Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude with Case Studies for UPSC
- Mohan Krishna
- Sep 27
- 2 min read
The Ethics paper in UPSC is not just theoretical, it tests how aspirants apply values to real-life situations. Let’s explore four key concepts with practical case study examples that mirror the kind of dilemmas civil servants face.
Integrity builds trust, probity ensures fairness, and attitude shapes the service together they define the true spirit of a civil servant.
1. Integrity
Definition: Integrity is being honest and consistent in values, words, and actions. It means doing the right thing, even under pressure.
Case Study Example: You are a junior officer in the Public Works Department. A contractor offers you a bribe to clear his pending bill quickly. He argues that the payment delay is affecting workers’ wages.
What should you do? The ethical response is to uphold integrity, refuse the bribe and process the file according to rules. At the same time, you can ensure workers are not unfairly penalized by speeding up legitimate clearances.
2. Probity
Definition: Probity means maintaining transparency, fairness, and accountability in public service. It is about being beyond reproach.
Case Study Example: As a district magistrate, you are responsible for awarding tenders for a government housing project. A close relative owns one of the bidding companies.
What should you do? Probity demands recusal from the decision-making process to avoid conflict of interest. The tender should be conducted transparently, ensuring equal opportunity for all bidders.
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude with Case Studies for UPSC
3. Attitude
Definition: Attitude shapes how one perceives and reacts to situations. For a civil servant, empathy, service orientation, and optimism are key.
Case Study Example: You are posted in a drought-hit region where farmers are protesting for relief. The situation is tense, and police suggest using force to disperse the crowd.
What should you do? A positive and empathetic attitude requires listening to farmers’ concerns, engaging in dialogue, and providing immediate relief measures. Force should be the last resort. This builds trust and prevents escalation.
4. Moral Dilemmas
Definition: Moral dilemmas arise when duties, values, or interests conflict. The challenge is to choose the most ethical and balanced option.
Case Study Example: You are a police officer asked to evict slum dwellers from government land. Legally, the eviction is valid, but families will be left homeless in the monsoon season.
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