SIMPLIFYING IAS EXAM PREPARATION - INSIGHTSIAS · developed his philosophy of new humanism. M.N....

INSIGHTSIAS SIMPLIFYING IAS EXAM PREPARATION

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MAINS 2018

AUGUST 2018

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GS-IV

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NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They

are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is

content that both meets demand of the question and at the same time gives you extra

points in the form of background information.

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Table of Contents

General Studies Paper - IV ________________________________________________________________ 4

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world. ___________________________ 4

Q) Discuss the M.N Roy’s philosophy of new humanism. (250 words) ______________________4

Q) Values play a central role in the ancient philosophy of India. Discuss. (250 words) ______5

TOPIC: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role

of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values. Probity in Governance: Concept of public

service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; ______________________________________________ 6

Q) There is a need to move from the traditional hierarchical exercise of power by the

government to the new notion of a “dispersed and relational power in governance. In the light

of the above statement, discuss the difference between governance and government. (250

words) ___________________________________________________________________________________6

Q) What are human values. Discuss. Also discuss some the human values having a universal

relevance. (250 words) ___________________________________________________________________7

Q) Age has an important influence in shaping the value system of a person. Discuss. (250

words) ___________________________________________________________________________________9

Q) The aim of education is knowledge, not of facts but of values. Comment. (250 words) __ 10

TOPIC : Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions;

dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships. ______________________________________ 12

Q) The existence of ethics entirely depends on our ability to choose. Critically Comment. (250

words) _________________________________________________________________________________ 12

Q) Buddhism goes on to develop its own ethical virtue by observing the self-discipline of

keeping certain moral precepts. Discuss. (250 words) ___________________________________ 13

Q) There are many ways that organizations can create a culture that supports and nurtures

ethics. Discuss. (250 words) ____________________________________________________________ 15

Topic – Determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions ___________________________________ 16

Q) Evaluate whether the economic theory of consumerism is ill suited for the human race?

(250 words) ____________________________________________________________________________ 16

TOPIC : Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and

dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical

guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical

issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance. __________________________________ 17

Q) How we deal with those excluded out of NRC will determine how humane our democracy

actually is. Comment. (250 words) ______________________________________________________ 17

Q) In the wake of the private sector playing an increasing role of providing public services, it

is essential to deal with corruption in private sector. Discuss how corruption in private sector

can be dealt with. (250 words) __________________________________________________________ 18

Q) There is a growing conflict on how public organizations try to balance competing or

conflicting values: classical governmental or bureaucratic values vs the businesslike values.

Comment. (250 words) _________________________________________________________________ 20




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TOPIC : Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of

Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of

corruption. Case Studies on above issues. ________________________________________________________ 21

Q) Discuss the difference between the code of ethics and the code of conduct. (250 words) 21

Topic: Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance _ 23

Q) Discuss the five components of emotional intelligence as proposed by Daniel Goleman. (250

words) _________________________________________________________________________________ 23

Topic: Case studies on Ethics. __________________________________________________________________ 25

Q) You are a jurist deciding an ethical case involving allegations that, Mrs. Sandy Tyson had

helped her husband obtain a University fellowship to which he was not entitled. She is a

former employee of the University. Mrs. Tyson is an African-American black lady married to

Mike Tyson and both have denied the allegations and termed them as racist and baseless.

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 25

What are the ethical issues involved here ? _________________________________________ 25

What will be your decision ? (250 words) ____________________________________ 25




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General Studies Paper - IV

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

Q) Discuss the M.N Roy’s philosophy of new humanism. (250 words)

Reference

Key demand of the question.

The question wants us to simply write in detail about the philosophy of new humanism propounded by the twentieth century Indian freedom fighter and philosopher, MN Roy.

Directive word

Discuss- This s an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question.

Structure of the answer

Introduction– write a few lines about MN Roy, his life and important contributions.

Body–

Discuss his philosophy of new humanism in detail and bring out its salient aspects and discuss them in detail. E.g the central idea of the Twenty-Two Theses is that political philosophy must start from the basic idea that the individual is prior to society, and freedom can be enjoyed only by individuals; Quest for freedom and search for truth, according to Roy, constitute the basic urge of human progress. The purpose of all-rational human endeavor, individual as well as collective, is attainment of freedom in ever-increasing measure. The amount of freedom available to the individuals is the measure of social progress etc. Take the help of the article attached to the question and any other relevant material to frame your answer.

Conclusion-sum up your discussion in a few lines and form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the above issue.

Background:-

M.N. Roy was a twentieth century Indian philosopher. In 1940, Roy and his followers left Congress owing to differences with the Congress leadership on the role of India in the Second World War. Thereafter, Roy formed the Radical Democratic Party of his own. This signaled the beginning of the last phase of Roy’s life in which he developed his philosophy of new humanism.

M.N. Roy’s philosophy of new humanism :-

M.N. Roy’s New Humanism is a great contribution to the history of political philosophy.

M.N. Roy realized that the modern crisis requires a new orientation of human thinking, particularly in politics. New Humanism tried to solve the problems of ethics and historiology and wanted to synthesise the humanist, the materialist, the naturalist and the rationalist so as to coordinate the philosophy of value with a social philosophy and ethics

It was a bold and new attempt to answer the problems of political and ethical consideration.

New Humanism re-asserts the sovereignty of man.

It accepts the worth of moral and spiritual freedom, reason and ethics. It looks beyond nationalism.

It is cosmopolitan in its outlook.

It pleads for a cooperative fellowship of man.

It enunciates the supremacy of the eternal urge of freedom.

His integral radical new humanism was a moral restatement of Marxism.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/02/7-discuss-the-m-n-roys-philosophy-of-new-humanism-250-words/

https://www.iep.utm.edu/roy_mn/


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Q) Values play a central role in the ancient philosophy of India. Discuss. (250 words)

Reference

Why this question

Indian philosophies is one of the oldest philosophies in the world with certain peculiar traits and lines of thought. Indian philosophy has a lot to share with the western and eastern philosophies but also differs from them in certain key respects.

Directive word


The question simply wants us to dig deep into the Indian philosophy and write in detail about the role and importance of values in Indian philosophy.


Introduction– briefly discuss Indian philosophies roots in vedas and their link with morality.

Body –

Discuss main schools of Indian Philosophy and differentiate between orthodox and heterodox schools of thought.

Discuss the similarities of Indian philosophies and their stress on linking philosophy with practice. E.g Indian ethics is based on Purusarthas i.e. ultimate goal of life. The Indian conception of values- viz the four connote as the goals of human life to be achieved through activities or practice, Indian philosophy is mainly axiological and additionally, cosmological and epistemological etc.

Conclusion– present a balanced and fair conclusion on the key demand of the question.

Answer:-

Values occupy utmost importance in life and society; they play a vital role in the making of a life human. Indian ethical traditions have been one of the great repositories of moral thought in world philosophy whose insights have influenced early Greece, Europe, Asia, and the New World.

Indians distinguish between two classes of Indian philosophies: astika and nastika. The astika systems respect the Vedas to some degree. They are: Sankhya, Yoga, Vedanta, Mimamsa, Nyaya, and Vaisheshika. The nastika systems reject Vedic thought Jain, Buddhist and materialist (Charvaka).

