GS-IV · UPSC Mains PYQEthics 2016 10 Marks

Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is important to realise that the State bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality. Critically analyse this statement.

Microtheme: Public/Civil Service Values · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2016.

Model Answer Approach

  1. Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Public/Civil Service Values.
  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 Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.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

administrationethicalmatterspersonalconscienceimportantrealisebureaucracy
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