Fairness through Following the Rules

Fairness is treating people as equal and doing so in ways that, within that culture, are seen by everyone to be “fair.” Fairness is an interesting challenge when working in different cultures in that local understandings of fairness differ. Every society has clear notions of what is fair and unfair. Every society has rules and norms that everyone understands as fair (and unfair). Essentially, people feel it is fair when those who “deserve” things get them, and those who do “not deserve” them do not get them.

As a behavior, fairness comes from an attitude of respect for local priorities and an eagerness to learn from people—from many people at many levels—what the rules of the game are for them, in that context.

Fairness through Following the rules

When we follow the rules and it is clear that we are doing so, we reinforce the connecting mindset. Most rules are not arbitrary. They were created for a reason—often a very good reason, locally. When we disregard rules, we are seen as scofflaws. This perception leads people to expect the worst from us.

Following the rules is a way of showing respect. Discussing rules we do not agree with also shows respect.

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