Philosophical basis of Integrity

Intro –

Background – The term integrity comes from the Latin word in-tangere, which means untouched. [Hence uncompromisable principles]
Definition – Integrity is strict adherence to moral principles irrespective of place, time, and context. Hence it is a complete refusal to be compromised.
Quote – “Wisdom is knowing the right path, integrity is walking on it” – Mary Harrison McKee
Current – Recently, Govt of India launched mission Karmyogi to instill integrity in the Indian administration.
Formula – Core values (Like honesty, accountability, etc) + Perseverance = Integrity

Role in administration –

Integrity in the administration increases the efficiency of the organization
1. Ex – Dr Samit Sharma IAS
It increases trust b/w various stakeholders [Citizens, public representatives, staff members, seniors, juniors]
It helps in making the most appropriate decision while in a dilemma. Avoid situations like a conflict of interest
1. For example, An officer with integrity would never succumb to the pressure of seniors, relatives, or any family member even if he/she has to compromise with a personal relationship at that moment. He/she would do the right thing only because it is right
2. Ex – Satyendra Dubey IES
To save oneself from undue political pressure
1. Ex – Naripendra Mishra IAS
Uphold the core values like Accountability and transparency in administration

Philosophical basis of Integrity –

Basis	Concepts that leads to integrity
Inner conviction	Conscience [Gandhi] Spiritual enlightenment [Buddha] Inherent moral values [Values like compassion might be genetic] According to Mayo Clinic, researchers estimate that 30–60% of kindness is genetically determined
Ancient Indian Philosophy	Vedas – Rigveda (Rit and Rin) Upanishad, Geeta, Smrities, Sanhitas – Purusarthas – Dharma, Arth, Kaam and Moksha Satyamev Jayate – Mundaka Upanishad Maa Gridha Kasasyvidanam – Isavasyoupanishad Chankya’s Arthshastra
Modern Indian Philosophy	Vivekananda, Gandhi, Constitution, Preamble etc
Western Philosophy	Socrates – Knowledge is supreme Plato – Harmonious functioning [Mind, Body and soul] Aristotle – Principle of Golden mean John Rawl – Veil of ignorance (Impartiality) Kant – Duty is supreme Stoicism – Without suffering, Life can’t sustain Jeremy bentham – Your work should benefit maximum people Max Weber – Impersonal to avoid misuse of power The movement of good governance by world bank 1992 [Special emphasis on integrity in administration]

Conclusion –

Summary – Hence, Instilling integrity is a must for administrative excellence.
Slogan – Be it internal or external sources, by embracing integrity in life, an administrator can do true justice with the motto Sheelam Param Bhusanam.