Indian systems shared many ethical values, too. Generally, passions and desires were to be controlled, and harm was not to be done to any forms of life. Indian philosophies share many concepts such as dharma, karma, samsara, reincarnation, dukkha, renunciation, meditation, with almost all of them focussing on the ultimate goal of liberation of the individual through diverse range of spiritual practices (moksha, nirvana). Indian ethics is based on Purusarthas which refers to a goal, end or aim of human existence. There are generally considered to be four such puruṣarthas, namely:

Dharma: Religious, social and/or moral righteousness, both spiritual and ritual. Dharma, in its very early meaning is equated to rta which in the form of natural law, is the maintenance of the order (Ethical order) of Universe.

Artha: material and/or financial prosperity as well as pursuit of meaning

Kama: material pleasure

Mokṣa: spiritual liberation or renunciation as well as detachment



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/08/6-values-play-a-central-role-in-the-ancient-philosophy-of-india-discuss-250-words/

http://ijar.org.in/stuff/issues/v1-i2(1)/v1-i2(1)-a016.pdf


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TOPIC: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and

administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values. Probity in

Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity;

Q) There is a need to move from the traditional hierarchical exercise of power by the

government to the new notion of a “dispersed and relational power in governance. In the

light of the above statement, discuss the difference between governance and government.

(250 words)

Reference

Why this question

Governance and the government are two interrelated concepts but have a significant difference between the two, which needs to be discussed upon.

Directive word

Discuss-This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. We also have to discuss about the related and important aspects of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.


The question wants us to bring out the difference between government and governance and discuss why governance based systems are better than government based systems.


Introduction- define and write a few lines about the term governance. E.g The word “governance” came from the Latin verb “gubernare,” or more originally from the Greek word “kubernaein,” which means “to steer.” Basing on its etymology, governance refers to the manner of steering or governing, or of directing and controlling, a group of people or a state.

Body-

Differentiate between government and governance and bring out e\why the later is better than the former. E.g the meaning of governance includes, not just government actors, but also civil-society actors. Today, governance includes three sectors: the public sector (state actors and institutions), the private sector (households and companies), and the civil society (non-governmental organizations). These three sectors are said to work hand in hand in the process of governance. This new use of the term focuses on the role of “networks” in the achievement of the common good, whether these networks are intergovernmental, transnational, or international. ; government is associated with “control and domination,” and governance with “decentralization and relational management.” On the one hand, government refers to a central institution which wields power over its subjects. It is the instrument patterned after the model of “command and control,” the government being in command over the affairs of the people. On the other hand, governance is closely associated with the concept of decentralization of power and the need for inter-sectoral management. Governance is based on the realization that the government cannot do everything for the people, so that in order to survive the state should not only rely on government but also on the other sectors of the society etc.

Conclusion– Based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.

Answer :-

Governance is commonly defined as the exercise of power or authority by political leaders for the well-being of their country’s citizens or subjects. It is the complex process whereby some sectors of the society wield power, and enact and promulgate public policies which directly affect human and institutional interactions, and economic and social development.



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https://tamayaosbc.wordpress.com/2014/08/21/what-is-governance/


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Difference between governance and government :-

Governance involves interaction between the formal institutions and those in civil society. Governance refers to a process whereby elements in society wield power, authority and influence and enact policies and decisions concerning public life and social upliftment. “Governance”, therefore, not only encompasses but transcends the collective meaning of related concepts like the state, government, regime and good government.

Government is only one arm of modern society and it derives its legitimacy and powers from its taxes, spending, laws, and regulations. Government is only one part of the governance of managing our large and complex modern society.

Governance includes three sectors: the public sector (state actors and institutions), the private sector (households and companies), and the civil society (non-governmental organizations). These three sectors are said to work hand in hand in the process of governance.

Government is a body that comprises a person or a group of persons who run the administration of the government. This is a means in which power is exercised. On the other hand, governance refers to the process or activities of a government. Therefore it is the laws and rules made by the government that are sought to be implemented through a chosen bureaucracy which is referred to as governance. Simply put, the process of governing people or a state is called governance.

In addition, these terms ‘government’ and ‘governance’ can be characterised as follows. Originally, government’s characteristics were hierarchy, top-down control, intervention in economy and the job of government was to row, not to steer the boat. However, shift “from government to governance” is associated with the view that governments should ‘steer’ not ‘row’. Partnership, network among public sector and private sector which is non-govenment are focused on.

Government with control and domination and governance with decentralization and relational management. On the one hand, government refers to a central institution which wields power over its subjects. It is the instrument patterned after the model of “command and control,” the government being in command over the affairs of the people. On the other hand, governance is closely associated with the concept of decentralization of power and the need for inter-sectoral management. Governance is based on the realization that the government cannot do everything for the people, so that in order to survive the state should not only rely on government but also on the other sectors of the society.

Q) What are human values. Discuss. Also discuss some the human values having a

universal relevance. (250 words)

Lexicon Ethics Book; Chapter- Ethics and Human interface.

Reference

Directive word

Discuss- Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. We also have to discuss about the related and important aspects of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.


The question wants us to write in detail about the meaning and significance of human values. It also wants us to write in detail about some human values that have universal relevance.


Introduction– Write a few introductory lines about human values. E.g values are desirable, trans-situational goals, varying in importance, that serves as guiding principles in people’s lives. Each of us holds numerous values with varying degrees of importance. A particular value may be very important to one person, but unimportant to another.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/28/7-what-are-human-values-discuss-also-discuss-some-the-human-values-having-a-universal-relevance-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/28/7-what-are-human-values-discuss-also-discuss-some-the-human-values-having-a-universal-relevance-250-words/

https://www.yourmorals.org/schwartz.2006.basic%20human%20values.pdf


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Body–

Discuss the common features of human values. E.g Values are beliefs are beliefs tied inextricably to emotion; Values are a motivational construct. They refer to the desirable goals people strive to attain ; Values transcend specific actions and situations. They are abstract goals which distinguishes them from concepts like norms and attitudes, which usually refer to specific actions, objects, or situations; Values guide the selection or evaluation of actions, policies, people, and events i.e serve as standards or criteria; Values are ordered by importance relative to one another. People’s values form an ordered system of value priorities that characterize them as individuals. This hierarchical feature of values also distinguishes them from norms and attitudes.

Discuss in points values which have a universal relevance in terms of different societies. E.g

Truth; Love-Caring; Peace; Responsibility; Justice etc. Discuss each value briefly and take the help of the book and the article attached to the question to from your answer.

Conclusion– sum up your discussion in a few lines and form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the above issue.

Answer:-

Values are the guiding principles of our lives. They are essential for positive human behaviour and actions in our daily lives. They are formed on the basis of interests, choices, needs, desires and preferences. Values transcend specific actions and situations. They are abstract goals. The abstract nature of values distinguishes them from concepts like norms and attitudes, which usually refer to specific actions, objects, or situations. A particular value may be very important to one person, but unimportant to another.

Values guide the selection or evaluation of actions, policies, people, and events i.e serve as standards or criteria; Values are ordered by importance relative to one another. People’s values form an ordered system of value priorities that characterize them as individuals. This hierarchical feature of values also distinguishes them from norms and attitudes.

Human values:-

Human values are necessity in today’s society and business world. Human values are the features that guide people to take into account the human element when one interacts with other human. They have many positive characters that create bonds of humanity between people and thus have value for all human beings. They are strong positive feelings for the human essence of the other. These human values have the effect of bonding, comforting, reassuring and procuring serenity. Human values are the basis for any practical life within society.

