Questions and Model Answers of GS4(Ethics) UPSC Mains Exam 2021

Q1. (a) Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix.

Q1. (b)   Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the /ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in the public servants.

Q2. (a)   Impact of digital technology as reliable source of input for rational decision making is debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable example.

Q2. (b)  Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with suitable example.

Q3. What does each of the following quotations mean to you?

Q3. (a) “Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later. -Swami Vivekananda

Q3. (b) “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves.” – Dalai Lama

Q3. (c) Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that it is better for us all.” -Erik Erikson

Q4. (a) Attitude is an important component that goes as input in the development of human being. How to build a suitable needed for a public servant.

Q4. (b) In case of crisis of conscience does emotional intelligence help to overcome the same without compromising the ethical or moral stand that you are likely to  follow? Critically examine.

Q5. (a) “Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face persecution or human right violation.” Examine the statement with reference to ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with open society.

Q5. (b) Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered as indispensable qualities to make a successful civil servant? Discuss with illustrations.

Q6. (a) An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability, and ethical conduct. Elaborate.

Q6. (b)  “Integrity is a value that empowers the human being.” Justify with suitable illustration.