Short cuts may not be the best route

On critically analysing the root causes of scams, accidents, and unethical activities, one common reason stands out: people resorting to shortcuts involving corruption, unlawful acts, and greed without adhering to ethical norms, legal standards, or procedures.

Investigations into major scams reveal the cause to be greed to amass wealth, position, or fame in quick time. The culprits bypass legal processes and do not follow ethical principles, opting for shortcuts with an ulterior motive rather than following due diligence or standard procedures.

Similarly, most road accidents are a result of drivers violating traffic rules by speeding, reckless overtaking, or rash driving in a hurry. These shortcuts are taken at the cost of safety. Inquiries into flight and train accidents have revealed failure to follow signals and do preventive maintenance, and hasty, irresponsible decisions.

A deeper analysis of fire and industrial disasters shows that many occur owing to non-compliance with standard operating procedures, a lack of seriousness in preventive maintenance, or ignoring early-warning signals — all forms of neglect and shortcut-taking.

Even in academics, a few students, instead of working sincerely and meticulously, resort to unfair means violating academic integrity for better results.

In public life, many individuals attempt to bribe officials to bypass waiting periods and queues to obtain licences, passports, approvals, or certificates.

Similarly, in organisations, some employees seek promotions, transfers, or postings through unethical means. These, again, are examples of shortcuts.

While such actions might provide temporary gain, in the long run, they do not offer true satisfaction or peace of mind.

By resorting to shortcuts to achieve targets, gain personal benefit, or avoid hard work, individuals and organisations compromise ethical and moral values. This leads to a breakdown of financial integrity, academic integrity, and moral standards.

Therefore, the key lesson to uphold ethical principles in both personal and professional life is “avoid shortcuts”.

[email protected]