Common human values are as under:

1. Brotherhood, friendship, empathy, compassion, and love.

2. Openness, listening, welcoming, acceptance, recognition, and appreciation.

3. Honesty, fairness, loyalty, sharing, and solidarity.

4. Civility, respect, and consideration.

The function of these basic values enable every human to realize or maintain highest or human value for establishing relations of peace and yet it remains indefinable.

Human values having universal relevance:-

A value is a universal value if it has the same value or worth for all, or almost all, people.

The values which are considered basic inherent values in humans include truth, honesty, loyalty, love, peace, etc. because they bring out the fundamental goodness of human beings and society at large. Further, since these values are unifying in nature and cut across individual’s social, cultural, religious and sectarian interests; they are also considered universal, timeless and eternal applying to all human beings. These values are directly associated to physical, intellectual, emotional psyche and spiritual facets of human personality.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

Love: The presence of love in human life, the love they have for their families, friends, our faith and for themselves is important source of energy to lead smooth life.

Respect: Respect is a feeling of deep esteem for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.

Trust: Trust can be understood in many ways, but finally it comes down to reliability and truth. Without trust, the world simply would not function.

Integrity: As a human value, integrity is imperative that people stand spiritually undivided and hold true to our integrity, the importance of which is often forgotten.

Q) Age has an important influence in shaping the value system of a person. Discuss. (250

words)

Reference

Directive word

Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. We also have to discuss about the related and important aspects of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.


The question wants us to write in detail as to how age of a person shapes his/her value system.


Introduction– write a simple definition of value system. E.g A hierarchy of values that all moral agents possess, demonstrated by their choices etc.

Body- Discuss how age shapes the value system of a person. E.g

Discuss how historical events that impact on specific age cohorts (e.g., war, depression- materialist values are stronger) shape the value system of a particular age group.

Discuss how older persons have different values than the younger persons. E.g With age, security values may be more important because a safe, predictable environment is more critical as capacities to cope with change wane. Stimulation values may be less important because novelty and risk are more threatening. Conformity and tradition values may also be more important with age because accepted ways of doing things are less demanding and threatening.

Discuss the effect of life stage of a person. E.g Opportunities, demands, and constraints associated with life stages may cause age differences in values. The young people have circumstances which encourage pursuit of achievement and stimulation values at the expense of security, conformity, and tradition values etc.

Take help of the article attached to the question to clarify your concept and to frame your answer.

Answer:-

It is common to speak of three systematic sources of value change in adulthood: historical events that impact on specific age cohorts (e.g., war, depression), physical ageing (e.g., loss of strength or memory), and life stage (e.g., child rearing, widowhood). Each of these sources affects value-relevant experiences. They determine the opportunities and constraints people confront and their resources for coping.

Younger people:-

People form values in adolescence that change little thereafter. The more economic and physical insecurity the adolescents experience, the more important materialist values are to them throughout their lives.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/29/7-age-has-an-important-influence-in-shaping-the-the-value-system-of-a-person-discuss-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/29/7-age-has-an-important-influence-in-shaping-the-the-value-system-of-a-person-discuss-250-words/

https://www.yourmorals.org/schwartz.2006.basic%20human%20values.pdf


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Younger groups will give greater priority to hedonism, stimulation, self-direction, and, possibly, to universalism values, but less priority to security, tradition, and conformity values.

Young adults are expected to prove their mettle. These life circumstances encourage pursuit of achievement and stimulation values at the expense of security, conformity, and tradition values.

Middle adulthood:-

In middle adulthood, people are invested in established family, work, and social relations that they are committed to preserve. Most are approaching the level of achievement they will attain.

Work and family responsibilities constrain risk-taking and opportunities for change narrow. Such life circumstances are conducive to more emphasis on security, conformity, and tradition values and less on stimulation and achievement values. The constraints and opportunities of the pre-retirement life stage reinforce these trends.

Older people:-

Older persons in much of the world give higher priority to materialist vs. post-materialist values than younger people.

Achievement and, perhaps, power values may also be less important for older people who are less able to perform demanding tasks successfully and to obtain social approval.

With retirement and widowhood, opportunities to express achievement, power, stimulation, and hedonism values decrease further. In contrast, the importance of security and the investment in traditional ways of doing things make security and tradition values more important because a safe, predictable environment is more critical as capacities to cope with change wane.

Stimulation values may be less important because novelty and risk are more threatening.

Q) The aim of education is knowledge, not of facts but of values. Comment. (250 words)

NCERT

Livemint

Directive word

Comment- here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.


The question wants us to bring out the role of education in so far as provision of knowledge of values and not facts. We have to defend our opinion by presenting adequate, valid arguments/ facts/ examples.


Introduction– write a few introductory lines about education. E.g Education is the aggregate of all the processes by which a person develops abilities, attitudes and other forms of behaviour of practical values in the society in which he/she lives; the social process by which people are subjected to the influence of selected and controlled environment, so that they may obtain social competence and optimum individual development

Body-

Based on your convictions, knowledge and understanding which guide your opinion, discuss points in favour of your opinion.

Discuss the narrower meaning of education- e.g in a narrow sense, education is nothing, but a purposeful activity, deliberately planned for the optimum development of an individual’s potentials. There is a deliberate effort made with a definite purpose to develop certain amount of knowledge, skills, attitudes and habits in these institutions. This is a narrow



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/30/7-the-aim-of-education-is-knowledge-not-of-facts-but-of-values-comment-250-words/

http://www.ncert.nic.in/pdf_files/basic_in_education.pdf

https://www.livemint.com/Opinion/nkVWdqMMFXq3xgdKiIZhlK/Education-and-values.html


SECURE SYNOPSIS

concept of education, which is confined only to a few specific, deliberate, and planned efforts that have a bearing on the development of the individual. The educator, in the narrow sense, aims at producing the literate or a professional person such as an engineer, a doctor, a teacher, a businessman and so on. Here, the individual is deliberately ‘taught to think’ as predetermined by the educators etc.

Discuss the broader meaning of education. E.g In the broader or wider sense, education is not limited to a classroom or a school only. It is considered to be a lifelong process, where all the experiences, knowledge and wisdom that an individual acquires at different stages of one’s life through different channels (i.e., formally, informally and incidentally) are termed as education. The broader view considers education as an act or experience that has formative or additive effect on the personality of an individual. It also provides social capacity to students, equipping them with social and relationship skills, intelligences and attitudes to succeed at school and throughout their lives.

Conclusion- Based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.

Background:-

The term ‘education’ has been interpreted by different people in different ways. Some people refer to it as formal schooling or to lifelong learning. Some others refer to it as acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes. Some say that education is nothing, but training of people’s mind in a particular direction to bring about desired changes. Education seeks to develop the innate or the inner potentialities of humans.

Education, in the narrow sense aims at knowledge of facts:-

It is also regarded as acquisition of knowledge. According to it education is a process by which knowledge or information on a subject is acquire. The aims of education in these contexts are measured in terms of degrees or certification or promotion.

This is a narrow concept of education, which is confined only to a few specific, deliberate, and planned efforts that have a bearing on the development of the individual. The educator, in the narrow sense, aims at producing the literate or a professional person such as an engineer, a doctor, a teacher, a businessman and so on. Here, the individual is deliberately ‘taught to think’ as predetermined by the educators.

