The Four-Way Test

Of the things we think, say, or do —

1

Is it the TRUTH?

Rotarians are committed to honesty and accuracy in all their dealings — personal, professional, and communal.

2

Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Every decision should consider the interests of all parties involved, promoting equity and justice.

3

Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

Actions should strengthen relationships and promote a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

4

Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The final measure is whether an action benefits not just one person, but all those affected.

History of the Four-Way Test

The Four-Way Test was created in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, a businessman in Chicago who was asked to take charge of a struggling aluminum products company. Faced with serious financial and ethical challenges, Taylor devised this simple 24-word test to guide the company's employees and management in making ethical decisions.

Taylor said he spent fifteen minutes writing down the test — four simple questions that would be the ethical basis for all thinking and decisions in his company. Under the Four-Way Test, the company transformed its fortunes and became a leading manufacturer.

Rotary International adopted the Four-Way Test in 1943, and Taylor later donated the copyright to Rotary in 1954. Since then, it has been translated into more than 100 languages and is the ethical foundation for Rotarians worldwide.

About Herbert J. Taylor

Herbert J. Taylor (1893–1978) was an American businessman, Rotary Club of Chicago member, and Rotary International president (1954–55). A man of deep faith and integrity, he believed that ethical business practices were not just morally right — they were good business.

Applying the Four-Way Test

The Four-Way Test is not merely a slogan — it is a practical guide for ethical decision-making in every aspect of life. Rotarians apply it in:

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Business & Professional Life

Using the test when negotiating contracts, managing employees, setting prices, or making business decisions ensures fairness and integrity.

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Community Service

When planning projects and allocating resources, the test helps ensure that efforts genuinely benefit the community and build goodwill.

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International Relations

In Rotary`s global programs, the Four-Way Test promotes understanding, equity, and mutual benefit across cultures and countries.

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Personal Relationships

Many Rotarians apply the test in their personal lives — in conversations, decisions, and interactions with family and friends.

The Four-Way Test in Schools

Many Rotary clubs promote the Four-Way Test in schools through the Rotary Four-Way Test Speech Contest, where students prepare and deliver speeches on the topic. This initiative helps young people develop ethical reasoning skills and an understanding of the importance of integrity.

The speech contest is held at local, district, and national levels, encouraging students to reflect on what it means to be truthful, fair, good-willed, and beneficial in their daily lives.

"

Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

— Herbert J. Taylor, 1932