Q.
What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? How does it manifest itself in the public domain? (150 words, 10 Marks)
August 18, 2023
GS Paper IVEthics, Integrity and Aptitude
Answer:
Approach:
- Introduction: Define crisis of conscience.
- Body:
- Explain how the crisis of conscience manifests itself in the public domain?
- How to overcome it?
- Conclusion: Give prospective way ahead.
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Introduction:
A crisis of conscience refers to a situation in which an individual’s beliefs or values conflict with their actions or decisions. It is a moral or ethical dilemma that arises when one is faced with a choice that goes against their conscience.
A crisis of conscience can manifest itself in the public domain when an individual or a group of individuals is confronted with a decision or action that goes against their beliefs or values.
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Body:
How does the crisis of conscience manifest itself in the public domain?
- A doctor who is asked to perform a medical procedure that goes against their ethical principles, such as performing an abortion or assisted suicide.
- A civil servant who is asked to carry out an order that goes against their conscience, such as implementing a policy that discriminates against a particular community.
- A journalist who is asked to publish a news article that contains false or misleading information that goes against their journalistic principles of truth and accuracy.
- A whistle-blower who is faced with the dilemma of revealing sensitive information that could harm their employer or organization but is necessary to expose wrongdoing and uphold the public interest.
Conclusion:
Upholding constitutional morality, adhering to ethical principles, and promoting a culture of integrity can help individuals and institutions navigate such crises and uphold the public interest.