[Synopsis] Day 49 – August 20, 2024 75 Days Mains Revision Plan 2024

GS 1

1. The end of World War II marked the birth of a new international order. Examine.10M

Introduction

The Second World War, the most devastating military conflict in history, left an indelible mark on the world, not only through the loss of life and destruction but also by reshaping the global order. In the aftermath of the war, a new system of norms, ideals, and institutions emerged, fundamentally altering political, social, and economic landscapes across the globe.

Body:

Key Features of the New Global Order and Their Impact:

1. Emergence of a Bi-Polar World: The end of World War II led to the emergence of the United States (USA) and the Soviet Union (USSR) as the two dominant superpowers, representing capitalism and socialism, respectively.
   1. This bi-polar world order shaped global politics for decades, with each superpower exerting influence over other nations, leading to the Cold War and a series of proxy wars around the world.
2. Decolonization: The war significantly weakened European colonial powers, particularly France and Great Britain, which were gradually forced to relinquish their empires.
   1. The cost of maintaining colonies, coupled with the rise of national liberation movements and pressure from both the USA and USSR, accelerated the process of decolonization.
   2. g. Former colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East gained independence, reshaping the global political landscape.
3. Establishment of the United Nations: In an effort to prevent future conflicts, the Allied powers established the United Nations (UN) in 1945. Unlike its predecessor, the League of Nations, the UN was designed to be stronger and more effective in fostering international cooperation, maintaining peace, and promoting human rights.
   1. The creation of the UN marked a significant step towards global governance and the establishment of a rules-based international order.
4. Economic, Political, and Social Cooperation: The post-war period saw a push towards economic and social cooperation between former colonies and developed nations. The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), formed by countries that sought to remain independent of the USA-USSR rivalry, became a significant force in international relations.
   1. Additionally, economic reconstruction efforts, such as the Marshall Plan, played a crucial role in rebuilding war-torn Europe and stabilizing the global economy.
5. Changes in the World Economy:
   1. Supremacy of the United States: The post-war era marked the dominance of the United States in the global economy, facilitated by initiatives like the Bretton Woods Agreement, which established the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
      1. These institutions, along with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), laid the foundation for the liberalization of global trade and the spread of capitalism worldwide.
   2. Evolution of Human Rights: The horrors of the war, including the Holocaust and other atrocities, led to the establishment of the International Military Tribunals to prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
      1. This legal framework laid the groundwork for modern international human rights law, culminating in the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which protect civilians and combatants in times of war.

Conclusion

The new global order established after World War II continues to serve as a foundation for international relations and global governance. While challenges remain, the legacy of the post-war order is evident in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace, protect human rights, and foster global cooperation.

2. In Vietnam, the Cold War turned from a diplomatic standoff into a deadly conflict. Analyze the causes of the Vietnam War and its significance as a key theatre of the Cold War. 15M

Introduction

The Vietnam War, which spanned from 1955 to 1975, was one of the most significant conflicts of the Cold War era. It started as a struggle between the communist forces of North Vietnam, supported by the Soviet Union and China, and the anti-communist government of South Vietnam, backed primarily by the United States. The war escalated from a regional conflict into a major battleground of the Cold War, symbolizing the ideological struggle between communism and capitalism.

Body:

Causes of the Vietnam War

1. Colonial Legacy and Nationalist Movements:

1. 1. French Colonialism: Vietnam was part of French Indochina, and the roots of the conflict can be traced to the Vietnamese struggle for independence from French colonial rule.

1. After World War II, nationalist movements, particularly the Viet Minh under Ho Chi Minh, intensified their efforts to end colonial domination.

1. 1. First Indochina War (1946-1954): The struggle between the French colonial forces and the Viet Minh culminated in the First Indochina War. The war ended with the 1954 Geneva Accords, which temporarily divided Vietnam at the 17th parallel into a communist North and an anti-communist South.

