Ethics: February 2024 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

First Human Neuralink Implant

Context

As per the computer-brain interface company Neuralink, the first human has received a brain chip implant and is recovering well.

How do neurons work?

Nerve cells or neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system. Multiple interconnected neurons form a neural circuit and use electrical and chemical signals to quickly transmit information among themselves and throughout the body. 

About Neuralink brain implant/chip

• Rationale: Neuralink is working on linking the nervous system to computers, with efforts aimed at helping treat brain disorders, overcoming brain injuries, and other applications.
• Aim: To give people the ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone or “just by thinking”. The initial users would be those who have lost use of their limbs. 

Working of the brain chip

• Implantation: The chip, roughly the size of a small coin, is implanted into the motor cortex of the brain through a minor surgical procedure via a robotic surgery. The chip consists of thin, flexible threads/wires containing electrodes which are inserted into specific brain regions, aiming to record neural activity. 
• Data Acquisition: The electrodes pick up electrical signals generated by neurons firing, translating brain activity into digital information. The chip processes this data, identifying patterns and translating them into meaningful actions.
• Communication: The processed data is wirelessly transmitted to an external device (like a computer or phone) via a low-power transmitter.

Risks

• This technology is still evolving, and its long-term impact on humans is unknown. Additionally, brain surgery has significant potential risks such as brain haemorrhage or seizures.

Questions and Case Studies

Q1: Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context?
(a) ‘‘The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer’’. –Mahatma Gandhi
(b) ‘‘To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Once she is on the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation moves.’’ –Jawaharlal Nehru
(c) ‘‘Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle.’’ Swami Vivekananda
Ans: (a): Mahatma Gandhi's above quote, emphasises the significance of compassionate actions over mere rituals or gestures. In the present context, this quote resonates with the importance of practical kindness and societal impact.

• Tangible Impact of Philanthropy: Azim Premji, the founder of Wipro, has donated a significant portion of his wealth to education through the Azim Premji Foundation, positively impacting the lives of millions of underprivileged children.
• Community-Based Initiatives: The Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) in India empowers women from low-income backgrounds through various economic and social initiatives.
• Empowerment Through Microfinance: Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus's pioneering work in microfinance through Grameen Bank has provided microloans to impoverished individuals, helping them escape poverty and build sustainable livelihoods.
• Social Entrepreneurs' Impact: Social entrepreneurs like Arunachalam Muruganantham, known as the "Padman" of India, have made substantial contributions by addressing critical social issues.
• His low-cost sanitary pad-making machines have improved menstrual hygiene and women's health in rural areas.
• Kindness in Education: Institutions like the Akshaya Patra Foundation exemplify the transformative potential of kindness by providing mid-day meals to school children, they not only address hunger but also incentivize education.

(b): Jawaharlal Nehru's above statement underscores the pivotal role of women in driving societal progress and transformation. In the contemporary context, this quote emphasises the significance of women's empowerment and their contribution to broader societal development.

Women's Multifaceted Impact on Society:

• Contribution of Women in Shaping Values: Indian mothers, through their teachings of respect for elders and kindness towards others, play a key role in shaping values that emphasize family bonds and social harmony.
• Empowerment for Economic Growth: India's Self-Help Group (SHG) movement, particularly in states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, has empowered women economically enabling them to start and manage businesses effectively.
• Women's Education as a Catalyst: The "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) campaign in India seeks to address gender bias and promote female education, fostering a more enlightened society.
• Women in Political Leadership: Indira Gandhi, as India's first female Prime Minister, demonstrated the potential of women in political leadership and made significant policy contributions during her tenure.
• Women's Role in Sustainable Development: Vandana Shiva, an environmental activist, has championed sustainable agriculture and the preservation of biodiversity, emphasizing the interconnectedness of women, environment, and development.

(c): The above quote of Swami Vivekanand throws light on the boomerang effect of human behavior. Hatred can lead to retaliation, while acts of love can trigger a chain of kindness and reciprocity.