Thus, in a narrow sense, education is nothing, but a purposeful activity, deliberately planned for the optimum development of an individual’s potentials and does not include self culture and the general influences of one’s surroundings, but only those special influences which are consciously and designedly brought to bear upon the youngster by the adult persons of the community

Indian education system:

A large proportion of students seem to harbour attitudes and beliefs about crucial areas of social and personal life that show a bias and ignorance.

Gender and sectarian bias, insensitivity to disability, and misconceptions about civic responsibility and ecological challenges are rife.

For example, nearly 43% of students in classes 4, 6 and 8 felt that education for a girl is less important than for boys.

Nearly half of the students had strong preconceptions about people of other religions and believe that religious differences matter and should be violently defended.

It is sobering that the progressive values articulated in the Constitution, have still not found wide acceptance in our schools. Students in schools depend more on rote learning and less on understanding. These students fare poorly also in international comparisons of academic learning.

Broader focus tends to aim on education with values :-

True learning happens when the student builds, often gradually, coherent conceptual schemes about how the world works and is able to use these concepts to understand, explain and act in unfamiliar situations. Such learning is rarely ever a product of rote. It is, more often than not, a result of learning to cooperate, think critically, and experiment with diverse situations.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

Education is not limited to a classroom or a school only. It is considered to be a life long process, where all the experiences, knowledge and wisdom that an individual acquires at different stages of one’s life through different channels are termed as education.

The broader view considers education as an act or experience that has formative or additive effect on the personality of an individual. It is believed that education is not only an instrument of social change, but also an investment in national development.

Such a view of education encompasses all life experiences, as there is a shift in emphasis from individual development to national development.

The broader meaning of education implies the process of development, wherein the individual gradually adapts himself/herself to various ways to his/her physical, social and spiritual environments.

Conclusion:-

Critical thinking, empathy and dialogue are key aspects of such a learning process. Our schools and teachers need to become adept at encouraging students to question the conventional and to discover the meaning of the personal and civic values that promote well-being. As in the case of academic subjects, questioning and understanding values and the learning that results are crucial for our children’s future. The future of our society, too, depends on it.

TOPIC : Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in

human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.

Q) The existence of ethics entirely depends on our ability to choose. Critically Comment.

(250 words)

Reference

Why this question

Free will is an integral component of the philosophy of ethics. It is therefore essential to examine and understand the association between the two.

Key demand of the question

The question wants us to express our knowledge and understanding on the relationship between ethics and the free will. How is one important for the other.

Directive word

Critically Comment- here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon. Based on our discussion, we have to from a fair and a personal opinion on the issue.


Introduction- write a few lines defining ethics and free will.

Body–

Discuss the relationship between free will and ethics in the sense that they are organically and intrinsically linked. E.g If some have the ability to choose but others do not, then ethics is applicable to the world, but perhaps not as we know it. If nobody has the ability to choose, then ethics is inapplicable to the world. If everyone has the ability to choose, then the actions they choose to do can be good, evil or neither; this being in virtue of their ability to choose etc.

Discuss how ethics can exist aloof from free will. E.g discuss the concept of utilitarianism. Take the help of the article attached to the question and other relevant material to frame your answer.

Conclusion– Based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/03/6-the-existence-of-ethics-entirely-depends-on-our-ability-to-choose-critically-comment-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/03/6-the-existence-of-ethics-entirely-depends-on-our-ability-to-choose-critically-comment-250-words/

https://www.reddit.com/r/philosophy/comments/4vsmrz/ethics_and_free_will/


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Answer :-

For many philosophers, to believe in free will is to believe that human beings can be the authors of their own actions and to reject the idea that human actions are determined by external conditions or fate.

Existence of ethics entirely depends on the ability to choose. If everyone has the ability to choose, then ethics is applicable to the world. If some have the ability to choose but others do not, then ethics is applicable to the world, but perhaps not as we know it.

If nobody has the ability to choose, then ethics is inapplicable to the world.

If everyone has the ability to choose, then the actions they choose to do can be good, evil or neither, this being in virtue of their ability to choose. Thus the consequence of everyone being able to choose is explained.

If some have the ability to choose but not others, then the ones who have the ability to choose should treat the ones who do not with great care taking care not to hurt them if they are not dangerous, but to do what is necessary if they are. Thus the consequence of the second proposed condition is explained

If nobody has the ability to choose, then good and evil do not exist, because doing good or evil by definition depends on the ability to choose. If one is warned of a flood by the gradual rise in the tide, then whatever caused the rise in the tide did not do good, for it is not a conscious being with free will. However, if one is warned of a flood by another person (with free will), then that person obviously did good.

In all of these cases, the complete nonexistence of free will negates the applicability of the question. Likewise, the condition that everyone has free will justifies and confirms the applicability of each thing discussed. In two of the scenarios, if some have the ability for free will and others don’t, then the ones that don’t ought to be controlled in one way or another.

Ethics and morals can act as guidelines for behaviors whether or not free will exists. Ethics are at least partially innate i.e.., you don’t need any particular upbringing to experience moral indignation if someone takes your stuff. So however well your idea of free will jives with the concept of punishment, the former is not the cause of the latter. Rather, you want transgressors to be punished because that will, in the end, mean that there will be less transgressors.

Q) Buddhism goes on to develop its own ethical virtue by observing the self-discipline of

keeping certain moral precepts. Discuss. (250 words)

Reference

Directive word



The question wants us to write in detail about the moral/ethical precepts of Buddhism and discuss their meaning. We have to bring out how these self-disciplining moral precepts aim to create ethical virtues of Buddhism.


Introduction- write a few lines about the Buddhist ethics e.g Buddhist values are rooted in the project of overcoming greed/attachment, hatred and delusion, which are seen as the roots of unwholesome actions and the key causes of suffering. The 5 moral precepts propagated by Buddhism aim to counter greed/ attachment, hatred and delusion.

Body-

Discuss the 5 lay moral precepts developed by Buddhism-

to abstain from onslaught on breathing beings- to counter hatred.

to abstain from taking what is not given- to counter greed.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/17/6-buddhism-goes-on-to-develop-its-own-ethical-virtue-by-observing-the-self-discipline-of-keeping-certain-moral-precepts-discuss-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/17/6-buddhism-goes-on-to-develop-its-own-ethical-virtue-by-observing-the-self-discipline-of-keeping-certain-moral-precepts-discuss-250-words/

http://elibrary.ibc.ac.th/files/public/Peter%20Harvey%20-%20An%20Introduction%20to%20Buddhist%20Ethics~%20Foundations%2C%20Values%20and%20Issues.pdf


SECURE SYNOPSIS

to abstain from misconduct concerning sense-pleasures- to overcome attachment and delusion.

to abstain from false speech- to counter greed and hatred.

to abstain from alcoholic drink or drugs that are an opportunity for heedlessness- to counter delusion.

Mention that; Emphasis is sometimes laid on the need for a ‘middle way’ in keeping the precepts, avoiding the extremes of laxity and rigid adherence. Buddhism emphasizes a future-directed morality in which one always seeks to do better in the future, taking the precepts as ideals that one is seeking to live up to in an increasingly complete way. While each precept is expressed in negative wording, as an abstention, one who keeps them increasingly comes to express positive virtues as the roots of unwholesome action are weakened.

Conclusion- Based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.

Background:-

Buddhist tradition acknowledges that life is complex and throws up many difficulties, and it does not suggest that there is a single course of action that will be right in all circumstances. Indeed, rather than speaking of actions being right or wrong,

Buddhism speaks of the being skilful (kusala) or unskilful (akusala). In Triratna, our faith in the Three Jewels of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha finds everyday practical expression in our aspiration to live by ethical precepts, to the best of our ability.

