“Punishing corruption without addressing the mindset behind it is a short-term fix.” How can a shift in attitudes among public servants and citizens contribute to long-term anti-corruption efforts?
Answer: "Laws prevent acts; values prevent intentions." While punishment treats the symptoms of corruption, lasting change requires an ethical transformation. Without internal moral reform, anti-corruption measures remain superficial.
Combating Corruption: Importance of Mindset Shift
- Legal punishment is reactive, not preventive. E.g., Vigilance can detect corruption; values can prevent it.
- Fear-based compliance is temporary. E.g., CCTV may deter bribery; ethics prevents it even without surveillance.
- Ethical mindsets enable integrity in grey areas. E.g., Officers avoid bias when guided by virtue ethics.
- Public participation and tolerance for corruption. E.g., Bribes for licenses normalize everyday corruption.
Bringing Behavioural Change among Public Servants
- Ethics Training ....
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UPSC
- 1 Political apathy among citizens weakens democratic institutions and accountability. Discuss the ethical dimensions of political apathy and suggest measures to promote responsible civic participation.
- 2 Highlight the constitutional and legal provisions governing the Delimitation Commission in India and discuss why the upcoming delimitation exercise has raised concerns in southern states.
- 3 In India’s parliamentary structure, the Rajya Sabha is often considered a secondary chamber. Critically examine.
- 4 In the Indian parliamentary system, Department-Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) are often called 'mini-parliaments.' Examine.
- 5 The Small Island Developing States (SIDS) of the Indian Ocean are not only vulnerable regions but also strategic partners in India’s Indo-Pacific vision. Discuss.
- 6 Digital access has become the 'new gateway' to participatory democracy in India. In this context, how does the 2025 Supreme Court judgment declaring digital access as a fundamental right strengthen participatory democracy? Explain with suitable examples.
- 7 Mental health challenges among youth in India are not just personal struggles but indicators of systemic developmental gaps. Examine.
- 8 The concept of "Sponge Cities" is gaining attention in urban areas. Discuss this in the context of ecological stress caused by unplanned urbanisation in India.
- 9 In India, fertility rate has fallen below replacement level. Analyse the implications of this in the context of India’s demographic transition.
- 10 While regionalism in India has often served as a medium for cultural assertion and developmental demands, it can also pose challenges to national integration. Analyse.
