The object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
FIRST: The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service.
SECOND: High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society.
THIRD: The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business and community life.
FOURTH: The advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
THE FOUR WAY TEST
From the earliest days of the organization, Rotarians were concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives.
This led to the early adoption of ‘The Four Way Test’:-
“Of the things we think, say or do
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?”
THE ROTARY WHEEL
The badge of Rotary originated in 1905 as a simple wagon wheel representing “civilization and movement”.
The cogged wheel version was made official by a 1919-1920 decision of the board. A key way was added in 1929 to signify that the wheel is a worker – not an idler. The energy of the wearer is the key to Rotary activity.