Introduction:
The life of Bhishma Pitamah from the Mahabharata is a rich source of ethical values and moral dilemmas, many of which are highly relevant to the UPSC Ethics Paper (GS Paper IV).
Below is a structured list of ethical values and principles, along with explanations and how they relate to the UPSC Ethics syllabus:
1. Dharma (Sense of Duty)
Bhishma took a lifelong vow of celibacy and service to the throne of Hastinapura.
Ethical Value: Commitment to duty over personal desires.
UPSC Angle: A civil servant must often make personal sacrifices for constitutional values and the public good.
2. Sacrifice and Renunciation (Tyag)
Bhishma gave up his right to the throne and family life for his father's happiness and the kingdom's stability.
Ethical Value: Putting the greater good above self-interest.
UPSC Link: Relevant to emotional intelligence and a trait expected in leadership and administration.
3. Loyalty to Institution over Individuals:
Bhishma remained loyal to the throne of Hastinapur even when it meant standing with the Kauravas.
Ethical Conflict: Loyalty vs. moral correctness.
UPSC Angle: This reflects the conflict between institutional loyalty and ethical objectivity—a classic dilemma for civil servants.
4. Moral Dilemma and Decision-Making:
Bhishma knew the Kauravas were wrong, yet he fought for them out of his vow.
Ethical Principle: Dharma Sankat (conflict of duty vs. conscience).
UPSC Topic: Ethical dilemma and the importance of conscience in decision-making.
5. Self-Control and Restraint
Despite being a mighty warrior, Bhishma never used his power unjustly or with anger.
Ethical Value: Discipline and restraint even in positions of power.
UPSC Relevance: Essential for public servants to act with maturity, especially under pressure.
6. Justice vs. Obedience
Though Bhishma knew Draupadi was wronged, he remained silent in the court due to loyalty to the throne.
Ethical Learning: Silence in the face of injustice can amount to complicity.
GS IV Link: The importance of moral courage and speaking up against wrongs even in a system.
7. Wisdom and Guidance (Rajadharma)
Bhishma advised Yudhishthira on good governance (Rajadharma) while lying on the bed of arrows.
Ethical Value: Mentorship, public service ethics, and constitutional morality.
UPSC Relevance: Aligns with philosophical and moral thinkers and values in governance.
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon