Ethics & Aptitude Digital Explorer

UPSC Ethics & Aptitude Content Index

Module 1: Ethics and Human Interface

Topic 1.1: Essence, Determinants, and Consequences of Ethics in Human Actions

1.1.1: Essence of Ethics

• Definition & Scope: What is Ethics? Moral Philosophy.
• Origin of the Term: Greek 'Ethos' and Latin 'Mores'.
• Ethics vs. Morality: Nuances and distinctions.
• Ethics vs. Law: Overlap, divergence, limitations.
• Ethics vs. Values: Values as foundational beliefs.
• Key Branches of Ethics (Meta-ethics, Normative, Applied).
• Purpose and Significance of Ethics.

1.1.2: Determinants of Ethics in Human Actions

• Individual Determinants (Conscience, Upbringing, Free Will, Personality, Experiences).
• Societal Determinants (Culture, Religion, Law, Institutions, Public Opinion).
• Situational Determinants (Peer Pressure, Authority, Contextual Factors).

1.1.3: Consequences of Ethics in Human Actions

• For Individuals (Well-being, Character, Reputation).
• For Society (Cohesion, Justice, Rule of Law, Development, Corruption impact).
• For Governance (Trust, Efficiency, Legitimacy, Impact of Unethical Conduct).

Topic 1.2: Dimensions of Ethics

1.2.1: Private and Public Ethics

• Definition, Distinction, Inter-relationship, Relevance.

1.2.2: Normative, Descriptive, and Applied Ethics (Detailed)

• Descriptive Ethics.
• Normative Ethics (Deontology, Consequentialism, Virtue, Rights, Justice, Care).
• Applied Ethics (Bioethics, Environmental, Business, Cyber/AI).

Topic 1.3: Ethics in Private and Public Relationships

1.3.1: Ethical Challenges in Private Relationships

• Family, Friends, Employer-Employee, Doctor-Patient.

1.3.2: Ethical Challenges in Public Relationships

• Administrator-Citizen, Politician-Citizen, Bureaucracy-Society, Media-Society.

1.3.3: Conflict of Interest

• Definition, Types, Sources, Consequences, Management.

Topic 1.4: Human Values – Lessons from Great Leaders, Reformers, and Administrators

1.4.1: Mahatma Gandhi

• Ahimsa, Satyagraha, Sarvodaya, Trusteeship.

1.4.2: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Integrity, Decisiveness, National Unity.

1.4.3: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

• Justice, Equality, Fraternity, Constitutional Morality.

1.4.4: Abraham Lincoln

• Honesty, Integrity, Perseverance, Empathy.

1.4.5: Other Relevant Personalities (Indian & Global)

• Vivekananda, Tagore, Kalam, Mandela, Mother Teresa, etc.

Topic 1.5: Role of Family, Society, and Educational Institutions in Inculcating Values

1.5.1: Role of Family

• Primary Socialization, Value Transmission.

1.5.2: Role of Society

• Cultural Norms, Peer Influence, Media.

1.5.3: Role of Educational Institutions

• Curriculum, Teachers, NEP 2020.

Module 2: Attitude

Topic 2.1: Content, Structure, Function of Attitude

2.1.1: Definition and Components (ABC Model)

• Affective, Behavioral, Cognitive. Characteristics.

2.1.2: Structure of Attitude

• Unidimensional/Multidimensional, Factors.

2.1.3: Functions of Attitude

• Knowledge, Utilitarian, Ego-Defensive, Value-Expressive, Social Adjustive.

Topic 2.2: Its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behavior

2.2.1: Attitude-Behavior Consistency

• Factors, Theory of Planned Behavior.

2.2.2: Cognitive Dissonance Theory

• Definition, Causes, Reduction Methods.

Topic 2.3: Moral and Political Attitudes

2.3.1: Moral Attitude

• Definition, Development, Importance.

2.3.2: Political Attitude

• Definition, Formation, Neutrality vs. Partisanship.

Topic 2.4: Social Influence and Persuasion

2.4.1: Social Influence

• Conformity, Obedience, Compliance, Groupthink.

2.4.2: Persuasion

• Elements, Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM).

2.4.3: Role in Public Service and Behavioral Change

• Nudge Theory, Public Health Campaigns, Citizen Engagement.

Module 3: Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service

Topic 3.1: Aptitude for Civil Service

3.1.1: Definition and Importance

• Key Aptitudes (Analytical, Problem-solving, Decision-making).

3.1.2: Problem-Solving Skills

• Analytical, Critical, Creative, Structured Problem Solving.

3.1.3: Decision-Making Skills

• Rational, Ethical, Challenges (Biases, Bounded Rationality).

Topic 3.2: Foundational Values of Civil Service

3.2.1: Integrity

• Dimensions, Importance, Challenges.

3.2.2: Impartiality and Non-partisanship

• Distinction, Importance, Challenges.

3.2.3: Objectivity

• Basing decisions on facts and evidence.

3.2.4: Dedication to Public Service

• Commitment to citizen welfare.

3.2.5: Empathy, Tolerance, Compassion

• Towards weaker sections.

3.2.6: Courage of Conviction

• Standing by principles.

3.2.7: Perseverance and Resilience

• Navigating challenges.

Module 4: Emotional Intelligence

Topic 4.1: Concepts of Emotional Intelligence

4.1.1: Definition and Components

• Salovey & Mayer, Goleman's Model (Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Motivation, Empathy, Social Skills).

4.1.2: EQ vs. IQ

• Distinction and Interplay.

Topic 4.2: Utilities and Application in Administration and Governance

4.2.1: Enhancing Leadership and Teamwork

• Inspiring, Motivating, Collaboration.

4.2.2: Conflict Resolution and Negotiation

• Understanding emotional roots, de-escalation.

4.2.3: Stress Management and Resilience

• Managing personal stress, building resilience.

4.2.4: Improving Public Service Delivery

• Citizen-centric approach, handling difficult situations.

4.2.5: Disaster Management and Crisis Leadership

• Maintaining calm, empathizing with victims.

Module 5: Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers

Topic 5.1: Indian Moral Thinkers and Philosophers

5.1.1: Ancient Indian Thought

• Vedas, Upanishads, Gita, Buddhism, Jainism.

5.1.2: Kautilya's Arthashastra

• Rajdharma, Moral Governance.

5.1.4: Modern Indian Thinkers

• Roy, Vivekananda, Tagore, Aurobindo, Radhakrishnan.

Topic 5.2: Western and World Moral Thinkers

5.2.1: Ancient Greek Philosophy

• Socrates, Plato, Aristotle.

5.2.2: Enlightenment and Modern Philosophers

• Kant, Bentham, Mill, Locke, Rousseau.

5.2.3: Contemporary Thinkers

• Rawls, Nozick, Sen, Arendt, Gilligan.