Hatred's Boomerang Effect:

• Cyberbullying on Social Media: Perpetrators of online hate speech may become targets of similar behavior, experiencing online harassment as a consequence of their actions.
• Divisive Political Rhetoric: Politicians employing divisive language may face public backlash and protests from citizens who oppose their rhetoric.
• Religious Extremism and Global Response: Extremist groups promoting hatred based on religion may provoke international intervention and efforts to counter their ideologies.

Love's Boomerang Effect:

• Chain of Kindness: Small acts of love and kindness can inspire a ripple effect, encouraging others to perform similar acts of goodwill.
• Community Support and Cohesion: Communities fostering love and support among members tend to experience increased safety and cooperation during crises.
• International Aid and Reciprocity: Countries providing foreign aid and humanitarian assistance often receive support in return during their own times of need, highlighting the reciprocal nature of compassion in international relations.

Q2: (a). Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision-making? Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 
(b). Probity is essential for an effective system of government and socio-economic development. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
Ans: (a): Law prescribes actions through due process for the common good and imposes obligations, while conscience is our innate ability to distinguish right from wrong. Each has strengths and limitations, with superiority context-dependent.

• Conscience:
• Strengths:
  • Personal Morality: An internal moral compass that can guide ethical decision-making based on one's personal sense of right and wrong.
  • Flexibility: Conscience values complexity and uniqueness, allowing for thoughtful consideration of individual situations beyond established laws.
• Limitations:
  • Influence of Bias: Conscience influenced by biases, culture, upbringing can lead to questionable ethics.
  • Inconsistent Application: Conscience can evolve, leading to inconsistency in ethical choices.
• Laws, Rules, and Regulations:
• Strengths:
  • Clarity: They establish ethical guidelines for society and organizations.
  • Accountability: They impose consequences for wrongdoing, discouraging unethical actions.
  • Protection of Rights: Laws and regulations can protect the rights and well-being of individuals and society as a whole.
• Limitations:
  • Rigidity: Laws often struggle to keep pace with changing social norms and evolving ethics.
  • Moral Blind Spots: Legal systems may not fully address all ethical dilemmas.
  • Enforcement: Enforcing laws is tough, and unethical behavior can persist through loopholes.

Conscience and laws/rules/regulations play crucial roles in ethical decisions. Conscience relies on universal ethics and bias control, while laws offer structure but need regular updates to stay fair.

(b): Probity means adherence to the highest principles and ideals. It is the foundation of moral principles like honesty and integrity. It's crucial for good governance and socio-economic progress, as it ensures officials prioritize the public, adhere to the law, and uphold transparency and accountability.
Probity in governance affects various aspects of socio-economic development:

• Resource allocation: Probity in governance means efficient and corruption-free resource allocation.
• Promotes competition: Probity fosters innovation and fair competition, eliminating cronyism, nepotism, and favoritism for an equitable economy.
• Equity: It ensures fair, impartial policies, respecting all citizens, especially the marginalized.
• Reduces inequalities: Probity reduces inequality by preventing public officials from using their power for personal gain.
• Inclusion: It ensures that public services and facilities are accessible and affordable to all citizens, without any discrimination or exclusion.
• Sustainability: Probity in governance means making decisions that consider environmental, social, and economic sustainability for both current and future generations.
• Enhances resilience: It boosts society's resilience by preparing officials to handle natural disasters, climate change, and pandemics effectively.

Probity in governance is vital for effective government, trust, transparency, and societal progress. All stakeholders, including officials, civil society, media, and citizens, should promote and protect it.

