Utilitarianism vs Deontology in Governance
TOPIC CLASSIFICATION
Subject: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude (GS Paper-IV)
Sub-topic: Utilitarianism vs Deontology - Ethical Theories in Governance, Policy Making, Administrative Decisions
Mains GS Paper-IV: Ethical theories in public administration; consequentialist vs duty-based approaches in policy decisions.
EXAMINER REASONING
UPSC tests your ability to apply ethical theories to real governance dilemmas. The examiner wants to see: (a) Clear distinction between utilitarianism (consequences matter) and deontology (duties/rules matter); (b) Application to governance - resource allocation, triage, whistleblowing, emergency powers, minority rights vs majority welfare; (c) Critique of both - utilitarianism can justify rights violations for greater good; deontology can lead to rigid, harmful outcomes; (d) Synthesis - rule utilitarianism, threshold deontology, constitutional constraints. The examiner's favourite framing: "Should a civil servant lie to save lives?" (Classic utilitarian vs deontological dilemma)
Core Concept
| Dimension | Utilitarianism (Consequentialism) | Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Principle | Maximize overall happiness/wellbeing (Greatest Good for Greatest Number) | Follow moral rules/duties regardless of consequences |
| Key Thinkers | Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, Henry Sidgwick | Immanuel Kant, W.D. Ross (prima facie duties) |
| Moral Judgement | Based on outcomes/consequences | Based on **intent, duty, rule... |
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