Topic: Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration
Q6. Ethical transparency and Ethical accountability should not be just mere words but rather internalized as a habit which should be performed even without any external push. Elaborate. (10M)
Difficulty level: Medium
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General Studies paper – 4.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the various types of social influence.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must define key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate them with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Define ethical transparency and ethical accountability in the context of governance, emphasizing openness and answerability.
Body:
Discuss how relying solely on external mechanisms (carrot-and-stick approach) may not be reliable in ensuring public interest in governance. Emphasize that internalizing these values is more effective for long-term adherence.
Next, Show the means for Internalization e.g., Ethical Training, Reinforcing Legal Instruments, Political Will etc.
Conclusion
You may conclude as:
The external push alone may not ensure sustained ethical transparency and accountability. Internalizing the purpose behind these values is crucial, aligning decisions and activities with governance objectives.