Module 6: Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration

• Topic 6.1: Status and Problems of Ethical Governance
  • Subtopic 6.1.1: Ethical Landscape of Public Administration in India
    • Historical Context: Legacy of colonial administration, post-independence challenges.
    • Current Challenges: Corruption (petty, grand, systemic), red-tapism, apathy, lack of accountability, politicization of bureaucracy, lack of transparency.
    • Need for Ethical Governance: To ensure trust, efficiency, social justice, and sustainable development.
  • Subtopic 6.1.2: Public vs. Private Sector Ethics
    • Similarities: Honesty, integrity, fairness.
    • Differences:
      • Primary Motive: Public service (welfare) vs. Profit (shareholder value).
      • Accountability: Public vs. Shareholders/Board.
      • Scope of Impact: Broader societal vs. market/employees.
      • Transparency: Higher expectation in public sector.
      • Use of Discretion: Wider in public sector, requiring greater ethical sensitivity.
    • Inter-relationship: Public-private partnerships, regulatory ethics.
• Topic 6.2: Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in Government and Private Institutions
  • Subtopic 6.2.1: Corruption
    • Definition & Forms: Bribery, nepotism, favoritism, embezzlement, abuse of power, cronyism, speed money.
    • Types of Corruption: Petty, Grand, Systemic.
    • Causes: Economic (poverty, low wages), political (funding, populism), administrative (discretion, opacity, weak accountability), societal (tolerance for corruption).
    • Consequences: Economic (misallocation of resources, reduced investment), Social (inequality, erosion of trust), Political (instability, delegitimization), Ethical (moral decay).
    • Anti-Corruption Strategies: Legal (PCA, Lokpal), Institutional (CVC, CBI, CAG), Administrative (e-governance, transparency), Social (citizen vigilance, public awareness), International cooperation.
  • Subtopic 6.2.2: Nepotism, Favoritism, Patronage
    • Definition & Distinction: Preferential treatment based on family, friends, or political affiliation.
    • Impact: Undermines meritocracy, fairness, efficiency, and public trust.
  • Subtopic 6.2.3: Misuse of Discretionary Powers
    • Definition: Unjust or arbitrary use of powers granted by law.
    • Reasons for Misuse: Lack of clear guidelines, personal bias, political pressure, lack of oversight.
    • Safeguards: Rule of law, transparency, accountability mechanisms, ethical training.
  • Subtopic 6.2.4: Whistle-blowing
    • Definition: Disclosure of wrongdoing (illegal, immoral, illegitimate practices) by an employee or former employee.
    • Ethics of Whistle-blowing: Duty to disclose vs. duty of loyalty.
    • Challenges: Victimization, career damage, personal risk.
    • Protection Mechanisms: Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014 in India; need for robust implementation.
    • Role in promoting transparency and accountability.
  • Subtopic 6.2.5: Conflict of Interest in Administration and Business (Revisited in context of public service)
    • Detailed scenarios, specific to civil servants and corporate executives.
    • Strategies for prevention and management in both sectors.
• Topic 6.3: Laws, Rules, Regulations, and Conscience as Sources of Ethical Guidance
  • Subtopic 6.3.1: Legal Framework
    • Constitutional Morality: Guiding principles of the Indian Constitution.
    • Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (and amendments): Key provisions.
    • Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013: Powers, functions, jurisdiction.
    • Right to Information Act, 2005 (relevance to ethics).
    • IPC and CrPC provisions related to public servants.
    • Service Rules (e.g., Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964).
  • Subtopic 6.3.2: Administrative Rules and Regulations
    • Departmental Rules, Circulars, Office Memorandums.
    • Importance in ensuring procedural fairness and consistency.
    • Limitations: Can be rigid, not cover all situations, lead to red-tapism.
  • Subtopic 6.3.3: Conscience
    • Role: Inner moral compass, guide in ambiguous situations.
    • Limitations: Subjectivity, can be influenced by personal bias, needs to be informed by universal ethical principles and reason.
    • Importance of an 'Informed Conscience'.
  • Subtopic 6.3.4: Ethical Dilemmas (Application of Ethical Theories)
    • Definition: Situations where conflicting moral duties or principles make choosing a course of action difficult.
    • Common Dilemmas in Administration: Efficiency vs. Equity, Duty vs. Personal relationship, Confidentiality vs. Public interest, Law vs. Conscience.
    • Approaches to Resolving Dilemmas: Applying normative ethical theories (Deontology, Consequentialism, Virtue Ethics), stakeholder analysis, transparency test, publicity test.
• Topic 6.4: Accountability and Ethical Governance
  • Subtopic 6.4.1: Concept of Accountability
    • Definition: Obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and disclose the results in a transparent manner.
    • Types: Administrative, Political, Legal, Financial, Social.
