Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude — UPSC CSE GS Paper 4 PYQs

(a) [Ethics] In the present digital age, social media has revolutionised our way of communication and interaction. However, it has raised several ethical issues and challenges. Describe the key ethical dilemmas in this regard. (Answer in 150 words)

(b) [Integrity] "Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment but a product of civil education and adherance of the rule of law." Examine the significance of constitutional morality for public servant highlighting the role in promoting good governance and ensuring accountability in public administration. (Answer in 150 words)

(a) [Ethics] Carl von Clausewitz once said, "War is a diplomacy by other means." Critically analyse the above statement in the present context of contemporary geo-political conflict. (Answer in 150 words)

(b) [Ethics] Keeping the national security in mind, examine the ethical dilemmas related to controversies over environmental clearance of development projects in ecologically sensitive border areas in the country. (Answer in 150 words)

(a) [Attitude] Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context ?
"Those who in trouble untroubled are, Will trouble trouble itself." - Thiruvalluvar (Answer in 150 words)

(b) [Attitude] "The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes." - William James (Answer in 150 words)

(c) [Attitude] "The strength of a society is not in its laws, but in the morality of its people." - Swami Vivekananda (Answer in 150 words)

(a) [Aptitude] "For any kind of social re-engineering by successfully implementing welfare schemes, a civil servant must use reason and critical thinking in an ethical framework." Justify this statement with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

(b) [Ethics] What are the major teachings of Mahavir ? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. (Answer in 150 words)

(a) [Aptitude] "One who is devoted to one's duty attains highest perfection in life." Analyse this statement with reference to sense of responsibility and personal fulfilment as a civil servant. (Answer in 150 words)