1. Which of the following best defines Empathy in public service?
a) Understanding and sharing another person's feelings
b) Ignoring others' emotions
c) Feeling sorry for someone’s suffering
d) Providing financial help to someone in need
Answer: a) Understanding and sharing another person's feelings
Explanation: Empathy involves putting oneself in another’s shoes to truly understand their emotional state. It is critical in governance and leadership for making sensitive, human-centered decisions.
2. How is Compassion different from Sympathy?
a) Compassion is passive; sympathy is action-oriented
b) Sympathy includes action; compassion does not
c) Compassion includes a desire to help; sympathy is just feeling sorry
d) There is no difference; both mean the same
Answer: c) Compassion includes a desire to help; sympathy is just feeling sorry
Explanation: Compassion is empathy + action — it motivates one to alleviate another’s suffering, while sympathy often stops at feeling sad or sorry for someone.
3. Which of the following is the best example of Apathy in administration?
a) The officer tries to understand the citizen’s concern but is unable to help
b) The officer expresses sorrow over a poor man's hardship
c) The officer ignores complaints and shows no concern for citizens' suffering
d) Officer listens attentively but follows the rules strictly
Answer: c). The Officer ignores complaints and shows no concern for citizens' suffering
Explanation: Apathy means a lack of interest or concern. In public service, this leads to poor governance, corruption, and loss of public trust.
4. Why is Empathy considered important in public policy making?
a) It helps in making policies that are people-centric and sensitive
b) It ensures objective technical solutions
c) It helps officials avoid emotional decisions
d It removes the need for consultation
Answer: c). It helps in making policies that are people-centric and sensitive
Explanation: Empathy helps policymakers understand the real problems of citizens, especially vulnerable sections, and leads to inclusive and compassionate governance.
5. Which emotional response is most likely to lead to ethical decision-making in a crisis situation?
a) Apathy
b) Sympathy
c) Indifference
d) Compassion
Answer: d) Compassion
Explanation: Compassion not only connects one emotionally but also drives ethical action. It leads to responsible, humane decisions during crises, especially in a public service role.
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