UPSC CSE MAINS 2023 Ethics Key Points - Section A

 What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency in the context of corporate governance in India? Illustrate with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

Moral Integrity - Individual's adherence to a set of ethical principles, values, and moral standards; it involves consistently doing what is right and just, regardless of external pressures or temptations.

Moral Integrity in Corporate Governance

·         Adherence to ethical principles, values, and moral standards in all business activities

·         Corporate leaders must be honest and transparent in their dealings.

·         They should provide accurate and complete information to shareholders, regulators, and other stakeholders.

Professional Efficiency - Professional efficiency pertains to an individual's ability to perform tasks, fulfill responsibilities, and achieve goals effectively and competently within a professional or work-related context. Possessing the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise required for a particular job or role.

Professional Efficiency in Corporate Governance:

·         Competence and effectiveness of corporate leaders and their ability to make sound decisions for the benefit of the organization and its stakeholders

·         Competent leaders possess the skills and knowledge necessary to run the business effectively.

·         They understand the industry, financial management, and strategic planning.

 

International aid is an accepted form of helping resource-challenged nations. Comment on ethics in contemporary international aid. Support your answer with suitable examples.

Ethical considerations in contemporary international aid

·         Respect the sovereignty and autonomy of the recipient country and its people.

·         Designed and implemented to maximize its positive impact on the well-being of the recipient population.

·         Donors and aid organizations should be transparent about how aid funds are used, and there should be mechanisms for accountability.

·         Designed with a focus on long-term sustainability rather than short-term relief.

·         Culturally sensitive and respect the local customs, values, and traditions of the recipient community.

·         Aim to empower recipients rather than create dependency.

·         Consider the environmental impact of development projects and aim for sustainability.

·         Address gender disparities and ensure that marginalized groups are included and empowered.

 

“Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society?

·         Incorporate ethics and values-based education in schools and universities. Teach students about the consequences of corruption and the importance of honesty and integrity.

·         Conduct public awareness campaigns that highlight the harmful effects of corruption on society and emphasize the benefits of ethical behavior.

·         Enforce strict anti-corruption laws and regulations that deter corrupt practices and hold wrongdoers accountable.

·         Implement robust whistleblower protection laws to encourage individuals to report corruption without fear of retaliation.

·         Promote transparency in government operations, budgets, and procurement processes. Make information accessible to the public.

·         Implement e-governance solutions to reduce the need for face-to-face interactions with government officials, minimizing opportunities for corruption.

·         Promote citizen participation in decision-making processes to ensure accountability.

·         Create incentives for individuals and organizations to engage in ethical behavior, such as tax incentives, awards, or recognition.

 

In the context of work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion and undue influence’ with suitable examples.

Coercion

·         Involves using force, threats, or intimidation to make someone do something against their will.

·         Example: A supervisor threatening to fire an employee if they don't work overtime, even when it's not contractually required.

Undue Influence

·         Refers to exerting unfair or improper pressure to influence someone's decision without their full consent.

·         Example: A coworker offering promotions or favors in exchange for confidential information, exploiting a colleague's vulnerability.

 

Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of the quotations convey to you is the present test?

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

·         Gandhi emphasizes that practical acts of kindness hold greater power and significance than religious rituals done without genuine compassion.

·         It suggests that tangible help and empathy are more impactful than empty gestures.

·         Kindness fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of community, which are crucial for social cohesion.

·         Simple acts of kindness can diffuse tensions and conflicts more effectively than formal rituals or displays of authority.

·         In public service, prioritizing acts of kindness can lead to better service delivery, enhanced public trust, and improved community relationships.

·         For example, a police officer showing understanding and empathy while addressing a community's concerns can be more effective in maintaining order than mere authority.

 

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”.- Jawaharlal Nehru

·         Nehru highlights the pivotal role of women in driving societal and national progress. When women are empowered, it positively impacts families, communities, and the entire nation.

·         Recognizes the importance of gender equality and the need to empower women to achieve social and economic development.

·         Acknowledges that the well-being and progress of families are closely tied to the status and participation of women.

·         In public service, recognizing the significance of women's empowerment can lead to policies and programs that address gender disparities and promote inclusivity. For instance, initiatives focused on women's health, education, and economic opportunities can have far-reaching social benefits.

“Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle- Swami Vivekananda

·         Vivekananda underscores the consequences of hatred and the transformative power of love. Hatred can harm the individual harboring it, while love can bring about positive change and inner peace.

·         It encourages individuals to cultivate emotions like love, forgiveness, and understanding, contributing to peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution.

·         Hatred can lead to stress, resentment, and personal suffering, while love and forgiveness promote emotional well-being.

·         In public service, embracing these values can lead to fair and just decision-making, improved community relations, and more effective conflict resolution. For example, government leaders who promote reconciliation and unity rather than division can lead to a more stable and harmonious society.

 

“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 the view? Give reasons in support of your answer.

·         EQ includes empathy, communication, and interpersonal skills, which are vital in building relationships and collaborations, especially in public service.

·         Effective leadership in public service often requires emotional intelligence to inspire and motivate teams.

·         EQ aids in resolving conflicts, crucial in managing disputes and controversies in public service.

·         EQ helps individuals adapt to change, a critical skill in rapidly evolving public service environments.

·         High EQ fosters mental well-being, reducing stress and promoting resilience, important for maintaining ethical conduct in public service.

 

Differentiate ‘moral intuition” from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples.

Moral Intuition:

·         Involves immediate, instinctive moral judgments without extensive analysis.

·         Example: Feeling a strong sense of wrong when witnessing a helpless person being bullied.

·         It can guide quick decision-making in critical situations but may lack depth and reasoning.

Moral Reasoning:

·         Involves a deliberate, cognitive process where individuals use logic, ethical principles, and reflection to make moral judgments.

·         Example: Deliberating whether a company's cost-cutting measures that lead to layoffs are morally justifiable.

·         Provides a systematic, well-justified approach to ethical dilemmas in public service, helping ensure decisions align with ethical principles and policies.

Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision making. Discuss

·         Conscience - Represents an individual's internal moral compass, influenced by personal values, principles, and beliefs.

·         Laws, Rules, and Regulations - External guidelines established by society, organizations, or governments to regulate behavior.

·         Conscience can provide a more immediate sense of right and wrong, but its reliability depends on an individual's moral development and subjective values.

·         Laws and regulations provide a standardized ethical framework but may not always encompass all moral considerations.

·         In public service, a balance is essential: Conscience should guide adherence to laws, rules, and regulations, ensuring ethical decision-making that aligns with broader societal values and legal requirements.

·         Ethical public servants should be prepared to challenge laws or regulations that contradict their deeply held moral convictions (through the legal channels), but this should be done thoughtfully and responsibly, considering potential consequences and alternatives.

 

Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development. Discuss

·         Probity, which refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, is vital for building trust among citizens and stakeholders in governance.

·         When the government and public officials demonstrate probity, people have confidence in the system, which fosters social cohesion and encourages investment and economic growth.

·         Probity acts as a safeguard against corruption and unethical behavior within the government and public institutions. Transparent, honest, and accountable governance reduces the scope for corrupt practices that divert resources away from socio-economic development.

·         In a system marked by probity, resources are allocated efficiently and judiciously, ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of citizens. This leads to better infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other services that contribute to socio-economic development.

·         Countries known for probity in governance are often more attractive to foreign and domestic investors. Investors are more likely to commit capital where they perceive a low risk of corruption and a high likelihood of their investments being protected and generating returns.

·         It leads to stable institutions, reduced conflicts, and an environment conducive to sustainable development.

What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

Oneness of God

·         Guru Nanak emphasized monotheism and the belief in one universal God.

·         It promotes religious tolerance and understanding, fostering harmony in a diverse world.

Equality and Social Justice:

·         Guru Nanak advocated for equality among all humans, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender.

·         These teachings inspire contemporary efforts for social justice, gender equality, and inclusion.

Community Service:

·         Guru Nanak stressed the importance of selfless service to humanity.

·         It encourages volunteerism and philanthropy, addressing contemporary social challenges.

Rejecting Rituals and Formalities:

·         Guru Nanak discouraged empty rituals and emphasized a direct, personal connection with God.

·         It encourages spiritual introspection and a focus on inner values over external practices.

