Ethics, Values, and Good Governance: The Moral Reasoning Layer
What the examiner expects
This domain tests moral reasoning, not slogan recall. Know the major ethical frameworks: utilitarianism (Mill), deontology (Kant's categorical imperative), virtue ethics (Aristotle's golden mean), and social contract theory. Understand public service values: integrity, impartiality, accountability, transparency, and the public interest. Know Bangladesh's institutional anti-corruption framework - the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Right to Information Act 2009, and the Citizens' Charter. Understand conflict of interest, whistleblowing, and ethical decision-making models.
Traps to watch
Examiners present a dilemma and expect you to identify the framework being applied, not to give a personal opinion. Do not confuse utilitarianism (greatest good for the greatest number) with deontology (duty regardless of outcome). Another trap is treating legality and ethics as identical - an act can be legal yet unethical. In governance items, distinguish transparency (openness) from accountability (answerability).
Rule of thumb
For dilemma questions, ask three questions in order: What is the duty? What is the consequence? What would a virtuous person do? The framework named in the stem usually points to the answer.
Worked example
Stem: 'A civil servant refuses a gift that could influence a decision. Which value does this best illustrate?' Reasoning: refusing undue influence is integrity and impartiality, not merely legality. Answer: integrity (with impartiality).