These principles were established over the years and have served to solidify the common direction and purpose of Rotarians. Together, they are the cornerstone on which our relationship with others and the actions we take in the world are built.
The Object of Rotary
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
- FIRST: The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service.
- SECOND: High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society.
- THIRD: The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business, and community life.
- FOURTH: The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
The Four-Way Test
The Four-Way Test is a non-partisan, non-sectarian ethical guide used by Rotarians for their professional and personal relations. Translated into more than 100 languages, it is recited at every meeting and asks the following questions:
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?