Mains Practice Questions

Q. "Ethical leadership often requires making difficult decisions that may be unpopular in the short term but beneficial in the long run." Discuss this statement with relevant examples. (150 words)

Case Study

You are the Superintendent of Police in a district known for its complex social dynamics and occasional communal tensions. Recently, a prominent religious leader from the majority community was arrested for alleged hate speech against minority groups. The arrest, though legally justified, has sparked widespread protests and unrest among his followers, who claim it's a politically motivated action.

As tensions escalate, you receive intelligence that a group of extremists is planning to vandalize minority-owned businesses and places of worship in retaliation. Your sources suggest that arresting the key instigators before they act could prevent the violence. However, you also learn that one of the main orchestrators is the son of a powerful state minister. Your immediate superior, the Inspector General, subtly hints that proceeding with these preventive arrests might negatively impact your career prospects, suggesting instead to increase general police presence and deal with any incidents "as they occur."

As the clock ticks and tensions rise, you must make a decision that balances your duty to maintain law and order, your career aspirations, and the complex social dynamics of your district.

1. Who are the key stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this situation?

3. What will be your course of action, considering the potential risks to public safety, political pressure, and your ethical responsibility.

Q. Explain the concept of "negative responsibility" in ethics. How does it challenge traditional views of moral responsibility? (150 words)

Q. Climate change threatens to exacerbate global inequalities and create new ethical dilemmas around resource allocation. How should nations balance their own interests with global responsibilities in addressing this crisis? Examine the ethical principles that should guide international climate action. (150 words)

Case Study

You are the newly appointed CEO of a struggling public sector enterprise tasked with its turnaround. The company's inefficiency stems from overstaffing and outdated practices. Your analysis shows that laying off 30% of the workforce and implementing modern management techniques could make the company profitable within two years. However, this would cause significant hardship for the employees and their families in a region already facing high unemployment.

The government, while officially supporting reforms, has privately indicated they want to avoid layoffs before the upcoming elections. You must decide whether to proceed with the layoffs and reforms, knowing it's the best path for the company’s long-term viability but at the cost of short-term social and political ramifications. The case highlights the tension between professional ethics, political pressures, and personal moral values in a post-bureaucratic setting where traditional hierarchies and rules offer less guidance.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?

2. What ethical dilemmas do you encounter in making this decision?

3. What steps will you take to address the situation while balancing competing interests?

Q. The concept of 'ethical consumerism' places moral responsibility on individuals for their consumption choices. Discuss the potential and limitations of this approach in addressing global environmental challenges. (150 words)

Q "Resilience is not about putting up with something difficult, but about creatively adapting to challenging situations." Discuss (150 words)

Case Study

In a rural region near the Ganga river basin, the local economy has increasingly become dependent on sand mining for construction purposes. The local government has issued permits for sand mining in limited areas under strict regulations. However, illegal sand mining is rampant in the region, with powerful contractors exploiting local resources and creating environmental degradation. Many contractors extract sand in excess of permitted limits and from non-designated areas, severely affecting the river's flow, local biodiversity, and nearby agricultural lands.

During your inspection visit as a district official, you observe large-scale illegal sand mining activities despite the presence of regulatory bodies. Upon questioning, the workers claim they are employed by a registered contractor operating within the limits. However, you notice heavy machinery being used in restricted areas. Villagers complain that illegal mining is damaging their fields, causing erosion, and affecting water availability. Moreover, you learn that the local administration is allegedly turning a blind eye to the issue due to the involvement of influential political figures.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. Bring out and discuss the ethical issues involved in the above case.

3. What steps would you take to address the situation as a district official?

Q. "Attitude shapes behavior, while aptitude determines capability." Analyze this statement in light of ethical governance. (150 words)

Q. Analyze the concept of "ethical fading" in organizational contexts. How can public institutions guard against this phenomenon and maintain high ethical standards over time? (150 words)

Case Study

You are a senior officer in a state government responsible for overseeing appointments to key public positions. Recently, the government has initiated a recruitment process for a high-ranking post in the education department, critical for implementing the state's education reforms. The selection committee has shortlisted two candidates. One is highly qualified with an impeccable track record, but they have been vocal in criticizing some government policies. The second candidate is less experienced but enjoys strong political backing and is perceived as loyal to the ruling party.

