Rotarian Ethics
Learn more about Rotarian Ethics
The History of The Four Way Test
The Four-Way Test was conceived in 1932 by businessman Herbert
J. Taylor, a member of the Rotary Club of Chicago, Illinois, USA, who
served as Rotary International president in 1954-55. Having taken
on the task of saving a company from bankruptcy, Taylor developed
the test as an ethical guide to follow in all business matters. The
company’s survival was credited to this simple philosophy. Adopted
by Rotary International in 1934, The Four-Way Test remains an
essential standard against which Rotarians measure ethical behavior.
It has been translated into dozens of languages and promoted by
Rotarians worldwide.
THE FOUR-WAY TEST
Of the things we think, say or do:
1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and
BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all
concerned?
Rotarian Code of Conduct
The Rotarian Code of Conduct provides a framework for ethical
behavior that all Rotarians can use, together with The Four-Way Test,
in their business and professional activities.
As part of Rotary’s guiding principles and the Avenues of Service,
Vocational Service calls on Rotarians to empower others by using
their unique skills and expertise to address community needs and
help others discover new professional opportunities and interests.
This handbook can help you gain a better understanding of vocational
service and provide you with ideas to practice it through your service
activities, in your personal life, and in your career.
As a Rotarian, I will
1. Act with integrity and
high ethical standards
in my personal and
professional life
2. Deal fairly with others
and treat them and their
occupations with respect
3. Use my professional
skills through Rotary to
mentor young people,
help those with special
needs, and improve
people’s quality of life
in my community and in
the world
4. Avoid behavior that
reflects adversely
on Rotary or other
Rotarians