Moral precepts of Buddhism:-The Five Precepts

Not killing or causing harm to other living beings:-

This is the fundamental ethical principle for Buddhism, and all the other precepts are elaborations of this. The precept implies acting non-violently wherever possible, and many Buddhists are vegetarian for this reason. The positive counterpart of this precept is love.

Not taking the not-given:-

Stealing is an obvious way in which one can harm others. One can also take advantage of people, exploit them, or manipulate them. All these can be seen as ways of taking the not given. The positive counterpart of this precept is generosity.

Avoiding sexual misconduct:–

Over the centuries different Buddhist schools have interpreted this precept in many ways, but essentially it means not causing harm to oneself or others in the area of sexual activity.

It includes avoiding breaking commitments in the area of sexual relations, and avoiding encouraging others to do the same. The positive counterpart of this precept is contentment.

Avoiding false speech:-

Speech is the crucial element in our relations with others, and yet language is a slippery medium, and we often deceive ourselves or others without even realising that this is what we are doing.

Truthfulness, the positive counterpart of this precept, is therefore essential in an ethical life. But truthfulness is not enough, and in another list of precepts (the ten precepts or the ten kusala dharmas) no fewer than four speech precepts are mentioned, the others enjoining that our speech should be kindly, helpful, and harmonious.

Abstaining from drink and drugs that cloud the mind:-

The positive counterpart of this precept is mindfulness, or awareness. Mindfulness is a fundamental quality to be developed the Buddha’s path, and experience shows that taking intoxicating drink or drugs tends to run directly counter to this.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

Buddhists hold that moral way of life, which is the Middle Way (majjihima magga), is the gateway to the highest and ultimate goal of all Buddhist aspiration (nibbdna).Emphasis is sometimes laid on the need for a ‘middle way’ in keeping the precepts, avoiding the extremes of laxity and rigid adherence.

Buddhism emphasizes a future-directed morality in which one always seeks to do better in the future, taking the precepts as ideals that one is seeking to live up to in an increasingly complete way. While each precept is expressed in negative wording, as an abstention, one who keeps them increasingly comes to express positive virtues as the roots of unwholesome action are weakened.

Each precept thus has a positive counterpart:-

The counterpart of the first is kindness and compassion

That of the second is generosity and renunciation: in Buddhist cultures, greed is strongly disapproved of, and generosity much praised.

The counterpart of the third is ‘joyous satisfaction with one’s own wife’, contentment and fewness-of-wishes. Contentment is seen as the ‘greatest of wealths’

The counterpart of the fourth precept is being honest, trustworthy and dependable and attaining precision of thought.

The counterpart of the fifth precept is mindfulness and awareness.

Closely related to keeping the precepts is the concept of ‘right livelihood’, a factor of the Eightfold Path .This refers to making one’s living in a way that does not involve one in habitually breaking the precepts by bringing harm to other beings, but that is, it is hoped, helpful to others and an aid to the development of one’s faculties and abilities.

Q) There are many ways that organizations can create a culture that supports and

nurtures ethics. Discuss. (250 words)

Reference

Directive word

Discuss- Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. We also have to discuss about the related and important aspects of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.


The question wants us to write in detail as to what are the ways in which organizations can create a culture that supports and nurtures ethics. We have to be as descriptive as possible (within the word limit).


Introduction- mention that an ethical organization is better positioned to win public trust, ensure a healthy participation of workers and work for the benefit of the society etc.

Body–

Discuss in points, how a culture of ethics can be created in an organization. E.g

Clear expectations for behavior among all members of an organization .

Modeling Desired Behavior (especially from organizational leaders)

Reinforce the Behavior You Want, and Don’t Reinforce the Behavior that You Don’t Want

Institutions must help with the step by step strategies for developing effective ethical decision making and behavior skills and strategies for resolving ethical dilemmas or troubles etc.




http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/31/7-there-are-many-ways-that-organizations-can-create-a-culture-that-supports-and-nurtures-ethics-discuss-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/31/7-there-are-many-ways-that-organizations-can-create-a-culture-that-supports-and-nurtures-ethics-discuss-250-words/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/do-the-right-thing/201507/six-ways-create-culture-ethics-in-any-organization


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Answer:-

Organizational ethics are the policies, procedures and culture of doing the right things in the face of difficult and often controversial issues.

Need for organizational ethics:-

Organization devoting resources to developing policies and procedures that encourage ethical actions builds a positive corporate culture.

Organizations have to retain consumer loyalty through ethical practices that start with fair and honest advertising methods and continue through the entire sales process.

Organizations that don’t develop policies on ethical standards risk financial liabilities

How to cultivate ethics in organisation:-

Clear expectations for behaviour among all members of an organization is the first step towards a more ethical organizational culture.

Any organizational leaders must be mindful that they are being watched very closely and that others in the organization will likely follow their lead when it comes to ethical behavior and attitudes.

Offering opportunities for recognition, awards, and social reinforcements for desirable ethical behaviors can go a long way to promote the types of ethical culture desired in any organization.

Workshops, easy to use reference materials, ongoing and readily available consultation from peers or mentors are just some of the many ways institutions can assist in training students and staff to best use the tools that are available to them to participate in better and more thoughtful ethical decision making.

Having an ethics ombudsman or point person for an organization can be especially valuable. They or their staff can provide a focal point for getting tools and resources to better help with ethical consultation.

Reinforcement for behaviour that is desired and corrective feedback for behaviour that is not desired is critical to help create and sustain a culture of ethical behavior and consideration.

Topic – Determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions

Q) Evaluate whether the economic theory of consumerism is ill suited for the human race?

(250 words)

Financial express

Why this question

Off late, we have seen that the world is suffering from a multitude of problems ranging from environmental degradation to racial tensions to social inequality. The article discusses the links between a materialistic outlook and these issues.


The question expects us to explain what consumerism is and highlight the implications of blindly adopting such an outlook. We need to discuss the views of important scholars who have highlighted the perils of excessive materialism and give our opinion on consumerism and its impacts.

Directive word

Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidences. You have to appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming a personal opinion here.


Introduction – Explain what consumerism is and how it differs from capitalism.

Body – Discuss the social (lack of empathy, inequality), economic(positive impact of consumerism as it is the driver of business), political (colonization etc), cultural (how it has affected music, art),



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/21/7-evaluate-whether-the-economic-theory-of-consumerism-is-ill-suited-for-the-human-race250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/21/7-evaluate-whether-the-economic-theory-of-consumerism-is-ill-suited-for-the-human-race250-words/

https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/world-is-consuming-resources-at-an-alarming-rate-far-quicker-than-our-planet-can-replenish/1285734/


SECURE SYNOPSIS

environmental and ethical impact of consumerism. Highlight the view of thinkers such as Gandhi who have held strong views against consumerism.

Conclusion – Give your opinion on the impacts of consumerism and the nature of change (if you think there should be) that is required in our mindset.

Consumerism is a socio-economic model, in which people buy and acquire goods and services, including luxury goods such as car, house, white goods, jewellery, etc.

Benefits:-

Consumerism is good for the economy, in light of the fact that it creates more economic action.

More demand for goods and services creates more activities to satisfy the demand, which gives rise to more manufacturing, more innovation, more research and more development. If there was no consumer, there would be no need for a market.

