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Q. “Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is important to realize that the state bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality.” Critically analyze this statement. (150 words, 10 Marks)

October 11, 2023 1

GS Paper IV Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Answer:

Approach:

  • Introduction: Write about the public administration. 
  • Body: 
    1. Analyze the statement in multiperspective along with proper substantiation.
    2. Mention the independent bureaucratic morality. 
    3. Add points from both sides. 
  • Conclusion: Conclude suitably with the way forward. 

 

Introduction:

He believed that the state bureaucracy possessed its own independent bureaucratic morality, which was necessary for the efficient functioning of the administrative system. This statement raises some critical questions regarding the relationship between morality and public administration.

Body:

  • On the one hand, Weber’s argument recognizes the need for a specialized moral code that is specific to the functioning of the bureaucratic system. The state bureaucracy operates within a complex network of rules and regulations, and public administrators are required to uphold these rules in order to ensure the efficient delivery of public services.
  • The bureaucratic morality, therefore, provides a framework for public administrators to follow in order to fulfill their duties effectively.
  • On the other hand, Weber’s argument has been criticized for downplaying the importance of moral and ethical considerations in public administration. The argument can be interpreted as a justification for bureaucratic behavior that is purely focused on rules and regulations, without taking into account the wider social and ethical implications of administrative decisions.
  • This approach can lead to situations where bureaucratic decisions conflict with the moral values of society, leading to a breakdown of trust between the state and its citizens.
  • In practice, it is important to strike a balance between the need for bureaucratic efficiency and the moral and ethical considerations of public administration. While the state bureaucracy may have its own independent bureaucratic morality, this morality should be in line with the broader social and ethical values of society.
  • Public administrators should be held accountable for their decisions, and their actions should be guided by a strong ethical framework that is based on the principles of fairness, justice, and equality.

Conclusion:

Weber’s argument that public administration should be judged by a different moral and ethical standard has some validity, but it must be tempered by a broader understanding of the social and ethical implications of bureaucratic decisions. The state bureaucracy should operate within an ethical framework that balances the need for bureaucratic efficiency with the wider social and ethical considerations of public administration.

 

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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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