The golden rule of ethics: rational desire and logical consistency

Abstract

The Golden Rule –which states, “Treat others as you want to be treated”– is an ancient, universal ethical principle. This article delves into two of the most influential interpretations developed from the twentieth century onward: approaches that dominate the English‑language literature yet remain largely unexplored in Spanish. On the one hand is the “material” perspective, championed by figures such as A. T. Cadoux and Paul Weiss, which rests on rational desire. On the other is the “formal” perspective, defended by authors like Harry J. Gensler and Thomas L. Carson, which focuses on consistency. I contend that the two interpretations are not only plausible but also compatible and potentially complementary. The article also addresses Kant’s critique of the Golden Rule.