Criticism:-

Financial mechanisms have encouraged consumerism. The advent of credit cards allowed people to spend money that they did not have. Debit cards gave people quick access to more money than they were currently carrying and often the option of overdraft, as well.

Material wealth is the deciding factor about whether a society is highly developed or not. Spiritual values are underplayed.

Personal relationships also get affected as people are busy trying to earn more to maintain their standard of living.

Consumerism has also resulted in ecological imbalances. The natural habitat is being destroyed to create more goods and build more buildings affecting the weather. Consumerism is also depleting the natural resources of the respective country.

Gandhian principles and values favour a non-materialistic approach to life.

Psychological health also can get affected if one’s desires are not met such as depression.

TOPIC : Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems;

ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations

and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance;

strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international

relations and funding; corporate governance.

Q) How we deal with those excluded out of NRC will determine how humane our democracy

actually is. Comment. (250 words)

Indian express

Indian express

The hindu

Why this question

Updation of NRC and the consequent fate of those who do not find a mention in the hallowed list raises very important ethical questions and dilemmas for our democracy and government. These opinion all deal with the moral, practical and ethical challenges before us going forward and hence the issue needs to be prepared from a GS4 perspective as well.


The question expects us to explain what ethical and moral questions are raised by the entire debate, the security and historical concerns that the government has to be sensitive to, and how the current dilemma can be resolved.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/03/7-how-we-deal-with-those-excluded-out-of-nrc-will-determine-how-humane-our-democracy-actually-is-comment-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/03/7-how-we-deal-with-those-excluded-out-of-nrc-will-determine-how-humane-our-democracy-actually-is-comment-250-words/

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/assam-nrc-bjp-tmc-citizenship-sarbananda-sonowal-5289179

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/assam-nrc-draft-list-names-citizenship-5287213

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/to-what-end-this-exercise/article24575843.ece


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Directive word

Comment – When you are asked to comment, you have to pick main points and give your ‘opinion’ on them based on evidences or arguments stemming from your wide reading.


Introduction – Explain about NRC, give its brief history and mention that the issue has to be handled sensitively by looking at the various sides of the coin.

Body – Elucidate the various aspect of this issue which makes it so difficult. Discuss the vexed “foreigner question” that has been a matter of great contention in Assam. Discuss the historical demand for such a register and the government’s commitment while signing the Assam Accord.

Discuss the inevitability of immigration as long as the world remains a global village. Highlight the ethical aspects in this situation where the fate of so many families and persons are linked to finding their name in a list which has scope for administrative errors. Discuss how has the SC and MHA given assurance and what needs to be done going forward.

Conclusion – give your view on how should the government resolve this ethical dilemma.

Answer :-

History of NRC:-

Since Independence till 1971, when Bangladesh was created, Assam witnessed large-scale migration from East Pakistan that became Bangladesh after the war. Soon after the war on a treaty for friendship, co-operation and peace was signed between India and Bangladesh. The migration of Bangladeshis into Assam continued.

To bring this regular influx of immigrants to the notice of then government, the All Assam Students Union submitted a memorandum to Indira Gandhi in 1980 seeking her “urgent attention” to the matter. Subsequently, Parliament enacted the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, 1983.

On the other hand, Assam has been recurrently rocked by agitations against infiltrators. The student movement in the 1970s and 1980s was built around ethnic anxieties as it posited an Assamese versus non-Assamese divide

Issues with those who are excluded in NRC:-

At upwards of four million, the number of those excluded from the second draft of the National Register of Citizens published has sparked great anxiety about the legal status of so many individuals. So handling such an issue has to be done with utmost sensitivity.

The supposedly robust family tree verification process has resulted in numerous instances of parents being on the draft list but children being left out precisely the kinds of errors which were supposed to be excluded. Also the names of some of the elected representatives are also missing.

Also the people who are excluded from NRC face uncertain future for instance Bangladesh is not ready to accept them and even in India they might face resistance.

India has been known worldwide for its humanitarian approach towards refugees from different nations. This strengthened the image of India as democracy worldwide. So with respect to NRC government need to ensure that families are not torn apart, human rights of the people are upholded even if they are not included in NRC. So deportation is not a good idea to look at. There needs to be more clarity with the citizenship status for people in India.

Q) In the wake of the private sector playing an increasing role of providing public services,

it is essential to deal with corruption in private sector. Discuss how corruption in private

sector can be dealt with. (250 words)

Reference

Directive word

Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. We also have to discuss about the related and important aspects (if any) of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.



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https://darpg.gov.in/sites/default/files/ethics4.pdf


SECURE SYNOPSIS


The question wants us to write in detail about how corruption in private sector can be dealt with.


Introduction– write a few lines on the growing role of private sector in public service delivery. Mention that private sector does not come under the purview of the Prevention of Corruption Act. However, if the private sector (or any person engaged by them) is involved in bribing any public authority then he/she is liable to be punished for the offence of abetment of bribery under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Body-

Discuss in points, how corruption in private sector should be dealt with.

E.g Promoting cooperation between law enforcement agencies and relevant private entities; Promoting the development of standards and procedures designed to safeguard the integrity of relevant private entities; Promoting transparency among private entities, ; Preventing the misuse of procedures regulating private entities, including procedures regarding subsidies and licenses granted by public authorities for commercial activities; Preventing conflicts of interest by imposing restrictions, as appropriate and for a reasonable period of time, on the professional activities of former public officials or on the employment of public officials by the private sector after their resignation or retirement etc.


Answer :-

Corruption in the private sector can have deep and far-reaching consequences for an economy, and in an increasingly interconnected world, the entire globe.

Corruption distorts markets and creates unfair competition. Companies often pay bribes or rig bids to win public procurement contracts. Many companies hide corrupt acts behind secret subsidiaries and partnerships. Companies seek to influence political decision-making illicitly. Others exploit tax laws, construct cartels or abuse legal loopholes.

Private companies have huge influence in many public spheres. With respect to healthcare which is service corruption in healthcare sector can lead to devastating impact leading to huge loss of lives. Corruption in the Indian private sector has been highlighted in two reports prepared under the aegis of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) – interestingly, this particular UN agency deals with corporate corruption. High targets and tight deadlines, low orientation of the management’s focus on ethical issues along with a highly dynamic and competitive market are some of the reasons cited for corruption in the Indian business sector.

Most companies have a code of ethics, but there is very little adherence as they remain voluntary codes.

How to deal with corruption in private sector:-

Companies can take internal steps to prevent it. They need a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. And it must be enforced through specific anti-corruption measures.

But companies also need an honest operating environment. So we must make sure that governments enforce international anti-bribery laws and conventions. This protects companies from corruption across borders and down supply chains.

Legislative changes:-

India has no specific legislation addressing corruption in the private sector so there is a need for strengthening of existing laws and enactment of new legislation to, among other things, protect whistleblowers.

Contemplating an amendment in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) to include bribery as an offence within the private sector among other unethical and fraudulent practices being followed.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

It is important to include in legislation the requirement for companies beyond a certain threshold to have a whistleblower mechanism or some form of internal reporting channels of corruption, as well as some form of external audit.

Protection of witnesses, experts and victims is also a much required area that needs to be addressed

Legal provisions are needed by which there are reduced sanctions, punishments and penalties for self-disclosure or for cooperating with law enforcement during investigations, such as commercial and operational sanctions, legal sanctions, and reputational sanctions.

The UNODC calls for better sensitisation of personnel in privately-owned enterprises.

