| Paper | GS Paper 4 |
| Word Limit | 150 words |
| Syllabus Topic | Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions |
Model Answer
Social media lets anyone reach millions in seconds. It gives a voice to the voiceless and speed to governance. But it also forces hard choices between two good values. These are ethical dilemmas.
Every benefit of social media comes with a competing value
Key Ethical Dilemmas
- Free speech vs harm: Article 19(1)(a) protects speech. But fake news and hate speech can spark violence.
- Privacy vs profit: Platforms earn by selling attention built on personal data. Puttaswamy (2017) made privacy a fundamental right.
- Anonymity vs accountability: It protects whistle-blowers but also shields trolls.
- Engagement vs well-being: Algorithms reward outrage. This creates echo chambers and hurts young minds.
- Truth vs virality: Deepfakes blur the line between real and fake.
- Civil servants: Personal expression vs political neutrality.
Conclusion
Kant asked us to treat people as ends, not means. Laws like the DPDP Act, 2023, responsible platforms and digital literacy can build ethical digital citizenship.
Related PYQs
- The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are in conflict with traditional values. Discuss. (2020)
- Impact of digital technology as reliable source of input for rational decision making is debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable example. (2021)
- The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view. (2024)
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