2024 · GS Paper 4 · Q1(b) · 10 marks
"Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individuals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour." Explain the key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions. Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context. Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context.
In short
The key dimensions of ethics are duty, consequences, virtue and care, which shape human action and together guide a professional from fixed non-negotiables through trade-offs to humane judgement. Satyendra Dubey's 2002 letter exposing highway corruption, for which he was killed in 2003, shows the duty dimension upheld at great personal cost.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 276 words
Duty
Kant's categorical imperative judges acts by whether their maxim could become universal law, so truth is told even at a cost.
Consequences
Bentham and Mill judge acts by the greatest good of the greatest number.
Virtue
Aristotle held that habit turns prudence, courage and justice into settled character rather than case-by-case calculation.
Care
Carol Gilligan's ethics of care stresses relationships and the needs of the vulnerable.
Duty sets limits
The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 fix the non-negotiables; Satyendra Dubey's 2002 letter exposing highway corruption led to the whistleblower resolution of 2004.
Outcomes guide trade-offs
The 2021 COVID-19 vaccination drive first covered health and frontline workers and the elderly, a ranking meant to save the most lives per dose.
Character holds under pressure
As Chief Election Commissioner, T.N. Seshan enforced the Model Code of Conduct despite political pressure.
Care humanises duty
Armstrong Pame mobilised citizens to build a 100-km road for neglected villages in Manipur in 2012.
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Dimensions of ethics13 questions
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2024 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.