2020 · Paper III · 10 marks

Define moral attitude and explain the four qualities of moral attitude. What are the factors that shape political attitude?

In short

Moral attitude is a settled disposition toward right and wrong, and its four qualities are moral awareness, moral sensitivity, moral action and consistency with integrity. Political attitudes are shaped by family, education, media, socioeconomic status, religion, culture, personality and history, such as the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
Moral and political attitudes are foundational for ethical governance, influencing decision-making and public trust, especially for civil servants amid rapid social change and political polarization. These attitudes shape how officials navigate complex challenges and uphold democratic values.
Defining Moral Attitude and Its Core Qualities
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Four Qualities

Moral awareness (recognizing ethical dilemmas, e.g., environmental conflicts in the Ministry of Environment), moral sensitivity (empathy, as in housing schemes for the homeless), moral action (consistent ethical behavior like DBT transparency to prevent corruption), and consistency (aligning values and actions over time, exemplified by those upholding honesty despite personal sacrifice).

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Behavioral Commitment

Beyond awareness and feelings, moral attitude requires active ethical choices, such as implementing policies fairly and resisting corrupt practices, which strengthens governance quality.

Factors Influencing Political Attitude Formation
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Education and Media

Exposure to diverse views through education and media influences political understanding, seen in Andhra Pradesh’s civic awareness programs and media outlets that shape public opinion and participation.

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Socioeconomic and Geographic Factors

Economic background and location affect political priorities, e.g., rural Rayalaseema prioritizing agricultural policies differently than urban Visakhapatnam, reflecting distinct local needs.

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Religion, Personality, and History

Religious beliefs and cultural identity influence moral frameworks; personality traits like openness affect political activism; generational experiences and events like the Andhra Pradesh bifurcation and Special Category Status demand deeply shape regional political attitudes.

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Political Context and Mobilization

Historical events and political movements foster collective identity and mobilization, reinforcing political attitudes aligned with regional aspirations and governance challenges.

Conclusion
A nuanced grasp of moral and political attitudes aids civil servants in balancing ethics and governance demands, ensuring integrity, public trust, and effective democratic administration.

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Hand-drawn diagram: Moral and Political Attitude. Moral and Political Attitude. Diagram (tree): Moral and Political Attitude; Moral attitude qualities; Awareness, sensitivity; Action, consistency; Political attitude factors; Family, education, media; Status, geography, history
Diagram: Moral and Political Attitude

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This chapter in the exam

Attitude and Emotional intelligence6 questions

Asked in 3 of 8 sittings since 2008

2008
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2011
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2012
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2016
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2017
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2020
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2023
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2025
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Most tested: Attitude as a determinant of public servant behaviour, including its components and behavioural impact.

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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.

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