Interfaith Dialogue:

·         Guru Nanak engaged in dialogue with followers of different faiths.

·         It promotes interfaith harmony and understanding in a pluralistic world.

 

Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

·         Social capital refers to the networks, relationships, and trust that exist within a society or community. It encompasses social cohesion, cooperation, and shared norms and values.

·         High social capital leads to greater trust among citizens and between citizens and government officials, facilitating cooperation and compliance with laws and policies.

·         Social capital encourages individuals and communities to hold public officials accountable for their actions, reducing corruption and promoting transparency.

·         It promotes inclusivity and participation in decision-making processes, ensuring that diverse voices are heard in governance.

·         Communities with strong social capital are better equipped to resolve conflicts peacefully and collaboratively, reducing instability.

·         In a community with high social capital, residents may work together to maintain shared public spaces, reducing the burden on local government resources.

·         Trust and cooperation among different ethnic or religious groups can lead to more inclusive policies and greater social harmony.

 

UPSC CSE MAINS 2023 Ethics Question Paper

                                

                                           Section A

Q1 (a): What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency in the context of corporate governance in India? Illustrate with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

(b)  International aid is an accepted form of helping resource-challenged nations. Comment on ethics in contemporary international aid. Support your answer with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

Q2 (a): “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society? (Answer in 150 words).

(b) In the context of work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion and undue influence’ with suitable examples.

Q3: Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context?

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

(b) 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”.- Jawaharlal Nehru

(c) “Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle- Swami Vivekananda

Q4 (a): “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 the view? Give reasons in support of your answer.

(b): Differentiate ‘moral intuition” from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples.

Q5 (a): Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision making. Discuss

(b) Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development. Discuss

Q6 (a): What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

 (b) Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

 

 

                                                        Section B

Q7.  You are working as an executive in a nationalised bank for several years. One day one of your close colleagues tells you that her father is suffering from heart disease and needs surgery to service. She also tells you that she has no insurance and the operation will cost about Rs 10 lakh. You are also aware of the fact that her husband and that she is from a lower middle class family. You are empathetic about her situation. However, apart from expressing your sympathy, you do not have the resources to fund her.

A few weeks later, you ask her about the well-being of her father and she informs you about his successful surgery and that he is recovering. She then confides in you that the bank manager was kind enough to facilitate the release of 10 lakhs from a dormant account of someone to pay for the operation with a promise that it should be confidential and be repaid at the earliest. She has already started paying it back and will continue to do so until it is all returned.

(a) What are the ethical issues involved?

(b) Evaluate the behavior of the bank manager from an ethical point of view.

(c) How would you react to the situation?

 

Q8. A landslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximately 60 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of property and life. You, as District Magistrate of that area, have rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue operations.

A man came running to you with a request for urgent medical help for his pregnant wife who is in labour and in loosing blood. You directed your medal team to examine his wife. They return and convey to you that this woman needs blood transfusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come to know that a few blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your team have already volunteered to donate blood.

Being a physician who has graduated from AIIMS, you know that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a recognized blood bank. Your team members are divided on this issue; some favour transfusing, while some others oppose it. The doctors in the team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not penalised for transfusion. Now you are a dilemma. Your professional training emphasizes on prioritising service to humanity and saving lives of individuals.

(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

(b) Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area.

 

Q9.  At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office. Her husband, Vikram, is an executive in an MNC and frequently out of town in connection with his work. Their two children aged 5 and 3 are looked after by their domestic helper. At 9:30 pm her superior, Mr. Suresh calls her and asks her to prepare a detailed note on an important matter to be discussed in a meeting in the Ministry. She realises that she will have to work on Sunday to finish the additional task given by her superior.

She reflects on how she had asked forward to the posting and had worked long hours for months to achieve it, he had kept the welfare of people uppermost in discharging her duties. She feels that she has not done enough Justice to her family and she has not fulfilled her duties in discharging essential social obligations. Even as recently as last month she had to leave her sick child in the nanny’s care as she had to work in the office. Now, she feels that she must draw a line, beyond which her personal life should take precedence over her professional responsibilities. She thinks that there should be reasonable limits to the work ethics such as punctuality, hard work, dedication to duty and selfless service.

(a) Discuss the ethical issue involved in this case.

