Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 1.Dr. Priya Sharma, a senior scientist at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has been leading a critical research project on developing an affordable COVID-19 vaccine for rural populations. After 18 months of dedicated work, her team is on the verge of a major breakthrough. However, she discovers that her immediate supervisor, Dr. Rajan Kumar, has been secretly sharing confidential research data with a multinational pharmaceutical company in exchange for substantial personal financial gains.
When Dr. Sharma confronts Dr. Kumar, he threatens to have her removed from the project and warns that exposing him would jeopardize the entire research initiative, potentially delaying the vaccine by years. He argues that the partnership with the multinational company would actually accelerate the vaccine’s development and global distribution, ultimately serving the greater good. Dr. Kumar also reminds her that he has significant influence over her career progression and research funding.
Dr. Sharma is torn between her professional integrity and the potential consequences of whistleblowing. She knows that exposing the misconduct might lead to project delays, affecting millions of vulnerable people awaiting the vaccine. Simultaneously, she is aware that remaining silent would compromise scientific ethics and reward corrupt practices within the research establishment.
Questions
- What are the key ethical dilemmas Dr. Sharma faces in this situation?
- How should she balance her professional duty with potential consequences for public welfare?
- What institutional mechanisms should be in place to prevent such conflicts of interest in scientific research? (250 words, 20 Marks)
