Wednesday, 28 January 2026

 

GS–IV ETHICS

Page–7 : Western Moral Thinkers & Ethical Theories

Shaktimatha 369 Learning

1. Importance of Western Ethical Thought

Western moral philosophy provides systematic frameworks to analyse ethical dilemmas. These theories help administrators justify decisions through reasoned arguments and universal principles.

2. Aristotle – Virtue Ethics

Aristotle emphasised virtue and character as the foundation of ethical life. He advocated the Golden Mean, which promotes moderation between extremes.

  • Ethics based on habit and character
  • Balance between excess and deficiency
  • Focus on moral excellence

In administration, virtue ethics encourages prudence, fairness, and moral judgement.

3. Immanuel Kant – Deontological Ethics

Immanuel Kant proposed duty-based ethics. He argued that actions are morally right if they are performed out of duty, not consequences.

  • Categorical Imperative
  • Universal moral rules
  • Respect for human dignity

Kantian ethics reinforces rule of law, impartiality, and constitutional duty in public service.

4. Jeremy Bentham & John Stuart Mill – Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism evaluates actions based on outcomes. It aims at achieving maximum happiness for the maximum number.

  • Consequentialist approach
  • Cost–benefit analysis
  • Public welfare orientation

In governance, utilitarian ethics supports policy decisions that maximise social welfare.

5. John Rawls – Theory of Justice

John Rawls proposed justice as fairness. He emphasised equal basic liberties and protection of the least advantaged.

  • Original position
  • Veil of ignorance
  • Social justice and equity

Rawlsian ethics guides inclusive and equitable policymaking.

6. Relevance of Western Thinkers in Civil Services

  • Provide ethical reasoning frameworks
  • Help resolve complex moral dilemmas
  • Support fair and transparent governance
  • Complement Indian ethical traditions

7. Conclusion

Western moral thinkers offer structured ethical theories that enhance decision-making in public administration. When applied judiciously, they strengthen ethical governance and public trust.

End of GS–IV Ethics – Page–7 (Western Thinkers)

GS–IV ETHICS – COMPLETE MASTER LIBRARY

UPSC / UPPSC | Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

Shaktimatha 369 Learning
Foundation • Thinkers • Case Studies • PYQs • Rank Booster

📘 SECTION A: CORE ETHICS SYLLABUS (FOUNDATION)

📚 SECTION B: THINKERS & MORAL PHILOSOPHY

🏛️ SECTION C: INTEGRITY, PROBITY & CIVIL SERVICES

🧩 SECTION D: CASE STUDIES (MODEL & ADVANCED)

📝 SECTION E: PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS (PYQs)

🎯 SECTION F: REVISION, ENRICHMENT & RANK BOOSTERS

📌 HOW TO USE THIS LIBRARY

  1. Start with Foundation (Section A)
  2. Cover Thinkers & Values (Section B)
  3. Strengthen Integrity topics (Section C)
  4. Master Case Studies (Section D)
  5. Practice PYQs (Section E)
  6. Finish with Revision & Rank Booster (Section F)

GS–IV ETHICS – COMPLETE MASTER LIBRARY
Built with discipline • clarity • examiner perspective
Shaktimatha 369 Learning

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