The 4-Way Test
For generations, Rotary has encouraged members to lead with integrity and kindness in everything they do. One of Rotary’s most recognised principles is the Four?Way Test—a simple, powerful guide that helps us make decisions we can be proud of.
The test was created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor, who later became President of Rotary International. At the time, he was asked to help turn around a company on the brink of bankruptcy. He introduced a 24?word test to guide how employees approached their work, their customers, and each other. That little idea made a big difference—the company survived, and the Four?Way Test went on to become one of the most widely quoted statements of business ethics in the world.
Rotary officially adopted the test in 1943, and today it’s been translated into more than 100 languages and shared in countless ways across the globe.
It asks four simple questions:
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Is it the truth?
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Is it fair to all concerned?
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Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
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Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
These questions help guide how we treat people, how we make decisions, and how we show up in our community—as people of action who lead with respect, honesty, and care.
