The Iron Rule

Most western societies support the use of the Golden Rule as a standard of conduct.  In short: "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."  This rule as a guide to getting along with others is unimpeachable.  As a moral standard, however, it is entirely deficient, as it assumes that the desires of others can be used as a guidepost for what is good.  For example, a cannibal could morally eat others if they desire to be eaten.  Further, suppose you treat a hurtful person as you would want to be treated and end up being exploited.  This lack of resolve strengthens the behavior of the exploiter and weakens the follower of the golden rule.

Another stab at finding morality in the intentions of others can be found in the silver rule: "Do NOT do unto others that which you would NOT want done unto you."  This rule gets closer to finding morality due to its advocacy of self control and erring on the side of less action rather than more, both of which prevent harm to others while constituting good martial practice anyway.

However, the true martial path is contained in the Iron Rule.  While the Golden and Silver safely reside in the cathedral as objects of public veneration, Iron is the root substance which builds societies and destroys enemies of the peace while Gold and Silver dazzle the senses, but bend under pressure.  Evil people need not fear followers of the precious metals.  However, they will always fear and respect unforgiving, unyielding iron.

The Iron Rule reads thus: "You shall do unto others as they have done unto you."  This rule dispenses with intention as a guiding moral standard and positively demands just action with regard to others.

Those who contribute, grant mercy, and give thanks receive the same in turn.  Those who detract, harm, and withhold gratitude are treated accordingly.  As such, individuals reap greater suffering for their evil actions and greater joy for their good actions.  The end result: suffering decreases, joy increases.  Those who live by this rule require the greatest strength of will, especially as they must be careful not to destroy those who punish them while providing sufficient thanks to those who are good to them.

Unlike the precious metal rules, the Iron Rule cannot be readily followed by a regular person.  One requires awareness, will, and skill to grant mercy and dispense punishment according to the Iron Rule.  However, by benefiting those who build, contribute, and give thanks, while punishing those who destroy, detract, and take for granted, a person can help build a society of iron around them.  This is the most powerful expression of the martial way.