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UPSC CSE Mains 2024 — Ethics Questions with Answers

All 7 Ethics previous-year questions from UPSC CSE Mains 2024, each with the correct answer and a full explanation. Practise them as a free, timed mock test with instant scoring.

1. Q1.Civil Service Values

   (a) The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view. (b) "Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individuals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour." Explain the key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions. Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context.

2. Q2.Ethics & Human Interface

   (a) "It is not enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it; and it is not enough to believe in it, one must act upon it." In the present context, the major weapon industries of the developed nations are adversely influencing the continuation of a number of wars for their own self-interest all around the world. What are the ethical considerations of the powerful nations in today's international arena to stop continuation of ongoing conflicts? (b) Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment?

3. Q3.Moral Thinkers

   Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context? (a) "Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it; do not become others." - Swami Vivekananda. (b) "Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work." - Sardar Patel. (c) "In law, a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics, he is guilty if he only thinks of doing so." - Immanuel Kant.

4. Q4.Ethics & Human Interface

   (a) "The concept of Just and Unjust is contextual. What was just a year back may turn out to be unjust in today's context. Changing context should be constantly under scrutiny to prevent miscarriage of justice." Examine the above statement with suitable examples. (b) "Mindless addiction to Form, ignoring the Substance of the matter, results in rendering of injustice. A perceptive civil servant is one who ignores such literalness and carries out true intent." Examine the above statement with suitable illustrations.

5. Q5.Probity in Governance

   (a) The 'Code of Conduct' and 'Code of Ethics' are the sources of guidance in public administration. There is a code of conduct already in operation, whereas a code of ethics is not yet put in place. Suggest a suitable model for a code of ethics to maintain integrity, probity and transparency in governance. (b) The soul of the new law, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), is Justice, Equality and Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of the major shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system.

6. Q6.Probity in Governance

   (a) "In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been steadily increasing over the years." Examine the gender-specific challenges faced by female public servants and suggest suitable measures to increase their efficiency in discharging their duties and maintaining high standards of probity. (b) Mission Karmayogi is aiming for maintaining a very high standard of conduct and behaviour to ensure efficiency for serving citizens and in turn developing oneself. How will this scheme empower the civil servants in enhancing productive efficiency and delivering services at the grassroots level?

7. Q7.Ethics & Human Interface

   Sneha is a Senior Manager working for a big reputed hospital chain in a mid-sized city. She has been made in-charge of the new super-speciality centre that the hospital is building with state-of-the-art equipment and world-class medical facilities. The building has been reconstructed and she is starting the procurement process for various equipment and machines. As head of the procurement committee, she invited bids from all interested reputed vendors dealing in medical equipment. She notices that her brother, a well-known supplier in this domain, has also sent his expression of interest. Since the hospital is privately owned, it is not mandatory for her to select only the lowest bidder. She is also aware that her brother's company has been facing financial difficulties and a big supply order will help him recover. At the same time, allocating the contract to her brother might bring charges of favouritism and tarnish her image. The hospital management trusts her fully and would support any decision of hers. (a) What should be Sneha's course of action? (b) How would she justify what she chooses to do? (c) In this case, how is medical ethics compromised with vested personal interest?