2014 · GS Paper 4 · Q4(a) · 10 marks
Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings. Giving specific examples, describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development.
In short
Dr B.R. Ambedkar inspires me most, with teachings of constitutional morality, liberty, equality and fraternity, reason over dogma and lawful means. I apply them by protesting through petitions rather than boycotts, objecting to caste remarks and refusing bribes.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 275 words
Constitutional morality
On 4 November 1948 he told the Constituent Assembly that constitutional morality "is not a natural sentiment" and "has to be cultivated".
Liberty, equality, fraternity
On 25 November 1949 he called the three a union, warning that without equality, liberty would produce the supremacy of the few over the many.
Reason over dogma
Annihilation of Caste (1936) asks that customs be tested by reason and justice, not tradition.
Constitutional means
He called unconstitutional methods "the grammar of anarchy" once lawful remedies exist.
Lawful protest
When our hostel mess served poor food, I organised a signed petition and a meeting with the warden instead of a boycott, and the menu committee was revived.
Questioning bias
After reading Annihilation of Caste, I now object to caste remarks among friends rather than staying silent, even at some cost to popularity.
Rules without favours
I refused a bribe for a certificate and used the online grievance portal, accepting delay over a shortcut.
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This chapter in the exam
Human Values — lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators3 questions
Asked in 3 of 14 sittings since 2013
Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2014 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.