📘 Model Answer 11
Administrative Ethics & Democratic Legitimacy
Question
Model Answer (250 Words)
Administrative ethics refers to the moral principles guiding the conduct of public officials in the discharge of their duties. While often associated with preventing corruption, its significance extends far beyond procedural integrity.
In a democratic system, legitimacy derives not merely from elections but from public trust in governance. Ethical administration ensures transparency, accountability, impartiality, and fairness. Mechanisms such as the Right to Information Act, Lokpal, and citizen charters strengthen institutional credibility and reinforce the rule of law.
Corruption erodes public confidence, widens inequality, and weakens institutional authority. However, even in the absence of corruption, lack of responsiveness or ethical sensitivity can damage democratic legitimacy. Ethical leadership, constitutional morality, and respect for citizen rights are crucial for sustaining democratic values.
Critics argue that excessive moralization may lead to bureaucratic hesitancy or fear of decision-making. Therefore, ethics must be balanced with administrative efficiency and decisiveness.
In India, initiatives promoting transparency, digital governance, and social audits reflect the effort to institutionalize ethical practices.
Thus, administrative ethics is not merely a defensive mechanism against corruption but a foundational pillar of democratic governance and public trust.
Prepared by Shaktimatha Learning
Ethics + Trust + Legitimacy = 15–18/20 Potential
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