The Four Way test was introduced to Rotary by Herbert J. Taylor who wrote it for his struggling business in 1932 during the Great Depression.

He wrote it as a statement of the business ethical standard for his company.

It was adopted by Rotary in 1943 and has been translated into more than 100 languages.

Herbert later became president of Rotary International in 1954-55.

The Four Way Test serves as a constant reminder of the high ethical standards of Rotarians in their business or profession.