    • Importance for Ethical Governance: Preventing misuse of power, promoting efficiency, building trust.
  • Subtopic 6.4.2: Mechanisms of Accountability
    • Internal Mechanisms: Hierarchy, supervision, performance appraisal, vigilance units, internal audits.
    • External Mechanisms:
      • Legislative: Parliament, Public Accounts Committee.
      • Judicial: Judicial review, public interest litigation (PIL).
      • Constitutional Bodies: Election Commission, UPSC, CAG, National Human Rights Commission.
      • Anti-Corruption Bodies: CVC, CBI, Lokpal, Lokayukta.
      • Citizen-Centric: RTI, Social Audits, Citizen's Charters, Grievance Redressal Mechanisms.
    • Role of Media and Civil Society.
  • Subtopic 6.4.3: Transparency and Openness in Governance
    • Definition: Accessibility of information to citizens; acting in a way that is visible and understandable.
    • Significance: Enhances accountability, reduces corruption, improves public trust, facilitates citizen participation.
    • Tools: E-governance, pro-active disclosure, Open Data Policy, Digital India initiatives.
• Topic 6.5: Strengthening of Ethical and Moral Values in Governance
  • Subtopic 6.5.1: Ethical Leadership and Role Models
    • Importance of leadership in setting ethical tone from the top.
    • Leading by example, fostering an ethical culture.
  • Subtopic 6.5.2: Ethical Training and Sensitization for Civil Servants
    • Induction training, in-service training, refresher courses focusing on values, ethical dilemmas, and practical application.
    • Developing empathy and emotional intelligence.
  • Subtopic 6.5.3: Institutional Reforms
    • Simplification of Rules and Procedures (reducing discretion).
    • E-governance & Digitization (reducing human interface, increasing transparency).
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanisms (effective and accessible).
    • Performance Management Systems linked to ethical conduct.
    • Independent and empowered oversight bodies.
  • Subtopic 6.5.4: Citizen Participation and Oversight
    • Social Audits: Empowering citizens to monitor schemes.
    • Public Feedback Mechanisms: Surveys, consultations, online platforms.
    • Vigilance by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and NGOs.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns on rights and responsibilities.
• Topic 6.6: Ethical Issues in International Relations and Funding
  • Subtopic 6.6.1: Ethics of International Aid and Development
    • Donor vs. Recipient Responsibilities: Conditionalities, sovereignty.
    • Effectiveness of Aid: Corruption, dependency, appropriateness.
    • Ethical Imperatives: Addressing global poverty, equity.
  • Subtopic 6.6.2: Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention
    • Universal Human Rights: Enforcement challenges, cultural relativism debate.
    • Responsibility to Protect (R2P): Ethics of intervention, sovereignty.
    • Refugee Crisis: Ethical obligations of host nations.
  • Subtopic 6.6.3: Climate Change Ethics and Global Justice
    • Intergenerational Equity: Responsibilities to future generations.
    • Intragenerational Equity: Climate justice, disproportionate impact on developing nations.
    • Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
    • Ethics of Geo-engineering, Carbon Markets.
  • Subtopic 6.6.4: Ethics of Corporate Lobbying in International Affairs
    • Influence on Policy-making: Transparency, accountability.
    • Ethical concerns: Bribery, undue influence, environmental impact.
    • Role of international organizations and conventions (e.g., UNCAC).
  • Subtopic 6.6.5: Ethics in Global Governance Bodies (UN, WTO, IMF)
    • Fairness in decision-making, representation, accountability.
• Topic 6.7: Corporate Governance
  • Subtopic 6.7.1: Definition and Principles
    • Definition: System by which companies are directed and controlled.
    • Key Principles: Transparency, Accountability, Fairness, Responsibility (TAFR).
    • Role of Board of Directors, Shareholders, Stakeholders.
  • Subtopic 6.7.2: Ethical Issues in Business
    • Fraud & Misrepresentation: Financial scandals, insider trading.
    • Exploitation: Labor rights, child labor, unfair wages.
    • Environmental Degradation: Pollution, unsustainable practices (Greenwashing).
    • Consumer Rights: Product safety, misleading advertising.
    • Data Ethics: Privacy, data security, algorithmic bias in tech companies.
    • Ethical Sourcing & Supply Chains.
  • Subtopic 6.7.3: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
    • Definition: Companies' commitment to operate in an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable manner.
    • Mandatory CSR in India (Companies Act, 2013): Provisions, impact, challenges.
    • Beyond Compliance: Ethical responsibility, shared value creation.
    • National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC).
  • Subtopic 6.7.4: Role of Regulatory Bodies
    • SEBI: Protecting investor interests, regulating capital markets.
    • Companies Act: Compliance, governance standards.
    • Competition Commission of India: Preventing anti-competitive practices.
    • Consumer Protection Act: Safeguarding consumer rights.

