Moral codes and ethics give us tools but also raise questions to be answered:How should we live? What is morally good and bad, right and wrong? Shall we aim at happiness or knowledge? Virtue or the creation of beautiful objects? If we choose happiness, will it be our own or the happiness of all?
In today's world, it is all the more confusing to determine what exactly is right and wrong. Ethics deals with such confusing questions at all levels….
In today's world, it is all the more confusing to determine what exactly is right and wrong. Ethics deals with such confusing questions at all levels….
- Is it right to be dishonest for a good cause?
- Can we justify living in opulence while people are starving elsewhere?
- Is going to war warranted when innocent people are going to die?
Rotary offers a possibility for solving ethical problems. For Rotary, The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone of all action. This test was developed in 1932 by Herbert J.Taylor and is one of the hallmarks of the Rotary movement worldwide. There are 4 brief questions which are not based on culture or religion. Instead they are a simple checklist for ethical behavior. They transcend generations and national borders.
Of the things we think, say or do...
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
As adults, we should have The Four-Way Test in mind in every decision we make, all day long. Our utmost responsibility is to speak the truth, to be fair, to build goodwill and better friendships, and to do our very best in all situations.
Contributed By:Indrani Kar
(Knowledge Cell - Globsyn Technologies)
GBS Alum
(Adapted from the speech of RI Director-elect Lars-Olof Fredriksson, of the Rotary Club of Aanekoski, Finland. He is a retired major in the Finnish air force)
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