Q6. “Reformers derive legitimacy not from power but from their alignment with societal conscience.” Analyse this statement. Evaluate its relevance in contemporary public administration. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
Tests understanding of ethical legitimacy in public life and its application in governance, linking moral philosophy with administrative practice.Key Demand of the question
The question requires examining how reformers derive legitimacy from societal conscience rather than authority, and then connecting this idea to contemporary public administration practices. It also expects linking ethical theory with real governance contexts.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly introduce ethical legitimacy and the idea of societal conscience shaping reform.Body
- Analysis of statement: Explain that reformers gain acceptance through moral credibility, public trust, and alignment with collective values rather than coercive authority.
- Relevance in public administration: Show how modern administrators must rely on ethical conduct, participatory governance, and constitutional morality to sustain legitimacy and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Provide a forward-looking remark on embedding ethical legitimacy for sustainable governance.