2. Ideological Clash Between Communism and Capitalism:

1. 1. Domino Theory: The United States, driven by the fear of the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, subscribed to the Domino Theory. This ideological clash was a fundamental cause of U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
   2. Global Cold War Context: Both superpowers viewed Vietnam as a crucial front in their struggle for global influence, with the Soviet Union and China providing military and financial support to North Vietnam, while the United States did the same for South Vietnam.

3. Civil War and Political Instability in South Vietnam:

1. 1. Diem Regime: After the Geneva Accords, Ngo Dinh Diem became the leader of South Vietnam. His government, however, was marred by corruption, nepotism, and authoritarianism, which led to widespread dissatisfaction.

1. The Viet Cong, a communist insurgency in the South supported by North Vietnam, exploited this discontent, leading to a full-scale civil war.

1. 1. Failure of Reunification: The Geneva Accords had called for nationwide elections in 1956 to reunify Vietnam, but these elections were never held, largely due to Diem’s refusal to participate.

1. This failure exacerbated tensions and led to the intensification of the conflict.

4. Escalation by the United States:

1. 1. Gulf of Tonkin Incident (1964): The U.S. involvement in Vietnam escalated after the Gulf of Tonkin incident, where North Vietnamese forces allegedly attacked U.S. naval vessels.

1. This led to the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which gave President Lyndon B. Johnson the authority to increase U.S. military presence in Vietnam without a formal declaration of war.

1. 1. Military Buildup: The U.S. deployed hundreds of thousands of troops to Vietnam, aiming to support the South Vietnamese government and prevent the spread of communism.

1. The war, however, turned into a protracted and bloody conflict, with heavy casualties on both sides.

Significance of the Vietnam War as a Key Theatre of the Cold War

1. Demonstration of Cold War Dynamics:

1. 1. Proxy Warfare: The Vietnam War exemplified the Cold War practice of proxy warfare, where the superpowers avoided direct conflict but supported opposing sides in regional conflicts.

1. Vietnam became a battleground for this indirect confrontation, reflecting the broader global struggle between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

1. 1. Ideological Conflict: The war was not just a military conflict but also an ideological one. The U.S. aimed to contain communism, while North Vietnam sought to unify the country under a communist regime.

1. This clash of ideologies mirrored the larger Cold War struggle.

2. Impact on U.S. Foreign Policy:

1. 1. Vietnam Syndrome: it refers to the reluctance of the United States to engage in military interventions abroad following the perceived failure in Vietnam.

1. This had a lasting impact on U.S. foreign policy decisions, particularly in terms of military engagement in the post-Vietnam era.

1. 1. Détente: The Vietnam War also contributed to the shift towards détente in the 1970s, as both the U.S. and the Soviet Union sought to ease tensions and avoid further costly confrontations.

3. Global Perception and the Decline of U.S. Influence:

1. 1. Loss of Credibility: The Vietnam War significantly damaged the global image of the United States. The widespread opposition to the war, both domestically and internationally, highlighted the limits of U.S. power and led to a decline in its moral authority.
   2. Rise of Anti-War Movements: The Vietnam War sparked massive anti-war movements across the world, challenging the legitimacy of U.S. actions and influencing public opinion on issues related to war, peace, and human rights.

4. Influence on Future Conflicts:

1. 1. Guerrilla Warfare and Asymmetrical Tactics: The Vietnam War demonstrated the effectiveness of guerrilla warfare and asymmetrical tactics used by the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces.

1. This influenced future conflicts, as revolutionary and insurgent groups around the world adopted similar strategies to combat more powerful adversaries.

1. 1. Shifting Power Dynamics in Southeast Asia: The eventual victory of North Vietnam and the unification of the country under communist rule had significant implications for Southeast Asia.

1. It emboldened communist movements in neighbouring countries like Laos and Cambodia, leading to further conflicts and reshaping the region’s political landscape.

