Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: A Guide for UPSC Aspirants

In our daily lives, personal and professional spheres are riddled with ethical dilemmas that challenge our moral compass. Whether in public or private sectors, these dilemmas demand our attention and understanding, irrespective of the organisation's size. It is crucial to comprehend what constitutes an ethical dilemma to navigate and resolve it effectively.

What Exactly Is an Ethical Dilemma?

Meaning: A situation requiring a choice between two morally conflicting options, both of which have undesirable outcomes.

Ethical vs. Nonmoral Dilemmas: Ethical dilemmas involve moral principles, unlike nonmoral dilemmas, which are based on preferences 

Why Are Ethical Dilemmas a Challenge?

Ethical dilemmas present a unique set of challenges because:

They force a choice between equally important moral values, making it impossible to adhere to one's moral convictions fully.

Types of Ethical Dilemmas

1. Truth vs. Loyalty

2. Individual vs. Community

3. Short Term vs. Long Term

4. Justice vs. Virtue

For UPSC aspirants, grappling with ethical dilemmas is essential as it helps resolve case studies, which form an important part of GS IV Mains Ethics exams. 

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