Q7. Distinguish between a Code of Ethics and a Code of Conduct. Explain why both are necessary for civil services. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
Civil services operate on public trust and discretionary authority, tests whether one understand the difference between value-guidance and rule-enforcement, and why both are required for ethical governance.
Key Demand of the question
The question demands a clear distinction between a Code of Ethics and a Code of Conduct (preferably in a table). It also requires explaining why both are essential for ensuring integrity, accountability, and citizen-centric administration.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Define ethics as value-guided public service and introduce the need for both value standards and behavioural rules in civil services.Body
- Present a two-column table distinguishing Code of Ethics vs Code of Conduct on basis like nature, focus, enforceability, scope and examples.
- Explain why both are needed: ethics for guiding discretion and conduct for enforceability, together preventing misuse of power and strengthening public trust.
Conclusion
End with a crisp line linking both to constitutional morality, probity and trust-based governance.
