comes at a cost,
often involving profound sacrifices and unwavering dedication over a prolonged period.

Subjectivity in Defining Success: Success is a deeply subjective concept, its definition varying from person to person.
Furthermore, an individual's perception of success can evolve through different life stages and phases. The Dalai Lama's
quote reminds us that success should not be solely measured by the end results but also by the journey undertaken to
attain it.

Sacrifice as a Measure of Success: The value of success is intertwined with the personal sacrifices and efforts made. It
encompasses delayed gratification, consistent dedication of time and energy, and the transcendence of personal
limitations. An exemplary instance of this principle is the extraordinary commitment of athletes like Michael Phelps, who
adhered to a rigorous training regime from a young age, demonstrating an unparalleled level of sacrifice in the pursuit
of success.

Prioritizing What Truly Matters: True success lies in focusing on what truly matters while relinquishing less important
pursuits. The Phogat sisters, Gita and Babita, exemplify this principle, dedicating their childhoods to fulfilling their father's
dream of winning wrestling gold medals for India. Similarly, IIT and NEET aspirants sacrifice personal desires to uplift
their families from poverty, illustrating the profound value of such accomplishments.

The Ethical Dimension of Success: Success should also be evaluated based on ethical considerations. In the quest for
success, individuals often confront the allure of shortcuts, cheating, and corrupt practices. Resisting these temptations
in favor of moral integrity is, in itself, a remarkable success. A trader adhering to fair trade practices, even when unethical
means promise quicker growth, is an embodiment of such ethical success.

Self-Growth as a Measure of Success: Success extends to personal growth and the conquest of one's internal battles. It
can manifest in the form of shedding a kilogram of weight, overcoming addiction, or quitting harmful habits. The
sacrifices made in terms of relinquishing negative influences are an integral part of this type of success.

A Holistic Perspective: Real success necessitates the abandonment of negative attributes such as greed and anger. It
calls for fairness, courage, and a commitment to combat injustice. Evaluating success through an ethical and holistic lens,
rather than solely through materialistic gains, is essential. Such an approach fosters success that not only fulfills the
individual but also benefits society and the world at large, aligning with the Dalai Lama's wisdom.

This holistic understanding of success encourages us to view it as a multifaceted concept, recognizing that genuine
success is not just a personal conquest but a contribution to the greater good. It beckons us to appreciate the intricate
blend of dedication, sacrifice, ethical conduct, and personal growth that ultimately defines the value of our
achievements.

c) “To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Once she is on the move, the family moves, the
village moves, the nation moves” -JL Nehru.

Answer: The above quote emphasises the significance of women empowerment in the holistic progress of society at
various levels. This awakening includes the provision of autonomy, rights, and opportunities, enabling women to actively
participate in various domains. This allows them to stand as a fundamental catalyst for societal progress.

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To awaken people, women must be awakened because:
● Catalysts of Change: Empowered and educated women can foster a culture of critical thinking by creating mass
awareness and leading to societal change through awareness and enlightenment. Women leaders like
Sudhamurti or Indra Nooyi has brought a great deal of change towards societal awareness.
● Political Contribution: Increased female political engagement can lead to balanced and inclusive governance.
New Zealand’s PM Jacinda Ardern leadership during Covid 19 crisis or Angela Merkel in Germany have inspired
and influenced policies on gender equality and social welfare.
● Social Entrepreneurs: Women awakening are crucial for social capital development and broader societal
transformation. Women-led social enterprises, such as the SEWA founded by Ela Bhatt, have improved women’s
livelihoods along with broader societal improvement.

Role of women in building family, village and nation

Family:
● Value Transmission: Women’s influence fosters moral values like empathy and compassion, leading to
harmonious family dynamics and the development of responsible, caring individuals. For instance, a mother’s
considerate behavior toward the household maid helps instill the value of compassion in a child.
● Education Priority: When women are educated, they focus on their children's schooling, leading to higher
literacy rates and improved living standards. An educated mother might set aside money for quality education.
● Health and Care Advocates: Women, often primary caregivers, advocate for healthcare and nutrition, benefiting
the whole family's well-being. They ensure proper nutrition, especially in a child's first 1,000 days, setting the
foundation for a healthy future.

