My personal 'Code of Ethics'

In my career there existed a code of ethics.  They were developed through a coopertive effort.  My membership and standing in the professional societies depended on my adherence to the codes.  I worked in the earth sciences; in private industry and in government.  I have seen both the academic and the business sides of the science.  Working with other professionals was often a matter of trust, and my word was my bond, even with those who might have been seen as adversaries, or at least, competitors.

In chess, our opponents are not really adversaries.  We are playing this game for the fun of it.  I am here to make friends and get back into the game.  And even if these online games were played for stakes or prizes, I can not imagine operating outside of the Laws of Chess and my personal code of ethics.

So the items I list below are my pledge to any of my present or future opponents:

I will conduct myself according the the Laws of Chess.

I will not cheat.  I will not use computers to help my play during a game.

I will greet you prior to each game.

I will thank you after each game, without regard to the result.

If you wish to analyze the game, after the fact, I will be glad to tell you what I was thinking.

From beginner to Grand Master, male or female, every one of my opponents deserves my respect, because they share my love for the game.

Win, lose, or draw, I will consider us winners if we come away from the game as friends.

Please share with me your ideas.  Until these past few weeks, my only playing experience was over-the-board.  I have a hard time fathoming why anyone would cheat or use computers to enhance their play.