Q3: (a). What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. (Answer in 150 words)
(b). Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? (Answer in 150 words)
Ans: (a) Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, imparted a profound set of teachings that continue to hold immense relevance in the contemporary world.
His major teachings are as follows:

• Oneness of God (Ik Onkar): Guru Nanak emphasized the belief in one universal God, rejecting the notion of multiple deities. This monotheistic doctrine promotes religious tolerance and unity, which is crucial in a world marked by religious diversity and conflicts.
• Equality and Social Justice: Guru Nanak championed equality, inspiring Sikhism's values of justice, gender parity, and service. His teachings remain a beacon of hope in our modern struggle against discrimination and inequality.
• Selfless Service (Seva): Guru Nanak promoted 'Seva,' selfless service to humanity, fostering compassion, altruism, and a sense of responsibility, still relevant today.
• Interfaith Dialogue: Guru Nanak fostered interfaith harmony through dialogues, stressing unity in diversity. His teachings remain vital for global peace and coexistence.
• Rejecting Rituals and Superstitions: Guru Nanak rejected empty rituals and superstitions, emphasizing a personal connection with God, which appeals to those seeking a deeper, more meaningful faith.
• In the contemporary world, Guru Nanak's teachings inspire inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious societies, addressing modern issues like religious intolerance and social inequality, guiding us toward a more enlightened and equitable future.

(b) Social capital is the network of connections, trust, and shared values within a community that fosters effective collaboration and the pursuit of common objectives. Social capital plays a crucial role in enhancing good governance in several ways:

• It can foster civic engagement and participation, which can increase the accountability and responsiveness of governance institutions.
• It can facilitate collective action and problem-solving, which can improve the delivery of public goods and services.
• It can promote social cohesion and inclusion, which can reduce conflicts and violence and enhance social justice.
• It can reduce transaction costs and information asymmetries, and increase coordination and cooperation among different actors.
• It can stimulate innovation and learning, which can enhance the adaptability and effectiveness of governance systems.
• Social capital is crucial for good governance, fostering trust, cooperation, civic engagement, and collective action. Recognizing its value, governments should actively nurture and safeguard social capital to enhance democratic institutions and societal well-being.

Q4: A Iandslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July, 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximately 60 kilometres from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of property and life. You, as District Magistrate of that area, have rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue operations. A man came running to you with a request for urgent medical help for his pregnant wife who is in labour and is losing blood. You directed your medical team to examine his wife. They return and convey to you that this woman needs blood transfusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come to know that a few blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your team have already volunteered to donate blood. Being a physician who has graduated from AIIMS, you know that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a recognized blood bank. Your team members are divided on this issue; some favour transfusion, while some others oppose it. The doctors in the team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not penalized for transfusion. Now you are in a dilemma. Your professional training emphasizes on prioritising service to humanity and saving lives of individuals.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
(b) Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area.
Ans: Ethical Issues:

• Patient Welfare: The paramount ethical concern is the life-threatening condition of the pregnant woman and her unborn child, necessitating immediate medical intervention due to severe bleeding.
• Blood Safety: The use of blood for transfusion that is not sourced from a recognized blood bank raises serious safety concerns.
• Informed Consent: It is essential to consider whether the patient or her family has been informed about the risks and benefits of the blood transfusion, if it is not from a recognized source.
• Medical Ethics: Medical professionals within the team are torn between their commitment to saving lives and the need to adhere to medical ethics and standards.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The situation raises questions about legal and regulatory compliance regarding blood transfusions.
• Options Available:
• Seek Blood from a Recognized Blood Bank: The District Magistrate should prioritize patient safety and adhere to medical ethics by arranging for blood from a recognized blood bank.
• Local Blood Collection with Screening: If feasible, conduct a rapid blood group test on potential donors from the team.
• Expert Consultation: Reach out to medical experts for guidance and advice on the best course of action given the circumstances.
• The decision should prioritize patient safety and adhere to ethical, medical, and legal standards. While the urgency of the situation is critical, compromising on blood safety can have severe consequences. Clear communication with the medical team, seeking expert advice if needed, and making an informed decision that best balances the ethical, medical, and regulatory considerations is crucial in this challenging situation.

