Q6. “Ethical dilemmas arise when personal moral convictions conflict with institutional obligations”. Examine this statement in the context of public service. Illustrate how such conflicts can be resolved. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
Ethical dilemmas in public service are increasingly visible amid governance challenges, making it crucial to understand how civil servants balance personal morality with institutional obligations.Key Demand of the question
The question requires examining how conflicts arise between individual conscience and official duties in public service. It also demands suggesting broad ways through which such ethical tensions can be resolved within a constitutional and administrative framework.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly indicate the tension between individual ethics and institutional roles in governance with a reference to constitutional morality.Body
- Nature of conflict: Show how personal moral beliefs may clash with rules, political neutrality, or institutional expectations in public service.
- Context in public service: Indicate typical situations like administrative decisions, political pressure, or procedural rigidity where such dilemmas arise.
- Resolution mechanisms: Suggest alignment with constitutional values, due process, institutional safeguards, and ethical training as ways to resolve such conflicts.
Conclusion
Emphasize the need for harmonising conscience with constitutional principles to ensure ethical and accountable governance.