Village:
● Addressing Critical Issues: Empowered women become powerful advocates of against harmful and orthodox
practices like infanticide, ghoonghat, dowry etc. Sushma Bhadu, Sarpanch in a village of Haryana fought against
veiling practice, ensured girls’ education and established training centre in her village.
● Better Healthcare and Awareness: Improved mobility of women leads to better healthcare facilities and
awareness programs in villages. They actively participate in health initiatives, spreading knowledge and
improving the overall well-being of their communities. Participation of ASHA workers at village level resulted in
improvement in primary healthcare infrastructure at the lowest level.
● Economic Growth: Active women stimulate local economies through entrepreneurial activities, contributing to
the overall development of their communities. Their business ventures create jobs and opportunities, leading to
enhanced economic prosperity. Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad is a classic example that boosted local,
regional and national economic growth with its multi million dollar adventure.

Nation:
● Economic Advancement: Women's active participation in the workforce elevates national economic growth and
stability. They contribute significantly through increased productivity and innovation. An IMF study suggests that
India’s GDP could increase by $770 billion by 2025 with gender equality measures in place.
● Political Representation and Policies: Mobilized women in politics advocate for policies that promote gender
equality, social justice, and economic development. Leaders like Indira Gandhi exemplify this, working towards
a more equitable and prosperous nation.
● Inspiration and Determination: Inspirational figures like Arunima Sinha, the first female amputee to conquer
Mount Everest, serve as powerful symbols of determination and empowerment. Their achievements inspire
others and contribute to a culture of empowerment and progress.
Mahatma Gandhi correct;y said,“If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you
educate a nation”. By recognizing and nurturing the potential of women in various spheres, we not only awaken societies
but also pave the way for a more equitable, compassionate, and prosperous nation.

Q.4) a) Apart from intellectual competency and moral qualities, empathy and compassion are some of the other vital
attributes that facilitate the civil servants to be more competent in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical
decisions. Explain with suitable illustrations.

Answer: Qualities like empathy and compassion that significantly contribute to the overall competency of civil servants.
They play distinct yet interconnected roles in ensuring that civil servants are capable of fulfilling their roles effectively
and ethically.

Ways in which Intellectual competence and Moral qualities help in tackling critical issues:
Intellectual Competence

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Analytical Skills: Intellectual competency involves the ability to analyze complex problems, gather relevant information,
and make informed decisions. Civil servants need strong analytical skills to assess policy options, identify issues, and
develop effective solutions. Eg: A civil servant faced with a budget deficit uses financial analysis and economic modeling
to propose cost-saving measures without compromising essential services.

Problem-Solving: Civil servants with intellectual competency are able to approach complex issues methodically. They are
able to weigh different options, consider potential outcomes, and decide on the best course of action to effectively
handle problems. A real-life example would be "People's road" Armstrong Pame, who demonstrated exemplary problem-
solving skills in constructing a road in a remote Indian village.

Policy Development: Civil servants frequently contribute to the creation of policies. In order to make sure that policies
are efficient, workable, and in the public interest, intellectual competency aids decision-makers in investigating and
evaluating alternative policy options. An example could be the development of a Moral Code of Conduct for regulating
elections, ensuring ethical policy development.

Moral Qualities
Ethical Conduct: Integrity, honesty, and transparency are fundamental moral traits for public servants. They ensure that
civil servants behave in a way that upholds public confidence. For example, Satyendra Dubey, an IES (Indian Engineering
Services) officer, became renowned for his unwavering commitment to ethical values. He is best known for his
courageous act of exposing corruption in the construction of the Golden Quadrilateral project, one of India's most
ambitious infrastructure initiatives. Despite knowing the risks to his own safety, Dubey blew the whistle on corrupt
practices that compromised the project's quality and efficiency.

In doing so, he demonstrated exceptional integrity and a strong sense of duty to the public. His actions not only upheld
moral values but also exposed the urgent need for transparency and accountability in public projects. Tragically, his
relentless pursuit of honesty led to tragic consequences, as he was later assassinated. Satyendra Dubey's story stands as
a testament to the critical role of ethical conduct in the civil service, even in the face of personal peril.

Accountability: The public holds civil servants responsible for their deeds and decisions. Accountability ensures that,
even in difficult circumstances, government employees accept responsibility for their decisions and deeds. Eg: A
government official promptly discloses financial conflicts of interest, demonstrating transparency and setting an example
for others in the organization.

Fairness and Impartiality: Moral virtues that encourage the equitable treatment of all citizens, such as fairness and
impartiality, are important. These traits in civil servants guarantee equitable distribution of public goods and services.

