Ethical dilemmas arise when public administrators face conflicting values and principles in decision-making, demanding careful navigation between competing interests. This requires a robust framework for resolution, ensuring decisions align with ethical standards and public interest.

Ethical Dilemmas and their Resolution

Ethical dilemmas in public administration involve situations where officials must choose between competing values, often with significant consequences. This necessitates a structured approach to decision-making, guided by ethical frameworks like deontology (Kant) and consequentialism (Mill).

Identifying the Ethical Dilemma: Clearly define the conflicting values and interests at stake.

• Example: A district collector faces a dilemma between implementing a development project benefiting the majority but displacing a vulnerable tribal community, highlighting the conflict between development and social justice.

Gathering Relevant Information: Collect comprehensive data from diverse sources to understand the context and potential impacts of different choices.

• Example: The collector consults with the tribal community, development experts, legal advisors, and reviews environmental impact assessments before deciding on the project.

Evaluating Options and their Ethical Implications: Analyze each potential course of action through the lens of ethical principles, considering their short-term and long-term consequences.

• Example: The collector evaluates options like project relocation, adequate compensation, and community rehabilitation, assessing their alignment with principles of fairness, justice, and transparency.

Ensuring Ethical Governance

Ethical decision-making is crucial for public administrators to maintain public trust, ensure accountability, and promote good governance. A structured approach to resolving dilemmas fosters transparency and strengthens the ethical foundations of public service, contributing to a just and equitable society, as envisioned in the Indian Constitution (Article 14 – Equality before law).