Q6. “Virtue ethics provides a more sustainable foundation for ethical governance than rule-based approaches.” Examine this view. Illustrate with contributions of major thinkers. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
Comparative understanding of ethical frameworks in governance and the relevance of classical moral philosophy in contemporary administrative practice.Key Demand of the question
It requires examining whether virtue ethics offers a more sustainable basis than rule-based approaches while also illustrating the argument through contributions of major moral thinkers. The answer must balance evaluation with philosophical grounding.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly define virtue ethics and rule-based ethics and link them to governance context with emphasis on sustainability of ethical behaviour.Body
- Virtue ethics as sustainable foundation: Indicate how internal moral character ensures consistency in ethical conduct beyond rules.
- Limitations of rule-based approaches: Suggest rigidity and possibility of circumvention in complex governance contexts.
- Thinkers’ contributions: Mention one line each on how thinkers like Aristotle, Gandhi or Confucius support virtue-based governance.
Conclusion
Provide a forward-looking line suggesting integration of virtues with institutional mechanisms for ethical governance.
