Golden Rule

Published Oct 25, 2023

Definition of the Golden Rule

The Golden Rule is a moral and ethical principle that suggests treating others as one would like to be treated. It is often expressed as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” and is found in many religions and cultural traditions around the world. The Golden Rule promotes empathy, kindness, and fairness in human interactions.

Example

To illustrate the Golden Rule, imagine two friends, Sarah and Lisa. Sarah has an important exam coming up and is feeling very stressed. Lisa, who has already taken the same exam, remembers how nervous she was and how much she appreciated the support and encouragement from her friends. Based on that experience, Lisa decides to reach out to Sarah and offer her help and support. She shares her study resources and offers to help Sarah prepare for the exam. By treating Sarah the way she would like to be treated in a similar situation, Lisa demonstrates the Golden Rule in action.

Why the Golden Rule Matters

The Golden Rule is an important principle for promoting harmony, understanding, and ethical behavior in society. By considering how our actions impact others and treating them with respect and kindness, we can foster positive relationships and build a more compassionate world. The Golden Rule encourages individuals to think beyond their own self-interest and consider the well-being of others. Following this principle can help create a more just and inclusive society where everyone is treated with fairness and dignity.