E37: Golden Rule Ethics

Captivating golden hour sunlight filtering through a misty forest landscape.

Course Overview

CE Hours

3 CE Credits

Course Description

Golden Rule Ethics examines the meaning, origins, and ethical application of the Golden Rule — “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This course traces the Golden Rule from its biblical roots in Leviticus and the Sermon on the Mount through its philosophical application in law, ethics, and society. Learners will explore how the Golden Rule differs from the “silver rule” found in Eastern religions, review real-world applications including Arizona’s Golden Rule State program, examine biblical passages that apply the Golden Rule, and engage with scholarly perspectives on Golden Rule reasoning in moral philosophy and legal theory. Learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of the Golden Rule as a foundational ethical principle.

Course Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, learners will be able to:

  1. Define the Golden Rule and explain its origin in the teachings of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 7:12
  2. Distinguish between the Golden Rule and the “silver rule” found in Eastern religious traditions including Confucianism, Hinduism, and Buddhism
  3. Explain why the Golden Rule is considered a positive command rather than a passive restraint
  4. Identify biblical passages that apply the Golden Rule to personal conduct and relationships with others
  5. Describe real-world applications of the Golden Rule including the Arizona Golden Rule State and Flagstaff Golden Rule City programs
  6. Explain the concept of Golden Rule reasoning in moral philosophy and its application to legal policy-making
  7. Describe the main philosophical objections to the Golden Rule and the arguments used to defend it
  8. Explain how the Golden Rule connects to the study of ethics in research and professional conduct

Course Format and Faculty

Course Format:

Online linked resources and lectures available anytime, 24/7. Includes one multiple-choice exam taken at the end of the course. A passing grade of 75% is required. Upon passing, learners may print their certificate immediately.

Course Developers and Instructors:

R. Klimes, PhD, MPH (Johns Hopkins University) is a scholar and author in health-related research, health behaviors, ethics, end-of-life care, and overall wellness. He has written numerous research reports and books and has held academic and leadership roles in higher education and public health internationally.

Course Time:

Approximately 3 hours for online study, test taking, course evaluation feedback, and certificate printing.