UPSC 2023 GS-IV · 10 marks · 150 words
In the context of work environment, differentiate between 'coercion' and 'undue influence' with suitable examples.
What a top answer must contain
These are the checkable specifics from the marking standard for this question — the actual case, committee, datum or thinker, not an instruction to “give examples”.
- Coercion: compliance extracted by threat/force — overt, fear-based (threatening a transfer for refusing to falsify a report)
- Undue influence: dominant position bending free will — subtle, relationship-based (senior 'suggesting' a subordinate donate to his trust)
- Contract-law anchor (ICA ss.15-16) transplanted to workplace ethics; both vitiate consent, differ in visibility and provability
- Ethical response: documentation, whistle-blower channels, moral courage — one example resolved each way
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