UPSC Mains 2013

What do you understand by ‘Values’ and ‘Ethics’? In what way is it important to be ethical along with being professionally competent?

(a) What do you understand by the following terms in the context of public service? a. Integrity b. Perseverance c. Spirit of Service d. Commitment e. Courage of Conviction (b) Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service. Justify your answer.

Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due justification.

What is ‘emotional intelligence’ and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions?

(a) What do you understand by the term ‘voice of conscience’? How do you prepare yourself to heed to the voice of conscience? (b) What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? Narrate one incident in your life when you were faced with such a crisis and how you resolved the same.

Given below are three quotations of great moral thinkers/philosophers. For each of these quotations, bring out what it means to you in the present context: (a) “There is enough on this earth for every one’s need but for no one’s greed.” -Mahatma Gandhi (b) “Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” - Abraham Lincoln. (c) “I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his enemies.” - Aristotle

“The good of an individual is contained in the good of all.” what do you understand by this statement? How can this principle be implemented in public life?

It is often said that ‘politics’ and ‘ethics do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustration. PRINT PDF PRINT THIS ARTICLE