A virtue-based reflection on the golden rule as a basis of universal morality

Abstract

The term ‘Golden Rule’ (GR) is used in reference to the maxim, “Do to others as you would have them do to you”. Variant GR formulations have been developed such as the ‘Silver Rule’ which says, “Do not treat others as you would not like them to treat you”, and the ‘Copper Rule’ (also known as ‘Platinum Rule’) which states, “Do unto others what they would have you do to them”. The studies that have been conducted on the GR have largely focused on the action aspect which has proved untenable because of human inability to observe rules. This study sought to explore the GR in the context of the virtue of ‘beingness’ or cultivation of character with a view to determining its potentiality as a basis of universal morality. With regard to the methodology, both the primary and secondary sources relevant to the study were identified, interpreted, analysed and synthesized. Therefore, instead of dwelling on “what one ought to do” which is the focus of deontological, teleological and/or utilitarian perspectives, the study adopted a virtue-based approach to the GR which concentrates on “what one ought to be”. In other words, ‘being’ precedes (and transcends) ‘doing’. The study has attempted to avoid any religious and/or secular excesses or biases in order to remain neutral and maintain a universal breadth. The research established that the GR, viewed from a virtue-based approach which focuses on the beingness or character of the moral agent, transcends the religious, traditional and cultural norms in that it prioritizes the moral agent in determining the moral action; hence would serve as a basis of universal morality especially in a ‘global village’. The study, then, recommends that the concept of building character or ‘beingness’ should be adopted by religions or communities in order to attain the ultimate requirements of the GR. This approach to morality would not only guard against potential moral tensions and/or competition and instead encourage a give-and-take attitude towards building a global morality. Further study on the virtue-based or ‘beingness’ of the GR could be customized to institutional, religious, cultural and even political settings.