Q5: You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government, One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal's office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son's changed behaviour. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest. After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague's son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to the perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children on the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son's predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.
(a) Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media. 
(b) Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family.
Ans: (a) Ethical Issues involved in the case:

• Privacy and Consent: Sharing someone's image without consent violates their privacy.
• Cyberbullying and Harassment: Posting derogatory content online constitutes cyberbullying and harassment.
• Disinformation and False Accusations: Spreading false information can harm reputations and needs responsible sharing.
• Online Accountability: Publicly shaming individuals without proper evidence raises concerns about fairness.
• Misuse of Technology: Misuse of technology and social media platforms to perpetuate harm, disseminate false information, and engage in cyberbullying.
• Impact on Relationships: Negative online content can strain real-life relationships, highlighting the need for ethical online behavior and digital literacy.

(b) Using social media to counter false propaganda against your family has both pros and cons.

Pros:

• Immediate Response: Quickly address false allegations or misinformation to prevent their spread.
• Wide Reach: Reach a diverse audience to correct the narrative effectively.
• Transparency: Demonstrate authenticity with evidence on social media.
• Engagement: Interact directly with the audience, providing context.
• Mobilization of Support: Gain support from friends, colleagues, and strangers.
• Educational Opportunity: Raise awareness about online behavior's consequences.

Cons:

• Escalation: Risk of exacerbating the situation and facing online harassment.
• Privacy Concerns: Compromising family privacy and inviting threats.
• Misinterpretation: Efforts to clarify may still lead to confusion.
• Negative Backlash: Unpredictable public opinion can result in backlash.
• Emotional Toll: Dealing with online harassment can be emotionally draining.
• Legal Implications: Depending on what you share on social media, there could be legal consequences.
• Using social media to counter false propaganda can be a double-edged sword. It can be an effective way to set the record straight and raise awareness, but it also comes with risks and potential negative consequences. It's crucial to approach such situations thoughtfully, seeking legal advice if necessary, and considering the well-being and privacy of your family above all else.

Q6: Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three years.  His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge, affability and uprightness. The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corporation and the highhandedness of the Chairman in financial matters. A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Opposition Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to be demanding bribes for placing a huge order for the supply of QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting clearing of pending bills of QMR tyres. Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof he has with him. The member informs him that the Chairman refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn recognition and public support if he himself exposes the Chairman. Further, he tells Vinod that once his party comes to power. Vinod's professional growth would be assured. Vinod is aware that he may be penalized if he exposes the Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place. He knows that the Opposition Party stands a better chance of coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also realizes that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own political gains.
(a) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod.
(b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.
Ans: (a): Vinod, a conscientious civil servant, faces the ethical dilemma of exposing alleged corruption involving the Chairman, aligning with his integrity and accountability principles, or remaining silent to avoid potential personal and professional consequences.
Here are the options available to him:

• Expose the Chairman and Alleged Corruption:
  • Pro: Upholds integrity and ethical values by combating corruption.
  • Con: Risk of retaliation and potential harm to his career, including transfers to remote areas.
• Stay Silent and Continue with Duties:
  • Pro: Avoids potential personal and professional risks.
  • Con: Fails in his duty to address corruption and uphold ethical standards.
• Seek Legal and Internal Remedies:
  • Pro: Upholds ethics by following due process and the rule of law.
  • Con: May face obstacles in getting a fair internal investigation, given the Chairman's influence.
• Engage in Whistleblower Protection Measures:
  • Pro: Balances the need to expose corruption with self-protection.
  • Con: Could still face professional and personal consequences, although to a lesser extent.

(b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.

• Compromised Integrity: Political pressure can compromise bureaucrats' integrity.
• Misuse of Power: Bureaucrats may misuse authority for political or personal gain.
• Partisan Decision-Making: Politicization leads to biased decision-making.
• Diminished Accountability: Accountability becomes challenging in a politicized environment.
• Instrumentalization of Civil Servants: Politicians may exploit civil servants for political purposes.
• Erosion of Public Trust: Politicization erodes public trust in government institutions.
• Normalization of Unethical Practices: Unethical behavior can become the norm.