Latest News
EDITORIALS & ARTICLES
The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Markss (UPSC IAS Mains 2024 General Studies Paper – 4)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into decision-making processes to improve efficiency, accuracy, and objectivity in administrative functions. By using algorithms and data-driven insights, AI enhances rational decision-making, yet raises ethical concerns around bias, transparency, and accountability.
Benefits
- Efficiency:AI can process vast amounts of data quickly, potentially speeding up administrative processes (e.g., in tax assessments).
• Consistency:AI systems can apply rules uniformly, reducing arbitrary decisions (across different jurisdictions).
• Reduced human bias: AI may minimize personal prejudices in decision-making (especially in recruitment processes).
Ethical challenges
- Accountability:It’s unclear who bears responsibility for AI-driven decisions – the algorithm, its creators, or the administrators using it (in case of errors).
• Transparency:Many AI systems operate as “black boxes,” making it difficult to explain their decision-making process.
• Privacy: AI requires large datasets, raising concerns about data protection and potential misuse (of sensitive personal information).
• Fairness: AI systems may perpetuate or amplify existing societal biases if not carefully designed and monitored (affecting marginalized communities disproportionately).
• Human autonomy: Over-reliance on AI could diminish human judgment and discretion in administration (potentially eroding public trust).
Balancing AI and human input:
- Implement AI as a tool to support, not replace, human decision-makers.
• Ensure human oversight and final authority on critical decisions.
• Develop clear ethical guidelines for AI use in administration.
• Regularly audit AI systems for bias and effectiveness.
• Maintain transparency in AI-assisted decision-making processes.
• Invest in AI literacy for administrators to understand the technology’s capabilities and limitations.
Ethically integrating AI in administrative decision-making requires careful balance, robust safeguards, and ongoing human oversight to ensure fairness and accountability.
GET OUR ETHICS AND INTEGRITY BOOK - https://crackingiasbooks.com/product/ethics-integrity-2-volumes/
POSTED ON 08-04-2025 BY ADMIN
Next previous 
General Studies
Political Science and International Relations
Some Reference Essays
List of previous year essay topics (1997-2019)
IAS GOOGLE is googled by the team of Raja Sir’s Cracking IAS Academy. Sources include The Hindu, Indian Express, pib.nic.in, Down To Earth, Economic Times, Vigyan Prasar, AIR and the like. IAS GOOGLE has been prepared in pace with emerging UPSC Trends.