Module 7: Probity in Governance

• Topic 7.1: Concept of Public Service
  • Subtopic 7.1.1: Philosophical Basis of Public Service
    • Public Trust Doctrine: Government as a trustee of public resources and power.
    • Utilitarianism: Greatest good for the greatest number.
    • Deontology: Duty to serve the public.
    • Sarvodaya: Welfare of all, poorest of the poor.
    • Gandhi's Trusteeship: Applying to governance.
  • Subtopic 7.1.2: Public Interest vs. Private Interest
    • Definition: What constitutes 'public interest'.
    • Balancing Competing Interests: Dilemmas in policymaking and project implementation (e.g., land acquisition, environmental vs. development).
    • Ethical Priority: Public interest above personal or sectional interests.
• Topic 7.2: Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity
  • Subtopic 7.2.1: Rule of Law and Due Process
    • Foundation of good governance: Equality before law, no arbitrary power.
    • Importance for ensuring fairness and justice.
  • Subtopic 7.2.2: Principles of Good Governance
    • UN, World Bank, ARC Reports: Participation, Rule of Law, Transparency, Responsiveness, Consensus Orientation, Equity & Inclusiveness, Effectiveness & Efficiency, Accountability.
    • Probity as a Cornerstone of Good Governance.
  • Subtopic 7.2.3: Probity
    • Definition: Adherence to the highest principles and ideals; uprightness, honesty, integrity, and adherence to moral principles, especially in public life.
    • Elements of Probity: Transparency, Accountability, Impartiality, Honesty, Frugality, Selflessness.
• Topic 7.3: Information Sharing and Transparency in Government
  • Subtopic 7.3.1: Significance of Transparency for Good Governance
    • Reduces corruption, enhances accountability, builds trust, empowers citizens, improves decision-making.
  • Subtopic 7.3.2: Barriers to Transparency
    • Official Secrets Act, bureaucratic culture of secrecy, lack of capacity, fear of scrutiny, data management issues.
    • Ways to Overcome: Legal reforms, cultural change, capacity building, technology adoption.
  • Subtopic 7.3.3: Proactive Disclosure
    • Beyond RTI: Government's obligation to publish information voluntarily.
    • E-governance initiatives for transparency: Digital platforms, dashboards.
• Topic 7.4: Right to Information (RTI)
  • Subtopic 7.4.1: Historical Background and Evolution
    • Global context, Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) movement in India.
    • Landmark judgments supporting right to know.
  • Subtopic 7.4.2: Key Provisions and Significance of RTI Act, 2005
    • Obligations of Public Authorities, Definition of Information, Exemptions.
    • Role of Central and State Information Commissions.
    • Impact: Empowering citizens, promoting accountability, reducing corruption, improving service delivery.
  • Subtopic 7.4.3: Challenges in Implementation and Recent Amendments
    • High pendency, lack of awareness, resistance from bureaucracy, threats to activists, dilution of powers of ICs.
    • RTI Amendment Act, 2019 and its implications.
    • Current initiatives to strengthen RTI (e.g., e-RTI portals).
• Topic 7.5: Codes of Ethics and Codes of Conduct
  • Subtopic 7.5.1: Distinction and Purpose
    • Code of Ethics: Articulates aspirational principles and values (what one should be).
    • Code of Conduct: Specifies rules of behavior and acceptable actions (what one should do).
    • Purpose: Guide behavior, clarify expectations, promote integrity, provide basis for disciplinary action.
  • Subtopic 7.5.2: Examples from Indian Context
    • Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964: Key provisions (e.g., gifts, political activity, private trade).
    • Draft Public Services Bill, 2007 (Proposed Code of Ethics).
    • Codes for Ministers, Judges, MPs/MLAs.
    • Corporate Codes of Conduct.
  • Subtopic 7.5.3: Enforcement and Effectiveness
    • Mechanisms: Disciplinary proceedings, vigilance.
    • Challenges: Lack of awareness, weak enforcement, general nature of rules.
    • Suggestions for Improvement: Regular training, ethical leadership, effective monitoring.
• Topic 7.6: Citizen's Charters
  • Subtopic 7.6.1: Concept and Objectives
    • Definition: A document that articulates the commitment of a public service organization towards its citizens/customers.
