Immanuel Kant (Ethical Thinker)

1. Categorical Imperative: Kant’s Categorical Imperative implies that decisions should be universally applicable. For instance, an Indian bureaucrat should formulate policies that are fair and can be applied universally, regardless of personal biases or regional differences.
2. Duty and Good Will: According to Kant, actions are morally right if they are done out of duty. An Indian civil servant, for example, should work not just for personal gains or promotions but out of a sense of duty towards the nation and its citizens.
3. Autonomy and Rationality: Kant emphasized rational and autonomous decision-making. In the Indian bureaucracy, this translates to officers making decisions based on rational analysis and public welfare, free from political or personal influences.
4. Moral Law and Reason: Kant believed in the inherent ability of rational beings to discern right from wrong. An Indian administrative officer should, therefore, rely on their reason and moral judgment in decision-making, adhering to laws and ethical guidelines.
5. Deontological Ethics: Kant’s deontological ethics focuses on adherence to rules. In the context of Indian bureaucracy, this means adhering to the code of conduct and rules of service, regardless of the consequences.
6. Respect for Persons: Following Kant’s principle of treating individuals as ends in themselves, Indian bureaucrats should respect the rights and dignity of all citizens, ensuring that policies and actions do not exploit or marginalize individuals or groups.
7. Application in Public Administration: Applying Kant’s principles in Indian public administration involves promoting integrity, impartiality, and public service. For example, a bureaucrat implementing a rural development scheme should do so with the intention of public good, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.

Incorporating these Kantian ethics into the Indian bureaucracy can lead to a more principled, fair, and ethical administration, reflecting the ideals of duty, rationality, and respect for all individuals.