Significance of Empathy and Compassion for civil in Servant in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical decisions

Empathy and compassion are vital qualities that enhance a civil servant's capacity to address significant issues and make
ethical decisions, fostering understanding, moral integrity, and cooperation with the public.

b) Write short notes on the following in 30 words each:

i. Empathy: Empathy is the capacity to understand and share the feelings of another person. It involves recognizing
and resonating with the emotional experiences of others, demonstrating genuine concern for their well-being.
To enhance empathy, individuals can actively listen and provide emotional support. For instance, when dealing
with a community affected by a natural disaster, an administrator's empathetic approach can provide emotional
support to the victims and lead to more efficient relief efforts, ultimately benefiting the community and fostering
a sense of solidarity.
ii. Dedication to Public Service: Dedication represents the commitment of individuals to remain devoted and loyal
to a specific duty, purpose, thought, or action. In the context of organizations, dedicated employees actively
strive to accomplish the goals set by the organization. Dedication enables a person to persevere even when their
motivation is low, demonstrating their capacity to persist in their actions.
iii. Tolerance: It has been deeply ingrained in Indian Cultural Ethos. Tolerance refers to a fair, objective, and
permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race,
religion, nationality, etc., differ from one’s own. In simple words, it is the act or capacity of enduring the diversity
of views and practices in your environment.
iv. Compassion: Understanding or empathizing with another person's suffering is known as compassion. The
common result of compassion is "an active desire to alleviate others' suffering," which is more complex than
simple empathy. Thai quality holds great significance for civil servants who are agents of change and compassion
motivates them to work for the welfare of people.
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 Attribute Explanation Illustration

Empathy allows civil

Improved A civil servant in urban planning
servants to understand
Understanding of considers vulnerable populations' needs
citizens' challenges,
Public Needs when designing infrastructure.
concerns, and aspirations.

Compassionate
During a public health crisis, a civil
Effective communication fosters
servant communicates clear and
Communication transparency and trust with
reassuring health guidelines.
the public.

Empathy helps consider the An empathetic civil servant accounts for

Informed broader impact of decisions, the potential impact on low-income
Decision-Making especially on marginalized families when formulating economic
groups. policies.

Compassion drives policies

A civil servant works on initiatives to
Building Social that promote social
integrate refugees, fostering social
Cohesion cohesion and reduce
harmony and reducing isolation.
inequalities.

Empathy and compassion After a natural disaster, a

Crisis are crucial in effectively compassionate civil servant coordinates
Management responding to crisis relief efforts with care for vulnerable
situations. populations.

A compassionate police officer builds

Demonstrating empathy and
Public Trust & trust through community engagement,
compassion earns public
Cooperation helping to prevent crime and resolve
trust and cooperation.
issues amicably.

Compassion enables An empathetic civil servant in a conflict-

Conflict mediation of conflicts with prone region brings different groups
Resolution sensitivity, seeking win-win together for dialogue and negotiation,
solutions. leading to peaceful resolutions.

v. Challenges of digitalisation: Technology has become part of our day to day life and so does digitalisation from doing
online payments to uploading documents etc. The ease which has been imparted by digitalisation has also brought
some challenges with it like issues of breach of privacy, cybercrimes, non-conventional warfare practices,
infrastructural bottlenecks etc. Such challenges need to be addressed while we enter the age of the 4th Industrial
Revolution.

Q.5) a) Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the
matrix.

Answer: Ethics can be defined as a set of “moral principles that govern a person’s behaviour.” Assessing the performance
of civil servants requires a comprehensive evaluation that goes beyond conventional metrics. Ethical traits provide
valuable insights into the conduct and integrity of civil servants.

Ethical trait Justification for inclusion

Integrity Integrity refers to the consistency between a person’s values, beliefs, and actions. Being honest and
upright is crucial in fighting corruption. A leader's integrity sets a good example and ensures wise
use of public resources.
For example: Erode Collector R. Ananda kumar admitted his daughter in the government school.
Ashok khemka is known for his integrity as he never compromised with honesty and dignity of his
service despite being transferred more than 50 times in his career.

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 Accountability It is the willingness to take responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, and to be held answerable
by others for their impact. This will promote transparent and people-centered governance . It will
help in earning public trust, discouraging wrongdoing, and holds civil servants accountable for their
actions
For example: In 2018, IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri Dasari took a tough stand against illegal mining in
Karnataka, despite facing political pressure to turn a blind eye.

