Definition

1. Noun:
   • A foundational ethical principle: The "golden rule" is a moral maxim that advises treating others as one wishes to be treated oneself. Its most famous formulation is from the teachings of Jesus.
   • Any crucial or fundamental guideline: In a broader, often secular sense, the "golden rule" can refer to any essential or indispensable rule in a particular field or activity.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • She tries to live her life according to the golden rule. (She bases her actions on the principle of treating others as she wants to be treated.)
  • In journalism, verifying your sources is a golden rule. (Confirming sources is an absolutely essential guideline for journalists.)

Advanced Usage

• "to follow the golden rule": to adhere to this principle of reciprocal treatment.
  • A good manager follows the golden rule when dealing with employees.
• "the golden rule of [something]": the most important principle in a specific domain.
  • The golden rule of investing is never to risk money you cannot afford to lose.

Variants and Related Words

• Ethic (n): a set of moral principles.
• Maxim (n): a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
• Precept (n): a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought.

Synonyms

• Guiding principle: a fundamental idea that directs actions and decisions.
• Cardinal rule: a rule of the greatest importance.
• Fundamental tenet: a primary belief or principle.

Related Phrases

• Do unto others...: The common, abbreviated phrasing of the golden rule.
  • His philosophy is simple: do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Related Idioms

• Practice what you preach: To act in accordance with the advice one gives to others, closely related to the spirit of the golden rule.
  • A leader must practice what they preach to gain the team's respect.

Noun

1. a command based on Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount
   • Whatsoever ye would that men do unto you, do you even so unto them (Matthew 7:12)
2. any important rule
   • the golden rule of teaching is to be clear