The Philosopher’s Oath

© Sumner Philosophical Society

I swear that, according to my ability and judgment,

I will keep this Oath and this stipulation — to pursue truth above all else and no matter what.

I will never claim to know the truth for certain, yet I will only act upon what I believe to be true.

I will always remain willing to be persuaded, but will not permit myself to be fickle or heedless.

I will never appeal to the authority of my title, for it has none.

I will not consider any subject taboo, nor will I attempt to limit the thought of others.

I will be both sword and shield for the freedom to express, discuss, and debate.

While I continue to keep this Oath unviolated, may it be granted to me to enjoy life and the practice of the art, respected by all men, in all times. But should I trespass and violate this Oath, may the reverse be my lot.

Based on: Oath of Hippocrates. In: Harvard Classics, Volume 38. Boston: P.F. Collier and Son, 1910. http://www.cirp.org/library/ethics/hippocrates/