    • Objectives: Enhance transparency, accountability, and quality of public service delivery.
    • Origin: UK's Citizen's Charter movement.
  • Subtopic 7.6.2: Components and Principles of a good Citizen's Charter
    • Components: Vision/Mission, Services provided, Standards of quality, Time limits, Grievance redressal mechanism, Expectations from citizens.
    • Principles (6): Quality, Choice, Standards, Value, Accountability, Transparency.
  • Subtopic 7.6.3: Implementation and Challenges in India
    • Initial phase, Second ARC recommendations.
    • Challenges: Lack of public awareness, poor design, lack of consultation, rigid implementation, lack of accountability for non-adherence.
    • Suggestions for Improvement: Wide consultation, regular review, performance linking, social audits.
    • Sevottam Model: Service Delivery Excellence Model (components: Service Delivery, Grievance Redressal, Citizen's Charter).
• Topic 7.7: Work Culture and Quality of Service Delivery
  • Subtopic 7.7.1: Importance of Ethical Work Culture
    • Definition: Shared values, beliefs, and practices that guide behavior in an organization.
    • Elements: Professionalism, meritocracy, teamwork, innovation, integrity.
    • Impact: Employee morale, productivity, public image, quality of service.
  • Subtopic 7.7.2: Factors Affecting Service Delivery
    • Attitude of civil servants (apathy, empathy).
    • Training and Capacity Building.
    • Bureaucratic Processes (red-tapism, delays).
    • Resource Availability (manpower, infrastructure).
    • Feedback Mechanisms & Grievance Redressal.
    • Digital Divide & Accessibility Issues.
  • Subtopic 7.7.3: Strategies for Improving Service Delivery
    • Citizen-centric approach, e-governance, single-window clearance, decentralization.
    • Behavioral change initiatives for public servants.
    • Performance incentives and accountability for service standards.
• Topic 7.8: Utilization of Public Funds
  • Subtopic 7.8.1: Principles of Financial Probity and Prudence
    • Probity: Honesty, integrity, fairness in financial transactions.
    • Prudence: Wise and careful management, economy, efficiency, effectiveness (3 Es).
    • Accountability for Public Money: Fiduciary duty.
  • Subtopic 7.8.2: Ethical Issues in Public Spending
    • Wastage, Misappropriation, Irregularities, Corruption in procurement.
    • Lack of transparency in budgetary allocations and expenditures.
    • Ghost beneficiaries, leakages in welfare schemes.
  • Subtopic 7.8.3: Role of Audit and Parliamentary Oversight
    • Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG): Powers and functions.
    • Parliamentary Committees: Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Estimates Committee, Committee on Public Undertakings.
    • Social Audits by citizens.
    • Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act.
• Topic 7.9: Challenges of Corruption (Revisited for Solutions and Prevention)
  • Subtopic 7.9.1: Types and Manifestations of Corruption (Detailed)
    • Petty vs. Grand; Bureaucratic vs. Political; Collusive vs. Extortionate.
    • Specific examples: Bribes, speed money, kickbacks, lobbying, electoral corruption.
  • Subtopic 7.9.2: Impact on Governance, Economy, and Society (Detailed)
    • Economic: Reduced FDI, misallocation, shadow economy, inflation.
    • Social: Inequality, injustice, erosion of social capital, brain drain.
    • Political: Political instability, delegitimization of democracy, rise of populism.
  • Subtopic 7.9.3: Institutional Framework for Combating Corruption
    • Legislative: Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, Prevention of Corruption Act, Whistleblowers Act, Fugitive Economic Offenders Act.
    • Investigative Agencies: CBI, State Vigilance Bureaus, Anti-Corruption Bureaus.
    • Oversight Bodies: CVC, CAG, Election Commission, CIC.
    • Judiciary: PILs, anti-corruption benches.
    • International Conventions: UNCAC (UN Convention Against Corruption), FATF (Financial Action Task Force).
  • Subtopic 7.9.4: Role of Technology and Citizen Awareness in Fighting Corruption
    • E-governance: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), online services.
    • Data Analytics, AI, Blockchain in identifying corruption patterns.
    • Citizen Vigilance Groups, Public Awareness Campaigns, Social Media.
    • Importance of Ethical Leadership and strong political will.

