Q7. What is ethical silence? Analyse the circumstances in which silence by a public servant may amount to moral complicity. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
In the context of growing concerns over ethical silence, passive conformity and the normalisation of wrongdoing in public institutions.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the meaning and dimensions of ethical silence and analysing the circumstances under which silence by a public servant may become moral complicity.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly introduce silence as an ethical choice whose moral character depends on motive, context and consequences.
Body
- Ethical silence: Explain its nature and major dimensions in the context of public service ethics.
- Moral complicity: Analyse when knowledge, capacity to act and deliberate inaction make silence ethically culpable.
Conclusion
Conclude by highlighting the importance of moral courage, ethical agency and responsible dissent in public service.