Innovation To solve new-emerging problems, especially in the diverse society and limitation of resources. It
helps in resolving the conflict, ethical dilemma and crisis of conscience.
For example: People’s road of Armstrong [Link] singh Solanki – PM’s award (Best
innovation) – started a unique solar lamp project that turned women from most backward district
to green entrepreneurs.

Enabling People’s It enhances the credibility of the government, increasing accountability in governance and fulfilling
participation the social contract.
For example: Saurabh Kumar, Dantewada DM started ‘Lunch with Collector’ program to interact with
tribal students. Prashant Nair is famously called ‘Collector bro’ to remove the psychological barrier
to approach him.

Objectivity It is the ability to make decisions based on facts and evidence, rather than personal biases or
emotions. Bring objective stops wrongful use of public resources and unfair favoritism. A fair civil
servant treats everyone equally, without bias.
For example: Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, is known for his data-
driven approach to policy making.

These qualities help civil servants fulfill their duties, even in tough situations. A good training program should be there
for civil servants to focus on ethics, rules, and real-life scenarios. Civil servants by developing these traits gain public trust,
making them effective stewards of public interest, ensuring fair and responsible governance for the community's well-
being.

b) Attitude is an important component that goes as input in the development of human being. How to build a suitable
attitude needed for a public servant?

Answer: Attitude is a predisposition expressed by evaluating a particular entity with some degree of favour or disfavor.
Attitude is a crucial component in the development of any individual, especially for public servants who serve as
representatives of the government and are responsible for serving the public.
As per Daniel Katz, attitude has an important role in development of human being:
● Knowledge: The knowledge function represents the ability of attitudes to organize information about attitude
objects. Attitudes provide meaning (knowledge) for life. It can help us organize and structure our experience.
● Utility: The utilitarian function exists in attitudes that maximize rewards and minimize punishments obtained
from attitude objects. If a person holds and/or expresses socially acceptable attitudes, other people will reward
them with approval and social acceptance. Attitudes relate with being a part of a social group and the adaptive
functions help us fit in with a social group. People seek out others who share their attitudes, and develop similar
attitudes to those they like.
● Ego-defense: The ego-defensive function refers to holding attitudes that protect our self-esteem or that justify
actions that make us feel guilty. Attitudes help to develop our self esteem and to explain why we’ve done
something that could be seen as undesirable.
● Value-expression: Attitudes may serve a value-expressive function, such that an attitude may express an
individual’s self-concept and central values. Attitudes help us to relate to ourselves and to others, presenting a
fairly unified image which help to establish our identity for both ourselves and for others. The attitudes we
express help us communicate who we are.

Ways to build a suitable attitude needed for a public servant

● Practicing compassion: as a public servant needs to work for the welfare of the masses, compassion can help
build a suitable attitude. It will help in successfully fulfilling the duties of a civil servants while meeting people of
diverse and opposing viewpoints.
● Role Modeling: Prominent leaders and senior public servants can be the guiding light for civil servants. Public
servants often find themselves in a position of ethical dilemmas. In such cases, life examples from great leaders,
such as Gandhi, Sardar Patel, Nehru etc., can help in building a positive attitude.
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 ● Training and Development Programs: Regular training for public servants, covering ethics, communication, and
conflict resolution, is crucial for fostering the right skills and attitudes for their roles. These programs empower
them to serve effectively and ethically.
● Compliance: There is a need for a systemic mechanism for compliance to inculcate a suitable attitude. It includes
codes of conduct and ethics, training, monitoring and evaluation, etc.
● Reward and Reprimand approach: Recognizing and rewarding public servants who exhibit the right attitudes
and behaviors can reinforce positive attitudes and behaviors. It can encourage other public servants to do the
same.
Public servants, tasked with governing, must cultivate a positive attitude to serve effectively. In India's diverse landscape,
civil servants need not only tolerance but also leadership and persuasion skills to maintain peace and order.

Q.6) Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while
resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with suitable example.

Answer: Effective resolution of ethical dilemmas by public officials requires not only profound domain knowledge but
also a high degree of innovativeness and creativity. This holistic approach is pivotal in addressing complex ethical
challenges and ensuring that the decisions made contribute positively to society.

