The Universality of the "Golden Rule"

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The Golden Rule, found in various forms in different cultures and religions, promotes the idea of treating others as one would like to be treated. It emphasizes empathy, compassion, and consideration for others, serving as a central message in Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, and Ethical humanism. This concept transcends geographical, age, and ethnic boundaries, highlighting its universal relevance in guiding human behavior and relationships.

Is the Golden Rule overly idealistic and vague? Don’t we have to consider the issue of power? Tokens of generosity may be a good thing, but they don’t address the profound inequality in society. Some say that the “real” golden rule is, “Whoever has the gold makes the rules.” How do we respond to Kwame Anthony Appiah, who writes The Ethicist in the New York Times, who thinks that the Golden Rule doesn’t go far enough in embracing the uniqueness of every person? We need to empower others and give them space and autonomy and encouragement and… resources. Only then does the sacred nature of the Golden Rule arise.