Herbert J. Taylor was not only recognized as serving as a former Rotary International President in 1938, he is also the author of " The 4-Way Test".
The 4-Way Test was adopted by Rotary in 1943 as a subjective moral yardstick that would assist Rotary clubs in making decisions and promoting high ethical standards in business and professions.
Just as necessity is the mother of all invention, the greatest inspiration is often born of desperation. Herbert was desperate in 1932 despite his personal and business success, he was given the challenge of salvaging a bankrupt company and it's 250 employees. His only choice was to invest his own money into the company and to change the ethical climate. He would devise a self exam that every employee could use to make decisions that would empower them and the company.
The 4-Way Test
1. Is it the Truth?
2. Is it fair to all that is concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and other friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all that is concerned?
This may sound very simple and possibly naive to some but it worked. The conduct of the employees got better, the advertising was honest and the relationships with the vendors became workable. The Aluminum Company survived beyond the life of Herbert Taylor who died in 1978.
1. Is it the truth- Rotary has always been concerned with promoting high ethical standards
2. Is it fair to all concerned- It is giving an equal opportunity to high school youth to participate
3. Will it build goodwill and other friendships- We will make connections with parents in the community and demonstrate Rotary's commitment to youth
4. Will it be beneficial to all who are concerned- The winners will be recognized and prizes will be awarded.
(Currently our club has not formerly entered the contest. More information will be available as soon as a decision has been made. )