Q7. Ethical governance demands more than procedural compliance. Examine the distinction between legality and morality. Analyse why ethical restraint is essential in public administration. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Recent governance failures and ethical controversies highlight that mere legal compliance does not ensure just administration, making it important to examine the moral foundations of ethical governance in public life.Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the conceptual difference between legality and morality and analysing why ethical self-restraint is indispensable for public officials in exercising authority and discretion.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly establish governance as an exercise of public power where legality provides minimum standards but ethical values ensure fairness and justice.Body
- Distinction between legality and morality, focusing on rule-based compliance versus value-based judgement.
- Importance of ethical restraint in public administration, highlighting discretion, accountability, public trust, and constitutional morality.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasising that ethical restraint transforms lawful authority into legitimate and humane governance aligned with constitutional values.
