(a) “The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject anything, is not whether it has any evil in it; but whether it has more evil than good. There are few things wholly evil or wholly good. Almost everything, especially governmental policy, is an inseparable compound of the two; so that our best judgement of the preponderance between them is continually demanded. ”Abraham Lincoln ( 150 words)

This quote by Abraham Lincoln highlights the complexity of evaluating decisions in public administration. Lincoln is emphasising the importance of considering both the positive and negative aspects of any decision or policy, rather than simply focusing on one aspect. He argues that there are few things that are completely good or completely evil, and that most decisions involve a balance of both. Therefore, the key to making sound decisions in public administration is to weigh the positive and negative aspects and determine which outweighs the other.

For example, consider a decision to implement a new transportation policy in a city. The policy may have positive aspects, such as reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality, but it may also have negative aspects, such as increased costs for taxpayers or reduced accessibility for certain populations. To make a sound decision, it is important to carefully evaluate both the positive and negative aspects of the policy and determine which outweighs the other. This requires a nuanced and thoughtful approach to decision-making, which is what Lincoln is advocating for in this quote.

(b) “Anger and intolerance are the enemies of correct understanding. “ Mahatma Gandhi (150 words)

To me, this quote by Mahatma Gandhi means that when we allow ourselves to be consumed by anger and intolerance, we become unable to see things clearly and understand them correctly. Our judgement becomes clouded, and we are more likely to make decisions based on emotion rather than reason.

For example, let''s say that a public administrator is facing a difficult decision regarding the allocation of resources for a community project. There are several stakeholders with competing interests, and tensions are high. If the administrator allows themselves to be consumed by anger and intolerance towards one of the stakeholders, they may be more likely to make a decision that favours their own interests, rather than considering what is best for the community as a whole. This could lead to negative consequences, such as a loss of trust and credibility with stakeholders, and even legal or ethical violations. Therefore, it is important for public administrators to strive for a clear and unbiased understanding of the situation, even in the face of anger and intolerance.

(c) “Falsehood takes the place of truth when it results in unblemished common good.” Tirukkural (150 words)

The quotation "Falsehood takes the place of truth when it results in unblemished common good" from Tirukkural suggests that in certain situations, it may be acceptable to use falsehoods or lies in order to achieve a greater good for society. However, the common good must be unblemished, meaning that the negative consequences of the falsehood should not outweigh the positive results.

This quote raises ethical and moral questions about the use of deception in public administration. While there may be situations where deception could be justified in order to achieve an important public good, such as protecting national security, preventing harm to citizens, or preserving the integrity of the democratic process, it is important to carefully consider the potential negative consequences of such actions.

For example, in the context of a public health crisis, a government may need to provide false information about the severity of the situation in order to prevent panic and maintain social order. However, this could also lead to a lack of trust in the government and undermine future public health efforts.

Ultimately, while the quote suggests that there may be situations where falsehoods can be used to achieve a greater good, it is important to carefully weigh the potential consequences and ensure that the common good truly is unblemished.