Conclusion

The war had profound implications for U.S. foreign policy, global power dynamics, and the nature of future conflicts. As a key theatre of the Cold War, Vietnam remains a potent symbol of the era’s complex and often tragic geopolitical contests.

ETHICS

1Q. Examine the ethical standards of journalism in India and suggest some measures for improvement. [10M, 150words]

Introduction:

Ethical standards in journalism serve as the bedrock of a free and responsible press, ensuring that news reporting is truthful, transparent, and accountable. In India, where journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and democratic discourse, adhering to these standards is vital for maintaining credibility and public trust.

Body:

Ethical standards of journalism in India are:

1. Transparency and accountability: Ethical journalism requires media outlets to be transparent about their sources and accountable for their reporting.

E.g. Acting as voice of voiceless.

2. Adherence to journalistic principles: Principles such as objectivity, and fairness. Reporters are expected to present facts accurately and avoid sensationalism.

E.g. Fairness and impartiality in journalism.

3. Respect for privacy: Ethical journalism respects individuals’ privacy, refraining from intrusive reporting unless there is a clear public interest.

E.g. Empathy towards victims.

4. Commitment to accuracy: Ensuring that all information reported is thoroughly verified and fact-checked before publication is a fundamental ethical standard.

E.g. Proof based reporting.

5. Self-regulation: Journalists and media organizations are encouraged to self-regulate, adhering to established codes of conduct and ethical guidelines.

Limitations to ethical standards

1. Erosion of ethics: There has been a noticeable increase in unethical practices, which undermine the credibility of journalism in India.

E.g. Fake news, and sensationalism.

2. Biased reporting: Many media outlets exhibit clear bias, often aligning with particular political or commercial interests.

E.g. Paid news media outlets.

3. Manipulation of TRPs: The manipulation of TRPs by some TV channels for commercial gain distorts news coverage, prioritizing sensationalism over substance.

E.g. Republic TV TRP manipulation issue.

4. Misuse of freedom: There is growing concern over the misuse of press freedom, where some outlets cross ethical boundaries, leading to a decline in public trust.

E.g. Disturbing social fabric through communal debates.

5. Lack of effective self-regulation: The voluntary nature of self-regulation in journalism often leads to inadequate enforcement of ethical standards.

Measures for improvement

1. Strengthening self-regulation: Professional bodies like the Editors Guild of India and statutory bodies such as the Press Council of India should enforce stricter self-regulatory measures and ethical guidelines.
2. Imposing reasonable restrictions: While maintaining freedom of the press, it is essential to introduce reasonable restrictions to prevent unethical practices and ensure accountability.
3. Enhancing transparency: Media organizations should adopt greater transparency in their operations, including disclosing funding sources and potential conflicts of interest.
4. Promoting ethical training: Journalists should receive ongoing training on ethical standards and best practices to reinforce the importance of integrity and professionalism in reporting.
5. Encouraging public feedback: Establishing mechanisms for public feedback and complaint redressal can help address grievances related to unethical journalism and improve media accountability.

Conclusion:

Adhering to ethical standards is crucial for maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of journalism. Indian journalism can better serve its role in a democratic society, ensuring that it remains a credible and reliable source of information.

2Q. Priya is a senior nurse working in a reputed hospital in a city known for its religious diversity. She is highly dedicated to her job and respected by her colleagues for her professionalism and compassion. Recently, a new policy was introduced at the hospital, requiring all healthcare staff to assist in administering certain medical procedures, including those related to reproductive health. Priya belongs to a religious community that holds strong beliefs against certain reproductive health procedures, considering them morally unacceptable. Her religious convictions make her uncomfortable with participating in these procedures, yet her role as a senior nurse requires her to be involved. Priya is now faced with a dilemma: should she adhere to her religious beliefs, or should she comply with her professional obligations, which include performing these procedures.

