Ethics

The Golden Rule, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, is considered as the most common methodology in resolving ethical dilemmas. This rule has different variations in 15 different religions but universally carry the same meaning. It means that we should treat others in the manner as we would treat ourselves. All men value their survival and happiness and want to be treated with respect and justice. The Golden Rule first requires that we respect and care for ourselves. Then, it tells us to place ourselves in the position of others and deal with them in the same degree of care and respect we place upon ourselves. The rule is a universal form of ethics. Hence, it is applied in personal, professional, and social circumstances, and is even gaining acceptance in the business sphere. As a faith-based code of ethics, it is regarded as a message of service, square-dealing and of human brotherhood. Basically, the Golden Rule invites us to place value on human beings and regard them not simply as a means, but an end.

The Golden Rule is important in the relationships we form with our friends and loved ones. When we are faced with ethical problems concerning our friends or colleagues, the Golden Rule is a simple method to help us resolve our dilemma. Even the moral dilemmas which are particularly difficult to handle can be made simpler with the help of the Golden Rule. To illustrate, there is an experience of a mother whose son has shot a fellow motorist to death over a traffic dispute. The mother is torn between turning his son in or helping him flee from the authorities. Applying the Golden Rule, the son would be better off if he surrendered to the police because it would give the person he has slain justice. If their situations were reversed, wouldnt that son wish that the perpetrator would give himself up in the interest of justice  How would the mother feel if the situation were reversed The same applies in the dilemmas we encounter at work. Our professional life is competitive and advancement to the top of the corporate ladder sometimes means that loyalties are compromised. Cutthroat maneuvers, backstabbing, and power plays are even considered to be natural and unavoidable occurrences. Would it be ethical for an employee to concoct false accusations or start rumors against a colleague in order to eliminate him as a competitor for a higher post The Golden Rule would suggest that this is not the kind and caring treatment that would place value on the human being. Doing such a thing transforms the person simply into a means or a vehicle for promotion.

The Golden Rule is a primary basis for ethical behavior. However, in the world of business where the primary aim is securing profit, does this rule apply Is this rule relevant or meaningful in the conduct of business To be sure, the governing principle of free enterprise or capitalism is contradictory to the Rule. In the corporate world, the rule is simple do whatever it takes to reap a profitable return for the stockholders and owners. Even if this means using child labor or laying off thousands of needy workers, as long as it is good for the stockholders, this is proper and good. In business, we can say that it is the rule of gold rather than the golden rule that applies. However, there are also instances where the golden rule can harmonize with the principles of business. Coming up with products that are useful enough that we ourselves would want to buy can stimulate patronage from customers. If business owners treat customers kindly despite occasional rudeness from them, then it could guarantee steady influx of customers. If they can provide as much benefits and incentives as much as possible for employees, then retention and performance would be maximized. It is evident that in some cases, businesses often make irrational decisions that have negative impacts on others.

This should not be the case. A business that acts in accordance with the Golden Rule may flourish because the rule enhances and improves service. An ethical business is much more successful than an unethical one. Although difficult, the golden rule in business must not be regarded as counterproductive, but rather, as a guide toward success.