Q) There is a growing conflict on how public organizations try to balance competing or

conflicting values: classical governmental or bureaucratic values vs the businesslike

values. Comment. (250 words)

Reference

Directive word

Comment- here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.


The question wants us to express our knowledge and understanding on the conflicting values of the public organizations and how this conflicts manifest themselves in the public administration.

Structure of the answer’

Introduction- mention the increasing stress on the importance of being pro-business for the governments as well as the increasing need for regulation and control over the complex economic activities etc.

Body-

Discuss what are the conflicting values involved. Classical government/ Democratic values like integrity, neutrality, legality and impartiality on the one hand and ‘businesslike’ values such as efficiency, innovation, responsiveness and effectiveness on the other.

Discuss the three approaches to deal with such conflicts- universal approach, stakeholder approach, institutional perspective.

Mention the Stewart’s six strategies to manage tensions between competing public values: (1) ‘Cyclical’: attention to different values is distributed during the process; (2) ‘Firewalls’: in which the safeguarding of different values is distributed between different institutions; (3) Casuistry: gathering and consulting a taxonomy of specific cases where similar conflicts arose; (4) Hybridization: policies and practices, derived from different values, can coexist; (5) Incrementalism: conflicts are ‘softened’ through small, minor changes; (6) Bias: in which, dependent on the dominant discourse, preference is given to certain values.

Conclusion– Conclusion- Based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.

Answer:

Value conflicts are prevalent, the public context can be characterized by value pluralism and instrumental rationality does not seem to be the most useful to understand or improve value conflicts in public governance. There is tremendous stress on the importance of being pro-business for the governments as well as the increasing need for regulation and control over the complex economic activities etc.

The conflicting values involved are Classical government/ Democratic values like integrity, neutrality, legality and impartiality on the one hand and ‘businesslike’ values such as efficiency, innovation, responsiveness and effectiveness on the other.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/18/7-there-is-a-growing-conflict-on-how-public-organizations-try-to-balance-competing-or-conflicting-values-classical-governmental-or-bureaucratic-values-vs-the-businesslike-values-comment-250-words/



https://zegervanderwal.com/zeger/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/PMR_2011_Competing_Values_in_Public_Management_Editorial.pdf


SECURE SYNOPSIS

The universal approach takes as a starting point that public values are given and absolute and therefore have to be protected by government. Trade-offs between public values are perceived as a zero-sum situation in which protecting one value comes at the expense of protecting another .To protect and safeguard public values formal laws and control mechanisms are employed. This rather hierarchical approach brings forth multiple problems due to its inflexibility.

The stakeholder approach views both the establishment as well as the meaning of public values not as static and absolute, but as a political process between the actors involved. The importance and meaning of public values is negotiated.

According to the institutional perspective the institutional context influences the choice for specific values and the way we attribute meaning to them. Public values are neither universal nor do they derive their meaning from just negotiation processes. With regard to the safeguarding of public values, the institutional perspective does not accept a generic model for 6 safeguarding but assumes that the question how public values should be safeguarded, is dependent on institutional practice and the value systems involved.

Tensions between competing public values often lead to intentional or sometimes unintentional deviant behaviour, because pressures simply overwhelm managers and employees, or they see no other way to cut corners to realize one value at the cost of acting with integrity. competing values may lead to misguided or short-sighted decisions, simply because an official is not equipped to deal with the tensions that are a result of the experienced competition.

Stewart recently described six strategies to manage tensions between competing public values:

(1) ‘Cyclical’: attention to different values is distributed during the process

(2) ‘Firewalls’: in which the safeguarding of different values is distributed between different institutions

(3) Casuistry: gathering and consulting a taxonomy of specific cases where similar conflicts arose

(4) Hybridization: policies and practices, derived from different values, can coexist

(5) Incrementalism: conflicts are ‘softened’ through small, minor changes

(6) Bias: in which, dependent on the dominant discourse, preference is given to certain values.

TOPIC : Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics,

Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds,

challenges of corruption. Case Studies on above issues.

Q) Discuss the difference between the code of ethics and the code of conduct. (250 words)

Reference

Reference

Why this question

Both of these are important concept which share some similarities and several differences which need to be discussed upon.

Directive word

Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question.


The question wants us to simply bring out in detail the differences between the Code of Ethics and the Code of Conduct.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/22/7-discuss-the-difference-between-the-code-of-ethics-and-the-code-of-conduct-250-words/

https://www.whistleblowersecurity.com/code-of-ethics-and-code-of-conduct-whats-the-difference/

https://keydifferences.com/difference-between-code-of-ethics-and-code-of-conduct.html


SECURE SYNOPSIS


Introduction- Mention that both Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct are similar as they are used in an attempt to encourage specific forms of behaviour by employees. However, the two have several differences between them.

Body-

Discuss the differences between the two. E.g define both the terms in order to clarify their meaning.

An aspirational document, issued by the higher level management/ board of directors containing core ethical values, principles and ideals of the organization is Code of Ethics while as a directional document containing specific practices and behavior, that are followed or restricted under the organization is Code of Conduct; the former is general and wide in nature while as the later is specific and narrow in range; COE governs decision making while as COC governs actions; Code of Conduct are originated from the code of ethics, and it converts the rules into specific guidelines, that must be followed by the members of the organisation; COE is focussed on values and principles while as COC is focussed on compliance and rules etc.

Conclusion- sum up your discussion in a few lines and form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the above issue.

Answer:-

Codes of ethics, which govern decision-making, and codes of conduct, which govern actions, represent two common ways that companies or organisations self-regulate.

Code of Ethics:

Code of ethics is a written set of rules issued by an organization to its workforces and management to help them conduct their actions in accordance with its primary values and ethical standards

It defines the minimum requirements for conduct, and behavioural expectations instead of specific activities.

For example if an organization is committed to protecting the environment and “being green”, the Code of Ethics will state that there is an expectation for any employee faced with a problem, to choose the most “green” solution.

When faced with ethical dilemmas or debatable situations, what’s articulated in the Code of Ethics can help guide decision making.

Code of Conduct:

Codes of conduct represents the set of enforceable rules that should be followed by a person in an organisation. Codes, along with other measures, have helped some companies dig themselves out of scandals, and have helped many companies build a healthier work climate and reputation.

A Code of Conduct applies the Code of Ethics to a host of relevant situations. A particular rule in the Code of Ethics might state that all employees will obey the law, a Code of Conduct might list several specific laws relevant to different areas of organizational operations, or industry, that employees need to obey.

The Code of Conduct outlines specific behaviours that are required or prohibited as a condition of ongoing employment. It might forbid sexual harassment, racial intimidation or viewing inappropriate or unauthorized content on company computers.

Differences:

Both are used in an attempt to regulate behavior in very different ways.

Ethical standards generally are wide-ranging and non-specific, designed to provide a set of values or decision-making approaches that enable employees to make independent judgments about the most appropriate course of action.

Conduct standards generally require little judgment

Code of ethics is a set of principles which influence the judgement while the Code of conduct is a set of guidelines that influence employee’s actions.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

The scope of code of ethics is wider than that of code of conduct

Code of Ethics is general in nature, whereas code of conduct is specific.

Code of Conduct are originated from the code of ethics, and it converts the rules into specific guidelines, that must be followed by the members of the organisation.

Lengthwise, code of ethics is a shorter document than a code of conduct.

