An ethical dilemma in public administration occurs when a public official is faced with a choice between two or more competing values or interests.
Ethical Dilemmas in Civil Services
Development vs. Displacement- Narmada Bachao Andolan (Medha Patkar vs. State).
Confidentiality vs. Transparency- Whistleblowing
Political Pressure vs. Neutrality
Freedom of Speech vs. Public Order
Environment vs. Livelihood
Efficiency vs. Equity
Personal Ethics vs. Professional Duty
Loyalty vs. Truth
Process of Resolving Ethical Dilemmas
Identification of the Ethical Issue – clearly define the conflicting values and recognize the stakes for all parties involved is the primary step.
Information Gathering – collect all relevant data, consult subject matter experts, and understand the ground reality of the situation.
Analyzing the Legal Framework – The decision must first pass the test of Legality.
Applying Ethical Frameworks for evaluating options
Utilitarianism- Which choice brings the “greatest good for the greatest number”?
Deontology- What is my absolute “Duty” as a public servant?
Social Justice (Rawls)- Does this decision benefit the “least advantaged” member of society?
The âmiddle pathâ to balance the extremes.
Assess the impact of various options on different stakeholders.
Final Decision and Review – After choosing the most ethical path, the official should implement the decision and monitor its impact for course correction.
Resolving ethical dilemmas is an exercise in Constitutional Morality. Under Mahatma Gandhiâs Talisman, the ultimate resolution of any dilemma lies in whether the decision empowers the weakest.