Module 8: Ethical Decision Making and Problem Solving

• Topic 8.1: Frameworks for Ethical Decision Making
  • Subtopic 8.1.1: Normative Ethical Theories as Decision Frameworks
    • Deontological Approach: Focus on duties, rules, principles. (e.g., following rules regardless of outcome).
    • Consequentialist/Teleological Approach: Focus on outcomes, consequences. (e.g., greatest good for greatest number).
    • Virtue Ethics Approach: Focus on character, what a virtuous person would do.
    • Strengths and Limitations of each approach in practical decision-making.
  • Subtopic 8.1.2: Other Ethical Frameworks for Decision Making
    • Rights-Based Ethics: Upholding fundamental rights.
    • Justice-Based Ethics: Fairness, equity, impartiality.
    • Care-Based Ethics: Emphasis on relationships, empathy, particular needs.
    • Communitarian Ethics: Focus on community values and traditions.
  • Subtopic 8.1.3: Integrated Ethical Decision-Making Models
    • REST Model (Rest's Four Component Model): Moral Sensitivity, Moral Judgment, Moral Motivation, Moral Character.
    • PLUS Model (Principles, Laws, Universal, Self): Practical framework for applying ethical filters.
    • Case Study Approach: Applying multiple frameworks to complex scenarios.
• Topic 8.2: Problem Solving Approaches in Administration
  • Subtopic 8.2.1: Defining the Problem and Identifying Stakeholders
    • Problem Articulation: Clarity, specificity.
    • Stakeholder Analysis: Identifying all affected parties, their interests, power, and ethical claims.
  • Subtopic 8.2.2: Generating Alternatives and Evaluating Consequences
    • Brainstorming, divergent thinking.
    • SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).
    • Cost-Benefit Analysis, Risk Assessment.
    • Ethical Impact Assessment of alternatives.
  • Subtopic 8.2.3: Implementing Solutions and Monitoring Outcomes
    • Developing an action plan, resource allocation.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) for ethical outcomes and course correction.
    • Learning from experience.
• Topic 8.3: Ethical Dilemmas in Administration (In-depth Analysis)
  • Subtopic 8.3.1: Types of Dilemmas in Public Service
    • Duty vs. Duty (e.g., confidentiality vs. public safety).
    • Ends vs. Means (e.g., achieving good outcome through unethical means).
    • Public Interest vs. Private Interest (e.g., personal relationships affecting official decisions).
    • Law vs. Conscience (e.g., implementing an unjust law).
    • Efficiency vs. Equity (e.g., fast track projects vs. environmental concerns).
    • Loyalty vs. Truth (e.g., reporting misconduct vs. protecting a colleague).
  • Subtopic 8.3.2: Strategies for Navigating Complex Ethical Challenges
    • Structured Decision-Making Process (e.g., asking "who benefits/suffers?", "what is the greatest good?", "what is my duty?", "what would a virtuous person do?").
    • Seeking Counsel: Consulting peers, seniors, ethical committees.
    • Maintaining Objectivity: Avoiding emotional bias, confirmation bias.
    • Courage of Conviction: Upholding values despite pressure.
  • Subtopic 8.3.3: Role of Consultation, Peer Support, and Ethical Committees
    • Benefits of collective wisdom.
    • Formal (ethics committees, vigilance units) and Informal (peer groups) support.
    • Creating a culture that supports ethical dialogue.

