Information asymmetry is an ethical failure, not merely an administrative one. Evaluate its implications for democratic governance. Assess the role of RTI in addressing this challenge.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Q7. Information asymmetry is an ethical failure, not merely an administrative one. Evaluate its implications for democratic governance. Assess the role of RTI in addressing this challenge. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question Information control by the state has emerged as a critical ethical concern amid expanding executive discretion, digital governance, and declining public trust. Key demand of the question The question requires examining information asymmetry as an ethical issue beyond administrative inefficiency, analysing its consequences for democratic governance, and evaluating how the RTI framework addresses this ethical deficit. Structure of the answer Introduction Briefly anchor the discussion in democratic ethics, public trust, and the moral basis of the citizen–state relationship. Body Explain why information asymmetry constitutes an ethical failure in public authority. Examine how such asymmetry affects democratic values like participation, equality, and accountability. Assess the role of RTI in correcting ethical imbalances through transparency and citizen empowerment. Conclusion Emphasise ethical governance as a balance between power and transparency, with RTI as a continuing moral instrument rather than a mere legal tool.
Why the question
Information control by the state has emerged as a critical ethical concern amid expanding executive discretion, digital governance, and declining public trust.
Key demand of the question
The question requires examining information asymmetry as an ethical issue beyond administrative inefficiency, analysing its consequences for democratic governance, and evaluating how the RTI framework addresses this ethical deficit.
Structure of the answer
Introduction Briefly anchor the discussion in democratic ethics, public trust, and the moral basis of the citizen–state relationship.
• Explain why information asymmetry constitutes an ethical failure in public authority.
• Examine how such asymmetry affects democratic values like participation, equality, and accountability.
• Assess the role of RTI in correcting ethical imbalances through transparency and citizen empowerment.
Conclusion Emphasise ethical governance as a balance between power and transparency, with RTI as a continuing moral instrument rather than a mere legal tool.