Examples of Ethics
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### GS Paper 4
Syllabus: Applications of Ethics
Example 1: Ban on Diversity Programs in the US
Source: TH
Context: Many U.S. universities have ended diversity programs, impacting minority students.
What are Diversity Programs?
Diversity programs in US universities aim to address inequalities by giving special consideration to minority students, such as Black, Indian American, Hispanic, and Native American students. These programs include initiatives like affirmative action in admissions, race-based scholarships, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. They seek to promote diversity and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups in higher education.
Ethical issues concerned here are:
• Equal Opportunity vs. Meritocracy: The debate over whether affirmative action and diversity programs promote equal opportunity for minority students or undermine the principle of meritocracy
• Academic Freedom vs. Ideological Control: The restrictions and bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs raise concerns about academic freedom and the imposition of ideological control over educational institutions
• Ethical Responsibilities of Institutions: Universities and educational institutions grapple with their ethical responsibilities to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Ethical implications of rolling back diversity initiatives prompt questions about societal moral obligations to address systemic racism and promote equity.
• Systemic Inequality: The long-standing inequalities faced by minority students in higher education, including disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and representation
Example 2: Sending Indian Workers to Conflict Zone
Source: Scroll
Context: The first batch of 64 Indian construction workers from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh is heading to Israel amid the Gaza war. Israeli construction industry requested 100,000 Indian workers to replace Palestinians.
The NSDC International (with 49% government ownership), facilitates Indian workers’ mobility to Israel under a Government-to-Government agreement
Advantages:
• Economic Opportunity: Indian workers have access to higher wages in Israel compared to their home country, providing economic opportunities for them and their families.
• Skill Development: Workers gain valuable skills and experience through international work, potentially improving their long-term employability and earning potential.
• Diplomatic Relations: Facilitating the movement of workers between India and Israel strengthens diplomatic ties and promotes cooperation between the two nations.
• Meeting Labour Demand: Israel’s construction industry benefits from the influx of skilled labour to fill gaps created by the cancellation of Palestinian work permits.
Ethical Concerns:
• Safety and Security: Sending workers to a conflict zone raises concerns about their safety and well-being amid ongoing violence and instability.
• Exploitation: There’s a risk of workers from outside Israel being mistreated or exploited, particularly if they lack adequate legal protections or support systems.
• Moral Dilemmas: Workers may face ethical dilemmas when witnessing or being exposed to violence, suffering, or human rights abuses, potentially leading to psychological trauma.
• Displacement of Local Workers: Importing foreign labour may negatively impact local Palestinian workers by reducing job opportunities or driving down wages in the region’s labour market.
A framework agreement ensures the safety of Indian workers in Israel:
• Indian workers receive equal labour rights as Israeli citizens.
• They are provided with proper lodging, medical insurance, social security coverage, and lawful wages and benefits.