(b) Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by the Government of India with respect to providing a healthy, safe and equitable working environment for women.

(c) Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions would you make to mitigate such working conditions?

 

Q10. Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three years. His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge affability and uprightness.

The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corporation and the high-handedness of the Chairman in financial matters.

A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Opposition Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to be demanding bribe for placing a huge order for the supply of QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting clearing of pending bills of QMR tyres.

Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof he has with him. The members inform him that the Chairman refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn recognition and public support if he himself exposes the Chairman. Further, he tells Vinod that once his party comes to power, Vinod’s professional growth would be assured.

Vinod is aware that he may be penalised if he exposes the Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place. He knows that Opposition Party stands a better chance of coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also realises that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own political gains.

(a) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod.

(b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.

Q11. You have just been appointed as Additional Director General of Central Public Works Department. The Chief Architect of your division, who is to retire in six months, is passionately working on a very important project, the successful completion of which would earn him a lasting reputation for the rest of his life.

A new lady architect, Seema, trained at Manchester School of Architecture, UK joined as Senior Architect in your division. During the briefing about the project, Seema made some suggestions which would not only add value to the project, but would also reduce completion time. This has made the Chief Architect insecure and he is constantly worried that all the credit will go to her. Subsequently, he adopted a passive and aggressive behaviour towards her and has become disrespectful to her. Seema felt it embarrassing as the Chief Architect left no chance of humiliating her. He would very often correct her in front of other colleagues and raise his voice while speaking to her. This continuous harassment has resulted in her losing confidence and self-esteem. She felt perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. She appeared to be in awe of him since he has had a long tenure in the office and has vast experience in the area of her work.

You are aware of her outstanding academic credentials and career in her previous organizations. However, you fear that this harassment may result in compromising her much needed contribution in this important project and may adversely impact her emotional well-being. You have also come to know from her peers that she is contemplating tendering her resignation.

(a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?

 (b) What are the options available to you in order to complete the project as well as to retain Seema in the organization?

(c) What would be your response to Seema’s predicament? What measures would you institute to prevent such occurrence from happening in your organization?

Q12. You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government. One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal’s office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son’s changed behavior. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest.

After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague’s son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children in the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son’s predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.

(a) Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media.

(b) Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family.

Essay Paper- UPSC 2023 - Questions

 

Section A

1.      Thinking is like a game, it does not begin until there is an opposite team.

2.      Visionary decision making happens at an intersection of intuition and logic.

3.      Not all who wander are lost.

4.      Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.

 

Section B

5.      Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines.

6.      Mathematics is the music of reason.

7.      A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.

8.      Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school.

Essay Paper- UPSC 2023 Section B Meaning and Thinking Lines

Section B

1.      Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines.

2.      Mathematics is the music of reason.

3.      A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.

4.      Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school.

 

Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines.

Meaning

·         This statement means that both girls and boys face harmful societal pressures, but they experience them differently. Girls often encounter strict rules and limitations that restrict their choices and actions, while boys often face high expectations and demands that they must fulfill. Both of these situations are harmful and can have negative effects on individuals.

Thinking Lines

·         Girls are weighed down by restrictions – what and why?

·         Boys are weighed down by demands – what and why?

·         What are the consequences of the above two disciplines?

·         What are the solutions to overcome these issues?

Mathematics is the music of reason.

* Beyond my knowledge *

A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.

Meaning

·         When a society is just, it ensures that its members can meet their fundamental requirements and live decent lives without relying heavily on charity or aid from others. Essentially, justice reduces the need for charity because it addresses the root causes of inequality and poverty.

 

Thinking Lines

·         What is a society with more justice?

·         What are the characteristics of a just society?

·         What is Charity?

·         What is the need of charity in common societies?

·         How do we create a more just society?

 

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school.

Meaning

While specific factual knowledge may fade with time, the broader aspects of education, such as critical thinking, language proficiency, social skills, and character development, tend to endure and shape individuals throughout their lives. These enduring qualities are often as important, if not more so, than the specific subject matter learned in school.

Thinking Lines

·         What do we generally learn in school?

·         What do we usually forget after the schooling period?

·         What all usually remains even after schooling?

·         What is the importance of the above statement?