Learning intentions I have considered the different ways in which the golden rule is expressed. I have thought about some issues that ONE version of the

Learning intentions• I have considered the different ways in which the golden rule

is expressed.• I have thought about some issues that ONE version of the

golden rule might raise for me and others.

10 Exploring ethics The golden rule


Lay not on any soul a load that you would not wish to be laid upon you, and desire not for anyone the things you would not desire for yourself.

Bahá'u'lláh, Gleaning

What do you desire from life?

Do you ever ask people to do things that you would not be prepared to do yourself?


In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.

Jesus, Matthew 7:12

How do you decide how to behave towards others?

From what you have learned in this course, how do Christians put this teaching into action?


One word which sums up the basis of all good conduct ... loving-kindness. Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.

Confucius, Analects 15.23

What do you think ‘loving kindness’ means?

Can you think of a time when you have shown this to others?


This is the sum of duty: do not do to others what would cause pain if done to you.

Mahabharata 5:1517

What does the word ‘duty’ mean?

What do you think your duties are at your age?


Not one of you truly believes until you wish for others what you wish for yourself.

The Prophet Muhammad, Hadith

Is it possible to be a religious person without following the golden rule?

According to Muslims, how might following the golden rule help you on Judgement Day?


What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour. This is the whole Torah; all the rest is commentary. Go and learn it.

Hillel, Talmud, Shabbath 31a

What things are ‘hateful to you’?

Who counts as your neighbour?


We are as much alive as we keep the earth alive. Chief Dan George

In what ways does nature support us?

In what ways should we support nature?


I am a stranger to no one; and no one is a stranger to me.Indeed, I am a friend to all.

Guru Granth Sahib, p.1299

Do you act like a ‘friend to all’?

From what you have learned about Sikhism, how do Sikhs put this into action?


We affirm and promote respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

Unitarian principle

Who or what depends upon you?

Who do you depend upon?


One should treat all creatures in the world as one would like to be treated.

Mahavira, Sutrakritanga 1.11.33

If you followed this, would you have to avoid killing anything, even a fly?

Are some ‘creatures’ in our world valued more than others?

Success criteria

Complete the following:• One version of the golden rule is…• This means…• I have followed this version of the golden rule when…• I have ignored this version of the golden rule when…


Documents

Learning intentions I have considered the different ways in which the golden rule is expressed. I have thought about some issues that ONE version of the