Impartiality
Sorkottam Illadhu Seppam Orudhalaiyaa / Utkottam Inmai Perin
Classical English couplet — “Inflexibility in word is righteousness,If men inflexibility of soul possess”
What it says in plain words
“Truly fair words come from a mind that does not take sides. Fairness means keeping both your thoughts and your words fair.”
The classical Tamil reading
உள்ளத்தில் கோணுதல் இல்லாத தன்மையை உறுதியாகப் பெற்றால், சொல்லிலும் கோணுதல் இல்லாதிருத்தல் நடுவுநிலைமையாம்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
நேர்மையும் நெஞ்சுறுதியும் ஒருவர்க்கு இருந்தால் அவரது சொல்லில் நீதியும் நியாயமும் இருக்கும் அதற்குப் பெயர்தான் நடுவுநிலைமை
The ethical and philosophical heart
We may favor someone because they are close to us. That feeling can shape our words when disagreements arise. Fair words begin with fair thoughts. Being honest with ourselves helps us speak fairly about everyone involved.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You admit your friend was wrong instead of making excuses.
- Workplace
- You describe both coworkers' mistakes fairly, even though one is your friend.
- Family
- You hear both children before deciding who broke the agreement.
- Society
- You judge a neighbor's complaint fairly, even when it concerns someone you like.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Check whether liking someone is shaping your judgment.
- Integrity
- Make sure your fair words match what you honestly think.
- Communication
- Describe what happened without twisting the story to favor someone.
- Leadership
- Listen fairly to everyone, including people who disagree with you.
- Governance
- Apply the same rules to everyone, including friends and supporters.
For leaders and teams
Before settling a disagreement, check your own loyalties. Your words should reflect fairness, not a wish to protect favorites.
Something to sit with
“Where might your feelings about someone be shaping your words today?”