In the context of the given case study:

1. Identify the ethical issues involved in the case.
2. What are the options available to Priya in this case? Evaluate each option.
3. How should Priya navigate the conflict between her professional duties as a healthcare provider and her personal religious beliefs? [20M]

Introduction:

This case highlights the tension between professional obligations and personal ethics, raising important questions about how to balance these competing demands.

Body:

1. a) The ethical issues involved are:
2. Conflict of conscience: Priya’s religious beliefs clash with her professional responsibilities, causing a moral dilemma about participating in procedures she finds objectionable.
3. Professional integrity: Compliance with hospital policies challenges Priya’s commitment to her role, involving tasks she finds ethically troubling.
4. Patient care: Refusal by Priya or others with similar beliefs may impact patient care, raising concerns about the availability and quality of services.
5. Religious freedom: The balance between a healthcare professional’s right to religious beliefs and the obligation to follow hospital procedures.
6. Institutional policy: The hospital’s policy may not account for staff’s religious and ethical concerns, leading to a conflict between institutional rules and personal beliefs.

1. b) Options available to Priya are:

1. Option 1: Comply with the policy

Merits:

1. • Ensures adherence to hospital policies and contributes to a cohesive work environment.
   • Avoids potential disciplinary action for non-compliance.

Demerits:

1. • Violates Priya’s personal religious beliefs, causing emotional and moral distress.
   • May lead to decreased job satisfaction and professional burnout.
2. Option 2: Request accommodation

Merits:

1. • Allows Priya to continue working in alignment with her religious beliefs while still fulfilling her professional role in other capacities.
   • Shows a willingness to compromise without fully abandoning her professional obligations.

Demerits:

1. • May not be granted if the hospital’s policy does not allow for exceptions, potentially leading to conflicts or tension with management.
   • Could lead to perceived inequities among staff, with some receiving accommodations while others do not.
2. Option 3: Seek transfer to another department

Merits:

1. • Provides Priya with a way to continue her career in a role that aligns with her ethical and religious convictions.
   • Maintains her employment while avoiding the specific procedures she objects to.

Demerits:

1. • Might not be feasible if there are no available positions or if a transfer is not possible.
   • Could affect Priya’s career trajectory or professional relationships.
2. Option 4: Resign from the position

Merits:

1. • Allows Priya to fully adhere to her religious beliefs without professional compromise.
   • Opens up the possibility for Priya to find a role in an environment more aligned with her values.

Demerits:

1. • Results in the loss of employment and potential financial instability.
   • May limit future career opportunities and professional growth.
2. Option 5: Engage in dialogue and advocate for policy change

Merits:

1. • Allows Priya to raise awareness about the impact of the policy on staff with religious convictions, potentially leading to policy adjustments.
   • Demonstrates leadership and commitment to ethical and inclusive practices.

Demerits:

1. • The process of advocating for change can be lengthy and uncertain.
   • Might not result in immediate changes, leaving Priya in a difficult position in the interim.

1. c) Priya should navigate the conflict in following way:

1. Open communication: Priya should initiate a discussion with her supervisors or human resources to express her concerns and seek possible accommodations.
2. Explore policy flexibility: If the hospital has room for policy flexibility, Priya should advocate for such changes, presenting a case that includes the ethical and practical implications of the policy on staff members.
3. Seek support from professional organizations: Consulting with professional nursing organizations or ethics boards may provide guidance and support in addressing the conflict between professional obligations and personal beliefs.
4. Evaluate personal and professional impact: Priya should carefully weigh the personal and professional implications of each option. If necessary, she should consider the long-term effects on her career and personal well-being.
5. Consider transfer or resignation: If no satisfactory resolution is found and her religious beliefs remain in conflict with her duties, Priya may need to consider transferring to another role or, as a last resort, resigning from her position.

Conclusion:

In the face of ethical dilemmas, the challenge lies not in choosing between right and wrong, but in reconciling our personal values with our professional duties. True integrity is found in navigating this balance with respect and compassion.