GS-IV · UPSC Mains PYQEthics 2016 10 Marks

Law and ethics are considered to be the two tools for controlling human conduct so as to make it conducive to civilized social existence. (a) Discuss how they achieve this objective. (b) Giving examples, show how the two differ in their approaches.

Microtheme: Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Ethical Guidance · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2016.

Microtheme deep dive

Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Ethical Guides

How rules and conscience together guide civil-service action — with case-study framing UPSC rewards.

Read the deep dive

Model Answer Approach

  1. Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Ethical Guidance.
  2. Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
  3. Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
  4. Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.

Structure Checklist

  • Definition / context in intro
  • Minimum 1 data point or report
  • Multi-dimensional arguments
  • Counter-view / limitations
  • Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
  • Way forward in conclusion

Keywords to Use

consideredcontrollingconductconducivecivilizedexistencediscussachieve
WhatsApp