Domain Knowledge:
Domain knowledge is the bedrock of ethical decision-making, as it offers a deep understanding of the specific context
and intricacies inherent to a particular field or profession. This knowledge empowers public officials with the insights
necessary to unravel complex ethical quandaries. Furthermore, it facilitates impartiality, informed decision-making, and
the formulation of sound policies.
Example:
Consider a scenario in urban planning where a perplexing ethical dilemma arises: striking a balance between economic
development and environmental preservation. Domain expertise equips urban planners with knowledge of
environmental laws, conservation regulations, and the potential ecological impact of industrial activities. In the absence
of such knowledge, officials may find themselves ill-equipped to make informed and ethically sound decisions. Domain
knowledge thus provides the foundation upon which ethical resolutions can be constructed.

Innovativeness and Creativity:

In addition to domain knowledge, innovativeness and creativity are indispensable traits for public servants when
confronted with ethical dilemmas. They play a pivotal role in finding novel, adaptive, and ethical solutions.

Balancing Competing Interests:

Ethical dilemmas often entail conflicting values, interests, and diverse stakeholder perspectives. Creative thinking
empowers civil servants to identify compromises and middle-ground solutions that can accommodate these varying
concerns. This flexibility is invaluable when navigating the complex web of competing interests.

Overcoming Resource Constraints:

In certain instances, ethical solutions may necessitate resourcefulness, especially when faced with limited resources.
Creativity enables civil servants to devise cost-effective and efficient strategies to address ethical concerns. It encourages
them to explore innovative approaches to deliver ethical outcomes within resource constraints.

Adapting to Changing Contexts:

The dynamics of society and its ethical norms are ever-evolving. Public officials must exhibit creativity in adapting to
these changes, continually seeking fresh approaches to uphold ethical principles in a dynamic environment. This
adaptability ensures that ethical decisions remain relevant and beneficial to the evolving needs of society.
Example:
In the previously mentioned urban planning ethical dilemma, creativity and innovation could lead planners to propose
mixed-use developments that integrate green rooftops and vertical gardens. This approach not only provides affordable
housing but also promotes sustainability and maintains green spaces. Creative solutions, such as incorporating green
technology, transform a challenging ethical dilemma into an opportunity for positive change.

In essence, domain knowledge, innovativeness, and creativity are indispensable for public officials when addressing
ethical dilemmas. Domain knowledge forms the foundational framework of understanding, while innovativeness and
creativity act as dynamic tools for constructing ethically sound and adaptable solutions. Together, these attributes
empower civil servants to navigate the intricate landscape of ethical decision-making in a constantly evolving world.

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b. Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered as indispensable qualities to make a successful civil servant?
Discuss with illustrations.

Answer: Impartiality is a principle of justice holding that decisions should be based on objective criteria, rather than on
the basis of bias and prejudice. Impartiality thus means absence of prejudice and bias.
The principle of non-partisanship is based on politics-administration dichotomy i.e. politics and administration are two
different things and should remain apart from each other. It is the process of not being involved in any political party
even if the person has strong faith in any political thought.
Impartiality and non-partisanship are generally considered to be indispensable qualities for a successful civil servant, as
they are essential for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the civil service.
Non-partisanship:
● It helps the civil servant to maintain the queue i.e. treating people on first come, first serve basis. For example,
all people were treated alike during the demonetisation drive. It prevents injustice to those who belong to the
lower rung of the society.
● It will ensure the following of constitutional morality by the civil servant. It will help a civil servant to take decision
without any fear/favour to any political party. For instance, during elections, non-partisanship will aid a DM/DC
in discharging the duties of a RO effectively.
● It ensures a professional relationship between the elected representative and the civil servants. For instance,
non-partisanship, will enhance/maintain the credibility of a chief secretary, irrespective of the party in power.

Impartiality:
● Assists a civil servant in making decisions based on facts and not personal opinions or preconceived notions. For
instance, impartiality will help the Chairman of the Finance commission, in recommending resources on
objective criteria, without a bias to his/her own home state.
● It helps create a friendly and productive connection between the civil servant and the community or citizens.
For instance, an impartial SDM/DSP will command respect of the people, and thus will gain their cooperation in
various conflict management situations.
● It helps build an equal attitude towards everything and everyone. It promotes the public confidence in the non-
political character of civil services. For instance, impartiality will aid a DM/DC in implementing benefits under
NFSA without a bias of caste or religion. Thus, it also increases public trust on working of civil servants.
It is the corrosion of these values which has led to corruption, injustice and absence of public service which is central to
any administrative system. Impartiality and non-partisanship can be demonstrated in the civil service by making objective
and unbiased decisions, upholding laws and regulations without favoritism or discrimination and serving the public
interest without being swayed by personal or political agendas.

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