Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Conscience is the internal moral compass that helps individuals differentiate right from wrong. While some consider it an infallible guide to ethical conduct, others argue that it is shaped by social, cultural, and institutional conditioning.

Body

Conscience as an Infallible Guide:

• Innate Moral Sense: Philosophers like Immanuel Kant argue that conscience is an inherent faculty guiding moral actions based on reason and universal principles.
  • Similarly, John Rawls' Theory of Justice emphasizes fairness and the "original position" concept, where moral and just principles are chosen behind a "veil of ignorance", ensuring impartiality and equity in decision-making.
• Unbiased Ethical Judgment: A well-developed conscience enables civil servants to act with integrity, resisting external pressures like corruption and political influence.
• Examples from Administration:
  • E. Sreedharan’s leadership in the Delhi Metro project showcases unwavering ethical commitment despite bureaucratic challenges.
  • Ashok Khemka’s stand against corruption reflects adherence to an internal moral code despite systemic pressures.
  • T.N. Seshan showcases moral courage in resisting political influence.

Conscience as a Product of Social Conditioning:

• Influence of Cultural and Social Norms: Values imbibed from family, education, and society shape an individual’s moral outlook.
  • A civil servant raised in a system tolerant of nepotism may unconsciously justify favoritism.
• Institutional and Professional Environment: Bureaucratic culture, political influences, and peer behavior often condition ethical decision-making.

Balancing Conscience and Ethical Frameworks in Civil Services:

• Codified Ethics and Laws: Civil servants should align their conscience with constitutional values, legal frameworks (e.g., Conduct Rules), and institutional ethics.
• Training and Ethical Orientation: Regular training on professional ethics (e.g., through the LBSNAA and Mission Karmayogi) helps refine conscience in line with democratic and humanitarian principles.
  • It should also include Cognitive biases awareness programmes.
• Moral Courage and Reflection: A well-informed conscience, combined with self-reflection and peer discussions, ensures ethical decision-making beyond personal biases.

Conclusion

“There is no pillow as soft as a clear conscience” - Glen Campbell. While conscience is a critical guide to ethical conduct, it is not entirely infallible due to social conditioning. For civil servants, professional ethics must be shaped by constitutional morality, public service values, and continuous ethical training rather than personal or societal biases.