Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Aristotle's assertion that happiness is the activity of the soul in accordance with virtue underscores the intrinsic link between ethical conduct and human fulfillment.

• In the context of public service, this philosophy delves into the relationship between virtue, character, and happiness.

Body

Virtue in Public Service:

Virtue, as defined by Aristotle, is an excellence of character, a disposition to behave in the right way. In the context of public service, it manifests as a constellation of qualities like:

• Integrity: Upholding moral and ethical principles, even in the face of adversity. For instance, IAS officer Durga Shakti Nagpal's 2013 crackdown on illegal sand mining in Uttar Pradesh, despite facing political backlash
• Impartiality: Treating all citizens and stakeholders fairly, without bias or prejudice. The implementation of various social welfare schemes, such as the Former Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan's reforms in the 1990s, including strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct.
• Objectivity: Making decisions based on evidence and reason, rather than personal opinions or emotions. The Bhilwara Model of Coping with Covid-19, demonstrating the importance of objectivity in crisis management.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others. The success of various government initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized sections of society, such as the IAS officer Armstrong Pame, exemplified empathy by building a 100-km road in Manipur in 2012 without government funds, connecting remote villages to vital services.

Character Building and Public Service

Character, the sum total of a person's moral and ethical qualities, is shaped by a complex interplay of factors including upbringing, education, and life experiences.

• Leadership by Example: Senior civil servants serve as role models for their subordinates. Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam continued teaching and inspiring youth even after his presidency, embodying lifelong learning and service
• Continuous Learning: A strong character is built through lifelong learning. The government's initiatives to promote capacity building among civil servants, such as the Mission Karmayogi, reflect the recognition of the need for continuous learning and development.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Public service is often fraught with ethical dilemmas. How individuals respond to these challenges shapes their character. Delhi Police Man Raj Singh in case held his duty first, helped arrest his own son who stabbed a woman.

Happiness and Fulfillment in Public Service

While happiness is not the primary objective of public service, it is a natural corollary of virtuous action and character development. Public servants who are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference are more likely to experience job satisfaction.

Interplay of Virtue, Character, and Happiness in Public Service:

• Virtue as the Foundation of Character and Happiness: Virtue serves as the bedrock for character development.
  • As individuals in public service cultivate these virtues, their character strengthens, enabling them to make ethical decisions and serve the public interest effectively.
  • This, in turn, contributes to a sense of fulfillment and happiness derived from meaningful work.
• Character as the Bridge Between Virtue and Happiness: Character, shaped by both innate qualities and experiences, is the practical manifestation of virtue.
  • A strong character allows public servants to translate their values into actions, fostering a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
  • By consistently adhering to ethical principles, individuals build a strong reputation and contribute to a positive work environment, enhancing overall well-being.
• Happiness as the Culmination of Virtuous Character: While not the primary objective, happiness is a natural outcome of a life well-lived in public service.
  • When individuals align their actions with their values and make a positive impact on society, they experience a deep sense of fulfillment and contentment.
  • This happiness is reinforced by the respect and admiration of colleagues and the community.

Conclusion

The interplay between virtue, character, and happiness is a dynamic and multifaceted process. In the context of public service, it is a journey of continuous learning, growth, and fulfillment. By cultivating virtue, building strong character, and finding meaning in their work, public servants can contribute significantly to the overall well-being of society.