Scientology's Code of Honor

Battle Creek Enquirer/February 25, 2001

This Code of Honor first appeared in November 1954, with an explanation from Church of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard that "No one expects the Code of Honor to be closely and tightly followed." The reason, according to Hubbard: "An ethical code cannot be enforced. Any effort to enforce the Code of Honor would bring it to the level of a moral code. It cannot be enforced simply because it is a way of life which can exist as a way of life only as long as it is not enforced."

Here is the code, as published in the church's book What is Scientology?:

• Never desert a comrade in need, in danger or in trouble.

• Never withdraw allegiance once granted.

• Never desert a group to which you owe your support.

• Never disparage yourself or minimize your strength of power.

• Never need praise, approval or sympathy.

• Never compromise with your own reality.

• Never permit your affinity to be alloyed.

• Do not give or receive communication unless you yourself desire it.

• Your self-determinism and your honor are more important than your immediate life.

• Your integrity to yourself is more important than your body.

• Never regret yesterday. Life is in you today, and you can make your tomorrow.

• Never fear to hurt another in a just cause.

• Don't desire to be liked or admired.

• Be your own adviser, keep your own counsel and select your own decisions.

• Be true to your own goals.