You are aware that the first candidate could significantly contribute to the education sector's growth due to his expertise, but his independent stance might lead to friction with the political leadership. On the other hand, selecting the second candidate could ensure smoother relations with the political leadership but may compromise the quality of governance. Your decision will have a lasting impact on the state's education policy and its future outcomes.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What are ethical dilemmas in this case and what principles will guide your decision in this scenario?

3. How would you balance professional competence and political considerations in making a fair and just decision?

Q. Explain the concept of ‘empathy fatigue' in public service. How can administrators maintain empathy while dealing with constant exposure to societal problems? (150 words)

Q. Integrity and transparency are often cited as pillars of good governance. Discuss how these principles can sometimes conflict in real-world scenarios. (150 words)

Case Study

You are the district collector of a region known for its rich biodiversity and tribal communities. A major pharmaceutical company has approached the government with a proposal to establish a research facility in your district. The company claims they have discovered a rare plant species in the local forest that could potentially lead to a breakthrough in cancer treatment. They are offering significant economic benefits, including job creation and infrastructure development. However, the proposed location for the facility would require clearing a portion of the forest that is considered sacred by the local tribal community and is home to several endangered species.

The tribal leaders have expressed strong opposition to the project, citing their ancestral rights and the cultural significance of the land. Environmental activists are also protesting, warning about the potential ecological damage. On the other hand, many locals see this as an opportunity for employment and development in the economically backward region. As the district collector, you must decide whether to recommend approval for the project or reject it. Your decision will have far-reaching consequences for the local economy, environment, and cultural heritage of the tribal community.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What ethical dilemmas do you face as the district collector in deciding whether to approve or reject the pharmaceutical company’s proposal?

3. What approach would you take to resolve this conflict, considering the competing interests of economic development, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation?

Q. "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference in ethical leadership." Comment on this statement in the context of public administration. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the concept of moral particularism. How does it challenge traditional rule-based ethical frameworks? (150 words)

Case Study

As the event coordinator for the upcoming Global Sustainable Development Summit in New Delhi, you face a complex challenge. The summit, scheduled to host a large number of world leaders and delegates from countries across the globe, aims to address critical issues of climate change, poverty alleviation, and technological innovation. However, just two weeks before the event, widespread protests have erupted across the city regarding the proposed sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). The protesters, numbering in the thousands, have blocked major roads and are threatening to disrupt the summit, citing it as an opportunity to bring international attention to their cause. Your team has received intelligence reports suggesting that some protest groups may attempt to infiltrate the summit venue or target the delegates' accommodations.

Additionally, there are concerns about the potential involvement of groups with vested interests who may seek to damage the relevant infrastructure. As the person in charge, you must ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees while maintaining the summit's integrity and schedule. The summit's success is vital for India's international reputation and for progressing global sustainable development goals.

1. Who are the key stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What immediate steps will you take to ensure the summit’s security and smooth execution?

3. What contingency plans will you have in place if the protests escalate?

Q. How does the idea of 'moral agency' influence the responsibility of individuals in positions of power? (150 words)

Q. Examine the ethical significance of 'intent' versus 'outcome' in public service. How should civil servants weigh these factors in decision-making? (150 words)

Case Study

A recent tragic incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at the State-run College and Hospital has sparked nationwide protests. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency medical services to protest against this incident and the subsequent vandalism at the hospital. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of healthcare workers, particularly women, within medical institutions.

As the newly appointed District Magistrate of the area where the incident occurred, you are faced with a complex situation involving public outrage, law and order, and the provision of essential healthcare services.

1. Identify the ethical dilemmas posed by the IMA’s decision to withdraw non-emergency medical services in response to the incident.

2. Propose a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of healthcare workers while ensuring that patient care is not compromised during such protests.

3. Evaluate the role of leadership in managing the crisis, ensuring accountability, and restoring public trust in the healthcare system.

