Q7. “Ethical institutions are not those that never fail, but those that remain accountable when failures occur”. Comment. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Recent debates on institutional accountability, transparency in public systems and responsiveness of organisations to failures have renewed focus on ethical governance and public trust.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires commenting on the statement by explaining why accountability is the defining feature of ethical institutions and examining how responsible responses to failures strengthen legitimacy and trust.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly define ethical institutions in terms of integrity, accountability and commitment to public interest.
Body
- Meaning of the statement: Explain why ethical institutions are judged by their response to failures rather than by an unrealistic expectation of perfection.
- Importance of accountability after failures: Discuss how transparency, responsibility and corrective action enhance institutional credibility and trust.
Conclusion
Conclude by highlighting that accountability transforms institutional setbacks into opportunities for ethical learning, reform and stronger governance.
