The Golden Rule or ethic of reciprocity is an ethical code, or a morality[2], that essentially states any of the following (see examples below):
One should treat others according to how one would like others to treat one's self (positive, passive form)
Treat others as you would like to be treated (positive, active form)
One should not treat others in ways one would not like to be treated (prohibitive, passive form)
Do not treat others in ways you would not like to be treated (prohibitive, active form. Also called the Silver Rule)
The Golden Rule has a long history, and a great number of prominent religious figures and philosophers have restated its reciprocal, bilateral nature in various ways (not limited to the above forms).
The Golden Rule is arguably the most essential basis for the modern concept of human rights, in which each individual has a right to just treatment, and a responsibility to ensure justice for others.[3] A key element of the Golden Rule is that a person attempting to live by this rule treats all people with consideration, not just members of his or her in-group. The Golden Rule has its roots in a wide range of world cultures, and is a standard which different cultures use to resolve conflicts.[4]
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