Question.
Define empathy and discuss the role of empathy in solving problems in the weaker section.
(UPPSC GS paper 4 2021)
Answer.
Empathy is one of the highest virtues and it is the feeling we get when we put ourselves in someone else's position and try to relieve their suffering without judgment or criticism.
Empathy is an important value (tool) in ethics as well as an essential virtue that civil servants need to have to make ethical decisions and understand how their actions affect others.
Empathy is an essential value for building meaningful relationships, resolving conflicts, and promoting social justice.
Role of empathy in solving the problems of weaker section:
Empathy helps in understanding the root cause of the problems: Empathy plays a very important role in understanding and solving the problems of the weaker section of society. When we look at the issues of the weaker sections with empathy, we can better understand their needs and work together to resolve the issues. Empathy helps us to develop solutions for the vulnerable rather than just console them.
Empathy is very essential for social justice and fairness: Empathy provides a better understanding of the impact of government policy on a vulnerable section. It helps in making ethical choices and ensures better treatment for the weaker section of the people with all the respect and dignity they deserve.
Empathy is the essential tool to build trust and a unique relationship between civil servants (or government institutions) and the public (or vulnerable sections). It promotes social harmony.
In short, we can say that empathy is a kind of virtue that civil servants must have in order to create a more just and equitable society.
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