Module 9: Case Studies (Applied Ethics)

• Topic 9.1: Methodology for Solving Case Studies
  • Subtopic 9.1.1: Understanding the Problem and Identifying Ethical Issues
    • Reading the case carefully, identifying central dilemma(s).
    • Listing explicit and implicit ethical concerns.
  • Subtopic 9.1.2: Identifying Stakeholders and their Perspectives
    • Mapping all individuals/groups affected by the decision.
    • Understanding their interests, concerns, and potential impacts.
  • Subtopic 9.1.3: Exploring Options and their Ethical Implications
    • Brainstorming a range of possible courses of action (not just obvious ones).
    • Analyzing each option through different ethical lenses (Deontology, Consequentialism, Virtue Ethics, etc.).
    • Identifying pros and cons, risks and benefits of each option.
  • Subtopic 9.1.4: Justifying the Chosen Course of Action
    • Selecting the 'best' option based on sound ethical reasoning.
    • Clearly articulating the principles, values, and consequences that support the choice.
    • Prioritizing values if there's a conflict (e.g., public interest over personal gain).
  • Subtopic 9.1.5: Anticipating Consequences and Mitigating Risks
    • Considering both immediate and long-term consequences.
    • Planning for potential negative outcomes and how to address them.
    • Reflecting on the impact on one's own integrity and the organization's reputation.
• Topic 9.2: Practice Case Studies - Thematic
  • Subtopic 9.2.1: Case Studies on Integrity and Corruption
    • Scenarios involving bribery, embezzlement, misuse of funds, fraudulent practices.
    • Challenges of whistle-blowing, resisting political pressure.
  • Subtopic 9.2.2: Case Studies on Impartiality and Non-partisanship
    • Scenarios involving political interference, caste/communal bias, favoritism towards specific groups.
    • Dilemmas of maintaining neutrality during elections or social unrest.
  • Subtopic 9.2.3: Case Studies on Empathy and Social Justice
    • Scenarios involving vulnerable sections, humanitarian crises, resource allocation for marginalized groups.
    • Balancing rules/regulations with compassion for individual cases.
  • Subtopic 9.2.4: Case Studies on Conflict of Interest and Probity
    • Scenarios involving personal financial interests, family relations in official dealings, post-retirement appointments.
    • Ethical issues in public procurement and contracts.
  • Subtopic 9.2.5: Case Studies on Transparency and Accountability
    • Scenarios involving RTI requests, official secrecy, proactive disclosure, data management.
    • Addressing public grievances effectively, social audits.
  • Subtopic 9.2.6: Case Studies on Disaster Management and Crisis Leadership
    • Ethical challenges during natural disasters (resource allocation, prioritizing lives, communication).
    • Leadership dilemmas during public health crises (e.g., pandemics, balancing public health vs. individual liberty).
  • Subtopic 9.2.7: Case Studies on Policy Implementation and Public Service Delivery
    • Dilemmas in implementing policies (e.g., balancing economic growth vs. environmental protection, displacement due to development projects).
    • Challenges in ensuring last-mile delivery and addressing bureaucratic apathy.
  • Subtopic 9.2.8: Case Studies on Emerging Ethical Issues
    • AI Ethics: Algorithmic bias, data privacy, surveillance, ethical use of AI in governance.
    • Environmental Ethics: Sustainable development dilemmas, climate change responsibilities.
    • Social Media Ethics: Managing public perception, handling misinformation, freedom of speech vs. public order for civil servants.