Q7. “Obedience to authority cannot become a substitute for moral judgement.” Evaluate the ethical responsibilities of public servants when legal orders raise concerns regarding fairness and human dignity. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
The ethical tension between obedience to authority and individual conscience, a recurring dilemma in public administration where legality may sometimes conflict with fairness, justice and human dignity.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires evaluating why blind obedience cannot replace ethical reasoning and examining the responsibilities of public servants when legally valid orders raise concerns relating to fairness, justice, constitutional morality and human dignity.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the importance of moral judgement, constitutional morality and ethical accountability in public service beyond mere compliance with authority.
Body
- Limits of blind obedience: How unquestioning compliance may undermine justice, integrity, human dignity and public trust.
- Ethical responsibilities of public servants: Duty to uphold constitutional values, exercise moral courage, ensure fairness and protect human dignity while implementing orders.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasising that ethical public administration requires balancing lawful authority with conscience, integrity and commitment to constitutional values.
