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Every religion and philosophy includes some variation on the Golden Rule. As we become more globally aware, however, it is important to consider the possibility that not all people want the same things. I believe high school students are ready to go beyond the elementary school way of playing nice. We are ready for a Platinum Rule.
The Golden Rule
"Treat others as you want to be treated."
I want to reward my students for doing well so I bring in some opera music, which I enjoy, to share with them.
My husband is so enamored by me that he takes me to a car show on my birthday.
My cat loves me very much and shows it by bringing a small bird she caught for me.
The Platinum Rule
Treat others as THEY want to be treated.
I will tell my students how proud I am and ask what they think would be an appropriate reward.
My husband will think about the things I find exciting and take me dancing; I will accompany him to various car shows because I know he enjoys them.
My cat . . . is a cat, and I don't expect her to be able to empathize with me; however, I appreciate her love because I understand she may not be capable of attaining the higher level of empathy.
Empathy is not just about being nice. Being able to put yourself in someone else's position is a skill that successful people have long kept secret. A wealthy salesperson, for instance, must think about what his customer wants; a good director anticipates every emotion of her audience; advertisers work diligently to successfully target their market; even students with good grades have learned to decipher how each teacher measures learning in his or her classroom.
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