Explore the conflict between individual interests and societal welfare in this upsc essay pyq 2019, highlighting the balance between personal gain and social good.
Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society
Paraphrase
This essay examines the conflict between personal interests and the well-being of society, focusing on instances where individual gains clash with the common good.
Intent of the Essay
The essay aims to explore how personal decisions can occasionally have detrimental effects on society, emphasizing the need for a balance between individual freedom and social responsibility.
Keywords
Individualism, Collective Good, Social Responsibility, Ethical Dilemmas, Public Interest
Key Arguments
Individual Interests vs. Collective Welfare
People often prioritize personal gains, which can undermine community values, leading to issues like inequality or environmental harm.
Example: The growing consumer culture emphasizes self-interest, contributing to resource depletion and climate change.
Ethical Dilemmas in Decision Making
Individuals often face moral challenges where personal gain conflicts with societal norms.
Example: A business owner might increase profits by lowering wages or harming the environment.
Evidence: Case studies show companies exploiting labor laws for profit, sparking public backlash but often justified by economic competition.
Public Good vs. Self-Interest
What benefits individuals may not contribute to the welfare of society, such as hoarding resources during a crisis.
Individual actions often lead to societal unrest or division.
Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, hoarding supplies created shortages that harmed vulnerable populations.
Legal Frameworks and Regulations
Laws and regulations are designed to align individual actions with the collective good.
Example: Environmental laws are necessary to prevent businesses from exploiting resources irresponsibly.
Evidence: Successful Clean Air Acts in several countries demonstrate the importance of regulations in promoting public health over individual business interests.
Social Responsibility and Civic Duty
Individuals have a moral duty to contribute to society, which may require sacrificing personal interests.
Volunteerism and philanthropy strengthen community well-being.
Evidence: Nonprofit organizations show that community service addresses social issues and fosters collective solidarity.
Case Studies/Examples
Case Study
Key Insights
Relevance
Environmental Regulations
Countries implementing strict environmental regulations have seen improved air quality and public health.
Illustrates how individual actions can have broader societal implications.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Companies adopting CSR practices not only improve their public image but also contribute to societal welfare.
Highlights the benefits of aligning business practices with social good.
COVID-19 Response
The importance of community cooperation in vaccination drives highlights that individual decisions can support or undermine public health efforts.
Emphasizes the necessity of collective action over self-interest during crises.
Additional Tips
Examine utilitarianism to support the idea of prioritizing the greater good in policy decisions.
Explore the role of education in cultivating social responsibility and encouraging individuals to contribute positively to society.
Highlight case studies that showcase successful community-driven projects that started with individual initiatives.
Analyze how economic policies can encourage behaviors that align personal gains with broader societal benefits.
