All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with suitable example.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2021 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (10-Oct-2021)

Indeed, besides profound domain knowledge, a public official requires innovativeness and creativity of a high order when navigating complex ethical dilemmas. Domain knowledge provides the facts and rules, but ethical dilemmas often involve conflicting values or situations where strict adherence to rules might lead to an unjust outcome. Creativity allows officials to explore novel solutions that uphold ethical principles without compromising efficiency or public welfare.

Consider a public health official facing an outbreak of a highly contagious disease in a densely populated, informal settlement. Domain knowledge dictates isolation and rapid testing. However, the ethical dilemma arises: how to enforce quarantine without stripping residents of their livelihoods or dignity, especially if they are daily wage earners? A creative official might innovate by proposing mobile testing units that reach residents at their doorsteps, offering temporary financial support for isolation, or establishing community-led surveillance to build trust rather than imposing strict lockdowns. This approach transcends mere rule-following, demonstrating how innovative, humane solutions can balance public health imperatives with the ethical need for dignity and livelihood, truly resolving the dilemma rather than merely mitigating it.

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. What are the options available with Rohit to cope with the situation?

  2. What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rohit?

  3. Which of the options, do you think, would be more appropriate for Rohit to adopt and why?

  4. In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the police in dealing with women protesters?

  5. What should be Sneha's course of action?

  6. How would she justify what she chooses to do?

  7. In this case, how is medical ethics compromised with vested personal interest?

  8. Discuss all options available to the District Collector as a District Magistrate.

  9. What suitable actions can be taken in view of mutually compatible interests of the stakeholders?

  10. What are the potential administrative and ethical dilemmas for the District Collector?


Important Questions from GS4

  1. What are the options available with Rohit to cope with the situation?

  2. What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rohit?

  3. Which of the options, do you think, would be more appropriate for Rohit to adopt and why?

  4. In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the police in dealing with women protesters?

  5. What should be Sneha's course of action?

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
UPSC IFoS
November 22, 2026
UPSC SO Steno
December 12, 2026
Test Series
IAS img
UPSC
UPSC CSE (IAS) 2027 Prelims Mock Test Series
662 Tests 3 Tests Free
1476 Attempts
4.8(197)
English, Hindi
More Questions from IAS

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App