Moral Maxims-Colin McGinn (again)

If you want someone to do something, persuade them, don't make them.

Always be kind at first, but be firm if your kindness is exploited.

Trust people unless you have reason not to, but don't be surprised if your trust is betrayed.

In matters of blame, think twice before you speak.

Be critical but not cynical.

Remember that there is a future, not just a present.

Never allow the low standards of others to lower your own standards.

Admire good people.

Be wary of envy, in yourself and others.

Don't forget that everyone has to die and everyone was once born.

Don't confuse just criticism with persecution.

Be truthful, but not in order to hurt others.

Let the facts speak for themselves.

Beware of the abuse of power.

If you are not sure you are doing the right thing, ask a trusted friend.

Remember that bad things have often been done in the name of virtue.

First be honest with yourself, and then with other people.

Never let injustice pass unchallenged.

Don't make excuses for cruelty.

Don't take from others what is rightfully theirs.

Be kind to strangers, but not because you too may be a stranger one day.

Don't allow your temper to do what your reason can't.

If you can't sing, be happy that someone can.

Don't insult where you can refute.

Don't confuse independence with rebelliousness.

Respect truth above persons.

Don't despise the unfortunate.

Keep your word.

Apologize if you let someone down.

Don't apologize if you have done nothing wrong.

Don't let outward appearance determine your moral judgments.

Be tolerant of difference.

Be humorous, but not at the cost of seriousness.

Don't think that what is right is always obvious.

Let other people finish their sentences.

Stare at yourself in the mirror once in a while....

It is important to be able to read and write. It is also important to have some mathematical proficiency. But more important than either of these is the ability to arrive at informed and thoughtful moral judgments.