Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Q7. Discuss Socrates’ moral courage as a form of dissent. How can such courage be cultivated among today’s civil servants? (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question:
Recent focus on whistle-blower protection, training reforms in LBSNAA, and public ethical failures has revived interest in classical ethical figures like Socrates as models of dissent in governance.Key demand of the question:
The question requires explaining how Socrates’ moral courage exemplified ethical dissent, and then suggesting institutional and behavioural methods to foster similar courage among modern civil servants.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly introduce Socrates’ fearless ethical stance and its legacy in public morality.Body
- Describe Socrates’ moral courage as dissent based on conscience, truth, and ethical autonomy.
- Explain ways to cultivate such courage in civil servants through training, legal protection, tenure security, and ethical leadership.
Conclusion
Conclude with the idea that ethical dissent is foundational for democratic institutions and must be protected and nurtured.
