Important Topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024
Prepare important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024 to score well in the exam. Read on for the list of important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024.
Deeksha Dixit18 Sept, 2024
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Important Topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude is a crucial part of the UPSC Mains General Studies Paper IV . This paper tests a candidate's attitude and approach to issues related to integrity, probity in public life, and problem-solving approaches to various societal and governance issues.
Scoring 100+ in the UPSC Mains Ethics paper can be tricky due to the subjective nature of the questions and the dynamic syllabus. To excel in this paper, aspirants must have a comprehensive grasp of the key concepts in ethics. Here's a detailed guide on important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024 for aspirants.Important Topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024
The ethics paper in the UPSC Mains examination has two sections. The first section has 10 marks for questions testing ethical theories, public service values, etc. Section B has six case studies worth 20 marks each, evaluating the candidates' ability to apply these principles in real-life scenarios. Therefore, understanding important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024 is vital for effective preparation. The following table outlines the key topics to focus on:| Important Topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024 | |
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Ethics and Human Interface | Essence, determinants, and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships. |
| Human Values | Lessons from great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, APJ Kalam, Swami Vivekananda, the role of family, society, and educational institutions |
| Attitude | Structure and function of attitude, influence of attitude, Moral and political attitudes, Social influence, persuasion |
| Aptitude and Values for Civil Service | Foundational Values for Civil Service; Integrity, impartiality, non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance, and compassion |
| Emotional Intelligence | Concepts of emotional intelligence, utility, and application in administration and governance. |
| Moral Thinkers and Philosophers | Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and the World, including Kautilya, Swami Vivekananda, Buddha, Rabindranath Tagore, Plato, Aristotle, and Immanuel Kant. |
| Ethics in Public Administration | Ethical concerns and dilemmas, Sources of ethical guidance, Accountability, Ethical governance, and Corporate governance. |
| Probity in Governance | Concept of public service, Transparency in government, Codes of ethics, Codes of conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Quality of service delivery, Challenges and solutions to corruption. |
| Case Studies | Practical applications of the aforementioned topics in real-world scenarios. |
| Current Affairs Based | Forgery by Officers, Radical Democracy, Abuse of Power and Privilege , and Ethical use of AI. |
Tips to Prepare Important Topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024
Preparing for the Ethics paper in UPSC Mains requires a holistic approach. Candidates must understand the key concepts before practicing case studies. Here are some tips to help you cover important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024: Read Standard Books Refer to ‘Lexicon’ and ‘Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude’ by PW OnlyIAS for comprehensive coverage of the syllabus. Aim to develop a conceptual understanding of key concepts mentioned in the Ethics Syllabus. Understand Key Concepts Familiarise yourself with the core concepts of ethics, such as the essence and consequences of ethics, the dimensions of ethics, and the teachings of various philosophers. Note down key terms and definitions. Use Real-Life Examples Relate theoretical concepts to real-life examples and connect with current affairs with the help of the PWOnlyIAS Prahaar Mains Booklet . This will not only help in understanding the concepts better but also in writing effective answers. Practice Answer Writing Regularly practice writing answers to the previous year's UPSC Mains Ethics questions to improve your ability to structure and articulate your answers effectively. Learn from the lives of famous IAS officers and civil servants, to quote examples in the answers. Solve Multiple Case Studies Case studies are an integral part of the Ethics paper. Practice solving case studies that present ethical dilemmas, focusing on identifying the key issues, stakeholders, and possible courses of action with the help of mentors. https://www.youtube.com/live/B_I-zfpW_RU?si=uxec2835Iyru-vzwUPSC Mains Ethics Previous Year Questions
The GS Paper 4, also known as the Ethics Paper, includes case studies and short-answer questions that test the candidate's ability to analyse ethical dilemmas and apply ethical principles. Candidates can go through Ethics Mains PYQs to learn the right approach to questions and identify high-yield topics. Here are some previous year questions from Section A:| UPSC Mains Ethics Previous Year Questions | ||
| Questions | Word Limit | Marks |
| Q.1 What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency’ in the context of corporate governance in India? Illustrate with suitable examples. (2023) | 150 Words | 10 Marks |
| Q.2 “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society? (2023) | 150 Words | 10 Marks |
| Q.3 Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples. (2023) | 150 Words | 10 Marks |
| Q.4 Apart from intellectual competence and moral qualities, empathy and compassion are some of the other vital attributes that facilitate the civil servants to be more competent in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical decisions. Explain with suitable illustrations (2022) | 150 Words | 10 Marks |
| Q.5 “If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” – Abdul Kalam. (2022) | 150 Words | 10 Marks |
| Click Here for Previous Years’ Solved Case Studies | ||
| Click Here for Ethics Section A Solved Questions | ||
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| UPSC Mains Subjects | IAS Officer After 12th | Ethics Books for UPSC 2024 |
| UPSC Mains Syllabus | Pratigya Diwas 2024 | UPSC Mains Important Topics |
Important Topics In Ethics For UPSC Mains 2024 FAQs
How to prepare for GS 4 Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024?
Focus on understanding key concepts, read standard books like 'Lexicon' and 'Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude,' and practice writing answers and case studies regularly.
How to find out important topics in Ethics for UPSC Mains 2024?
Refer to the UPSC syllabus, previous years' question papers, and comprehensive guides from PW OnlyIAS to identify and focus on essential topics.
Is it possible to score 140 in Ethics?
Yes, scoring 140 in Ethics is achievable with thorough preparation, understanding of key concepts, regular answer writing practice, and effective use of real-life examples.
How to integrate current affairs into Ethics preparation?
Relate ethical concepts to current events and issues, and use real-life examples to illustrate your answers, enhancing the relevance and depth of your responses.
What are the most critical ethical theories to focus on for UPSC Mains 2024?
The most critical ethical theories to focus on for UPSC Mains include Utilitarianism, Deontology, Virtue Ethics, and Moral Relativism.
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