Code of Ethics regulates the judgment of the organisation while a code of conduct regulates the actions.

Code of Ethics is publicly available, i.e. anyone can access it. Conversely, Code of Conduct is addressed to employees only.

Code of Ethics focuses on values or principles. On the other hand, Code of Conduct is focused on compliance and rules

Similarities:

Both a Code of Ethics and a Code of Conduct are similar as they are used in an attempt to encourage specific forms of behaviour by employees.

In both cases, the organization’s desire is to obtain a narrow range of acceptable behaviors from employees

Ethics guidelines attempt to provide guidance about values and choices to influence decision making. Conduct regulations assert that some specific actions are appropriate, others inappropriate.

Conclusion:-

Code of Conduct is actually extracted from the Code of Ethics. Therefore, the latter concept is wider than the former. Moreover, these codes are beneficial for businesses of any size and nature as the codes lays down direction which is helpful for employees, to behave in a particular manner and also making a public image of ethical behaviour.

Topic: Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and

governance

Q) Discuss the five components of emotional intelligence as proposed by Daniel Goleman.

(250 words)

Reference

Reference

Directive word



The question wants us to write in detail about the components of emotional intelligence as put forward by the famous author and science journalist, Daniel Goleman.


Introduction- Write a few lines about the importance of having a high emotional intelligence in our personal and professional lives.

Body-

Discuss in points the five components of emotional intelligence as put forward by Daniel Goleman. E.g

Self-awareness.

Self-regulation.



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/07/7-discuss-the-five-components-of-emotional-intelligence-as-proposed-by-daniel-goleman-250-words/

http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/07/7-discuss-the-five-components-of-emotional-intelligence-as-proposed-by-daniel-goleman-250-words/

http://inspirebusinesssolutions.com/blog/5-main-components-of-emotional-intelligence

https://www.verywellmind.com/components-of-emotional-intelligence-2795438


SECURE SYNOPSIS

Internal motivation.

Empathy.

Social Skills.

Explain the relevance of each of these components in determining the level of emotional intelligence of a person.


Answer :-

Emotional intelligence or EI is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those of the people around you. Emotional intelligence is the ability to perceive emotions, to access and generate emotions so as to assist thought, to understand emotions and emotional knowledge, and to reflectively regulate emotions so as to promote emotional and intellectual growth.

Five components of emotional intelligence :-

According to Daniel Goleman, an American psychologist who helped to popularize emotional intelligence, there are five key elements to it:

Self-awareness:-

The ability to recognize and understand personal moods and emotions and drives, as well as their effect on others.

Hallmarks of self-awareness include self-confidence, realistic self-assessment, and a self-deprecating sense of humour.

Emotional awareness: This deals with knowledge of one’s emotions and their effects. People having this competency are more aware of their feelings and performance.

Accurate self-assessment: This involves being aware of one’s strengths and weaknesses. One is open to feedbacks, new viewpoints, etc.

Self-confidence: This relates to complete affirmation of one’s worth and abilities. They are usually more confident and are able to make sound decisions despite any uncertainties or pressures

Self-regulation:-

Ability to control or redirect disruptive impulses and moods, and the propensity to suspend judgment and to think before acting. Hallmarks include trustworthiness and integrity; comfort with ambiguity; and openness to change.

Adaptability: This involves flexible attitude towards change. People with this competency find it easy to handle changing routines, multiple roles and even shifting priorities.

Innovativeness: This involves getting easy with and open to new information and ideas. People who possess this are able to gather new ideas from multiple sources, set challenging roles and are able to take calculated risks. They evolve original solutions to various problems.

Motivation:-

A passion to work for internal reasons that go beyond money and status -which are external rewards, – such as an inner vision of what is important in life, a joy in doing something, curiosity in learning, a flow that comes with being immersed in an activity

Empathy:-

The ability to understand the emotional makeup of other people. A skill in treating people according to their emotional reactions.

Empathy does not necessarily imply compassion. Empathy can be ‘used’ for compassionate or cruel behaviour. Serial killers who marry and kill many partners in a row tend to have great emphatic skills.




SECURE SYNOPSIS

Social skills:-

Proficiency in managing relationships and building networks, and an ability to find common ground and build rapport. Hallmarks of social skills include effectiveness in leading change, persuasiveness, and expertise building and leading teams.

Especially in administration emotional intelligence is necessary because:-

Social responsibility

When a leader cares about others, he is not a centre of attention and keeps everyone in the loop by making their intentions known.

Stress tolerance

To stay focused, stress should be managed and it involves own reactions to stress or the reactions of others to the stress.

Impulse control

Independent people evaluate the alternatives and initiate the work by taking appropriate action by executing the right options. People who manage their impulses avoid being distracted and losing control of the situation.

Optimism

Optimistic people have a target that they’re aiming toward. These people are confident in their ability to carry out the required actions and meet the target by looking for successful solutions to problems.

Topic: Case studies on Ethics.

Q) You are a jurist deciding an ethical case involving allegations that, Mrs. Sandy Tyson

had helped her husband obtain a University fellowship to which he was not entitled. She

is a former employee of the University. Mrs. Tyson is an African-American black lady

married to Mike Tyson and both have denied the allegations and termed them as racist

and baseless.

What are the ethical issues involved here ?

What will be your decision ? (250 words)

Reference


Same as mentioned in syllabus- This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society.

Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects.


The question involves both legal as well as ethical issues. The legal aspect will be determined by the level of involvement of Mrs Sandy Tyson- how she managed to influence the award. She may have thereby violated any law, statute , code of conduct which would necessitate legal action against her. The ethical aspect involved is that of the conflict of interest and also misuse of the office.

After discussing the issues in detail, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the issue. Be considerate to all the the key facts of the case and form an opinion accordingly.

Answer:-

The case study deals with the situation of one doing their job with probity .The stake holders are Sandy, Mike, Jurist and the University .



http://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/08/01/7-you-are-a-jurist-deciding-an-ethical-case-involving-allegations-that-mrs-sandy-tyson-had-helped-her-husband-obtain-a-university-fellowship-to-which-he-was-not-entitled-she-is-a-forme/






http://www.hartfordbusiness.com/article/20180731/NEWS01/180739991


SECURE SYNOPSIS

The ethical issues involved are :-

The allegation is that Mr. Mike Tyson was not entitled to that particular university fellowship but yet due to his wife’s influence he obtained that fellowship so here there is lack of probity with respect to the employee.

Also the ethical issue is whether Mrs. Tyson has misused her position to gain unfair advantage for her husband so it is an act of nepotism vs whether the fellowship was given to her husband due to merit.

Also whether the allegation that both Mr and Mrs Tyson are racially discriminated.

Lack of transparency and accountability in the process of giving fellowship.

The following are the decisions that can be taken :-

Being a jurist it is my duty to find out the truth and uphold justice. So there is need to order for proper enquiry to find out whether the fellowship was awarded solely on merit and whether due process was followed or Mr. Tyson was awarded the fellowship due to Mrs. Tyson’s influence.

Also regarding the allegations made by Mr. Tyson and Mrs. Sandy that the allegations are made against them due to her being African American. Both her and her husband are subjected to racial discrimination. So these allegations need to be enquired properly with an independent committee and then decisions need to be taken.

If in the enquiry it is found out that Mrs. Tyson is guilty of misusing her position in the university to get her husband the fellowship then Mr.Tyson’s fellowship need to be cancelled and Mrs.Sandy need to be punished for the action she did.



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