Topic: Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
7) Can ignorance be an excuse for misconduct? Evaluate in the context of civil services.(250 words)
Ethics by Lexicon
Why this question:
The question is intended to evaluate the virtue of Ignorance as a reason for misconduct and to how far can it be taken as an excuse in public services.
Key demand of the question:
The answer must discuss the importance of awareness , consciousness and knowledge against that of ignorance that can not be treated as an excuse for misconduct in the public services.
Directive word:
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidences. You have to appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming a personal opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
In a few introductory lines appreciate the need for values of awareness, wisdom, realization and know-how.
Body:
- Explain – why misconduct with an excuse of ignorance is a misconduct in itself.
- Delinquency and bad behaviour can not be excused in the name of ignorance and non-awareness. Quote examples from day to day life to justify the same.
- Suggest how this ignorance needs to be treated and should not be taken as an excuse for misconduct, misbehavior and transgression from the ethics and values associated with the public services.
- Discuss what should be done to overcome such situations.
Conclusion:
Conclude with importance of virtues of honesty, aptitude, awareness, knowledge etc. in the right doings of the public servants in their service.
