Professionalism and the Four-Way Test
By Chris Knutson, P.E.
Although it’s been around since 1932, the Rotary International’s “Four-Way Test” was entirely unknown to me until I read it this past week hanging on the wall of my son’s Tai-Kwon-Do studio. For those not familiar with it, the Four-Way Test is a code of ethics adopted by Rotary and consists of the following four questions:
1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Reading these words made me think of my engineering profession and my professional obligations in my current role as an officer and commander. Each of these virtues I recognized as absolutely essential to my success and the success and well-being of those who rely on my leadership and support—my family, my squadron, my colleagues, and my clients.
Although these virtues likely have subtle differences in meaning to each of us, let’s take a quick look at how they stack up against a code that may be a bit more recognizable to those reading this post: the NSPE Code of Ethics Fundamental Canon’s.
Is it truthful?
Canon #3: Issue public statements only in a objective and truthful manner.
Canon #5: Avoid deceptive acts.
Is it fair to all concerned?
Canon #4: Act for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees.
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Canon #2: Perform services only in areas of their competence.
Canon #6: Conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully so as to enhance the honor, reputation, and usefulness of the profession.
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Canon #1: Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.
For most of us, the Fundamental Canons, and perhaps Rotary’s Four-Way Test, are always playing in the background whether we are conscious of them or not. For certain, a successful professional absolutely needs to have these virtues running as source operating language or derailment is certain to befall them.
However, I invite you to join me in consciously reflecting on how these virtues benefit each of us individually and collectively as a profession. This conscious reflection is a worthwhile exercise for 2011.
NSPE member Chris Knutson, P.E., has over 17 years in the U.S. Air Force as an engineer officer and currently serves as a lieutenant colonel commanding a civil engineer squadron in New Mexico. He is a member of the NSPE Mentoring Task Force.
