The Humanity Code
One Man's Moral Compass & Essence
Foreword
I recently celebrated my 79th birthday. In such a noisy, perverted and puzzling world, where complexity is relentlessly being amplified, and the demands of existence shift daily, finding a moral compass to guide each individual's journey has undoubtedly become more essential than ever before.
Through the ages a number of people have come up with rules for living a moral life, starting with Moses and his “Ten Commandments” and continuing to this day with outspoken psychologist Jordan Peterson and his ilk. As for me I have always tried to abide by a personal expression of what it means to me to be a sentient human being living in harmony with others.
This 'Humanity Code' was an entry in my diary drafted 66 years ago - the day before my 13th birthday, when I was struggling to make sense of a world that seemed alien yet somehow empty and quiet. This code has served as a compass, offering a set of principles designed to anchor my sense of 'self' amidst the turbulent trajectory of contemporary life. These twenty tenets were not intended merely as rules to live by. They deliberately incorporate reflections of timeless wisdom, distilled into practical insights that aspire to elevate my daily life and interactions.
Each tenet within this code is crafted to remind me of my shared humanity and the profound impact of my actions and words. From the importance of trust and the respecting of confidences to the necessity of pursuing my passions with unyielding commitment, these guidelines have encouraged me to live a life of integrity, respect and compassion - not that I have always succeeded. Even today, they remind me that my interactions—whether with loved ones or strangers—carry weight, and that every moment is precious, offering an opportunity to affirm my belief in humanity as a force for good.
The Humanity Code emphasizes that true self-worth is not derived from superficial measures but from our ability to connect meaningfully with others and to act with purpose and kind intentions. It recognizes the balance between self-care and altruism, the wisdom in seeking advice, and the strength in acknowledging our vulnerabilities by asking for help. It underscores that our words and actions should always align with the deepest truths, reflecting a reverence for ourselves and all other living beings, and acknowledging the ‘sacredness’ of life.
By adopting these tenets, I have tried to build a foundation of trust, foster deeper connections, and contribute positively to my family, my community, and the world at large. I have often described my task as helping ‘to make the world work for everyone'. Consequently, this code is a guide to nurturing a life of authenticity and compassion, providing clarity in moments of uncertainty, but also a constant reminder of the principles that sustain a fulfilling and ethical existence.
As you explore these tenets, may they inspire you to lead a life marked by integrity, respect, and genuine kindness. The Humanity Code is my gift to you, an invitation to embrace the principles of 'ecority' [i.e. ecology + integrity] as you navigate the dynamic complexities of your own life - encouraging you to leave a legacy of compassion and to foster a world where each individual’s worth is recognized and worthy of being celebrated.
Never betray a confidence, to do so is to invite mistrust.
Love what you do, or do something else. Pursue your passions utterly or not at all.
Embrace moments of solitude, but do not deny such moments to others.
Seek advice only from wise individuals who have experienced life to the full.
Avoid arguing from a position of ignorance, or with an ignorant person.
Self-sufficiency is comforting. Resist giving in to excess with all its snags.
Treat everyone you meet with the same openness and respect.
Defend your views while respecting others' rights to have opposing views.
Spend quality time with loved ones and tell them you love them often.
There are no failures. Learn from every experience and reframe any regrets.
Honour and value loyalty, but not to the extent that it leads to deceit.
Believe in something meaningful and beautiful.
Care for the 'more-than-human' world in the same way you care for your child.
Ask for help when needed, this is a gift from others to you.
Show gratitude whenever kind-heartedness is shown to you.
Be as helpful to strangers as you are to your friends and neighbours.
Making others' days happier will enhance your own happiness.
Compete with yourself before competing with others.
Show people they matter by greeting them with a smile.
Before you speak, make sure it’s the truth, needs to be said, and is kind.