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150 Words10 Marks

Q.“Integrity is a value that empowers the human being.” Justify with suitable illustration. (150 words, 10 Marks)

UPSC Mains 2021•Ethics & Integrity

Model Answer

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Syllabus Point

  • Foundational Values for Civil Services – Integrity, Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service

Approach

  1. Introduction (Definition) (30-40 words): Define integrity and explain its role in empowering individuals by building trust, credibility, and self-respect, ensuring success in personal and professional life.
  2. Body (Explanation) (80-90 words): Explain how integrity empowers a human being along with suitable historical and contemporary examples.
  3. Conclusion (20 words): Emphasize the importance of integrity as the foundation of ethical leadership, good governance, and personal fulfillment.

Introduction

Integrity is a value that empowers individuals to act in an honest, ethical, and consistent manner, even when faced with difficult situations. It allows individuals to maintain their principles and values, even in the face of adversity.

Immanuel Kant argued that integrity is a necessary condition for moral action. He believed that individuals have a duty to act in accordance with their moral principles, regardless of the consequences. Kant wrote, "So act that your principle of action might safely be made a law for the whole world." In other words, Kant believed that individuals should act in a way that they would want everyone else to act in similar circumstances. This commitment to moral consistency and honesty can empower individuals to make difficult decisions and act in a principled manner, even when it is challenging.

Aristotle also emphasized the importance of integrity in human behavior. He argued that integrity is essential for virtuous living, which he defined as living in accordance with the highest human potential. According to Aristotle, individuals who act with integrity are more likely to develop good character traits, such as honesty, courage, and compassion. He wrote, "Virtue, then, is a state of character concerned with choice, lying in a mean, i.e., the mean relative to us, this being determined by a rational principle... and by that principle by which the man of practical wisdom would determine it." This commitment to rationality and ethical behavior can empower individuals to live fulfilling lives and make positive contributions to society.

Body

How Integrity Empowers Humans:

  • Builds Trust and Credibility: When individuals act with integrity, they gain the trust and respect of others. They are seen as reliable and dependable, and people are more likely to follow their lead.
    • Example: Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's independence movement, was known for his unwavering commitment to non-violence and truthfulness. He earned the trust of millions of people, and his leadership inspired a nation to fight for their freedom.
  • Promotes Self-Respect: Individuals who act with integrity have a strong sense of self-respect and self-worth. They are able to look themselves in the mirror and know that they have acted in accordance with their values, even in the face of difficult choices.
    • Example: Nelson Mandela, the first black President of South Africa, demonstrated integrity throughout his life, even during his 27 years in prison. He refused to compromise his principles and fought for the rights of all South Africans, regardless of their race.
  • Fosters a Sense of Purpose: Acting with integrity gives individuals a sense of purpose and direction. They are able to identify their values and goals and work towards them, even when faced with obstacles.
    • Example: Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, was known for her integrity and dedication to science. Despite facing discrimination and skepticism from her male peers, she remained committed to her research and made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of radioactivity.
  • Encourages Ethical Behavior: Acting with integrity promotes ethical behavior and discourages dishonesty and corruption. It sets a positive example for others and creates a culture of honesty and transparency.
    • Example: Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights leader, demonstrated integrity throughout his life by advocating for non-violent protests and civil disobedience. He inspired millions of people to fight for justice and equality.

Conclusion

Integrity is a value that empowers human beings by building trust, making ethical decisions, strengthening character, and developing credibility. It is a fundamental value that leads to success and personal fulfillment.

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