Case Study

You are the District Collector of a rural district with a high rate of female illiteracy and child marriage. A new government scheme has been launched to provide financial incentives to families who keep their daughters in school until age 18. However, implementation has been challenging due to deeply entrenched cultural norms.

Recently, you have received reports that some families are falsely claiming the incentives while still marrying off their daughters early. You must carefully analyze the situation, balance competing interests and take adequate steps to resolve this issue.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?
2. What actions will you take regarding effective implementation of the scheme and address other immediate social challenges?
3. What long-term strategies can be implemented to sustain the impact of the scheme and changing societal attitudes towards female education and child marriage?

Q. Discuss the ethical significance of the 'Golden Mean' How can this concept be applied to achieve balance in public policy decisions? (150 words)

Q. What is the 'ethics of care'? Contrast it with traditional ethical theories and discuss its significance in public administration. (150 words)

Case Study

You are the Superintendent of Police (SP) in a rapidly urbanizing city facing significant infrastructure challenges. An intense monsoon has overwhelmed the city’s drainage system, leading to widespread waterlogging. While coordinating relief efforts, you receive an urgent distress call about a gym in the basement of a high-rise building in a posh locality.

The heavy rainfall and inadequate water management have caused water to break through the gym's door, flooding the basement and rapidly rising. Reports indicate that several people are trapped inside. The situation is further aggravated by panic among the building's residents and a growing crowd outside. The scenario is critical, necessitating immediate action to carry out rescue operations, prevent further property damage, and ensure public safety. As the SP, you must efficiently coordinate rescue efforts, assess the evolving situation, and implement measures to mitigate the impact of the waterlogging.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What will be your immediate course of action to manage the rescue operations and ensure public safety?

3. What long-term measures can be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future?

Q. 'The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated’.- Mahatma Gandhi
Discuss the ethical dimensions of animal welfare in the context of India's socio-cultural and economic realities. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the role of emotions in moral decision-making. Are emotions a hindrance or a help to ethical reasoning? (150 words)

Case Study

You are the head coach of a state football team preparing for the National Cup finals. Two days before the final match, you witness your star striker, who is crucial to the team's strategy and morale, using a performance-enhancing drug. This drug is undetectable by current testing methods. On confronting him, he expresses deep remorse and begs you not to report him, as it would end his career and possibly result in stripping the team of all their tournament victories.

As you grapple with this revelation, you realize the magnitude of your decision. Playing him risks the integrity of the sport and your personal ethics, but benching or reporting him could cost your nation its first-ever National Cup title. The hopes of fans rest on this match, and the economic impact of winning would be significant for your state. You must decide quickly whether to play him, bench him with a cover story, or report the violation to the authorities, knowing each choice carries profound consequences for the player, the team, and the sport itself.

1. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this situation?

2. As the head coach, what would be your immediate course of action and why?

3. How can the current system of monitoring and preventing the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports be improved to address situations like this in the future?

Q. “Happiness is the activity of the soul in accordance with virtue.” - Aristotle
Discuss the relationship between virtue, character, and happiness in the context of public service.(150 words)

Q.Discuss the relationship between law and ethics. How do they complement and conflict with each other? (150 words)

Case Study

You are the captain of a space exploration mission to Mars. Six months into the journey, a critical life support system malfunctions. After careful analysis, your engineer determines that the system can be repaired, but it requires a specialized part that can only be 3D printed using a rare material. There's enough of this material on board to either print the part or to continue producing essential medication for one of your crew members with a chronic condition.

If you choose to repair the life support system, all crew members will survive the journey, but the one crew member will likely suffer severe health complications. If you continue producing the medication, that crew member will remain stable, but the faulty life support system significantly increases the risk of mission failure and potential loss of all lives on board.

The crew member in question is your most experienced engineer, crucial for the mission's success on Mars. Earth is too far away to provide immediate assistance, and your decision must be made within 24 hours. Your choice will have profound implications for the mission, the lives of your crew, and potentially the future of space exploration.

1. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case?

2. How should a leader balance the ethical principles of non-maleficence and beneficence in this critical situation?

3. What lessons can be learned from this scenario to improve contingency planning and resource allocation?