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Freemasonry and Society
Introduction
The
following information is intended to expand on a topic mentioned in the leaflet
'What is Freemasonry'. It
explains the United Grand Lodge of England's view on Freemasonry and Society.
Grand Lodge's Policy
It must be clearly understood by
every member of the Craft that his membership does not in any way exempt him
from his duty to meet his responsibilities to the society in which he lives. The
Charge to the new Initiate calls on him to be exemplary in the discharge of his
civil duties; this duty extends throughout his private, public, business or
professional life.
Respect for the Law
Freemasonry demands
from its members a respect for the law of any country in which a man may work
and live.
Principles
Freemasonry do not in any way conflict with its members' duties as citizens,
whether at work or at home or in public life but on the contrary, should
strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities. Thus
there is no conflict of interest between a Freemason's obligation and his public
duty. If an actual or potential conflict of duties or interests is known to
exist or is foreseen, a declaration to that effect should be made. It may on occasions be prudent to disclose membership to avoid what others
mistakenly imagine to be a potential conflict or bias, but this must be a matter
for individual judgement.
Use of Membership
A Freemason
must not use his membership to promote his own or anyone else's business,
professional or personal interests. This is made clear directly or by inference
several times during a Freemason's early career so that no Freemason can pretend
to be ignorant of it. A Freemason who transgresses this rule may be suspended
from Masonic activities or even expelled.
Family
Freemasonry should not be
allowed to harm a man's family or other connections by taking too much of his
time or his money, or causing him to act in any way against their interests.
Duty as a Citizen
A Freemason's duty as a
citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any
attempt to shield a Freemason who as acted dishonourably or unlawfully, or to
confer an unfair advantage on another Freemason is contrary to this prime duty.
Personal or Business Difficulties
If it could be proved by evidence that any personal failure or business
difficulty was attributable to 'Masonic influence', Masonic authority would take
a serious view of the fact, as this would be contrary to the principles of
Freemasonry.
Secrecy
Freemasonry is not a secret society. Like many other
societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its
members. There are no secrets about our aims and principles. Copies of the
constitutions and rules can be obtained from Freemasons' Hall by interested
members of the public. The 'secrets' of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of
recognition. Its ceremonies are private. In ordinary conversation there is very little about
Freemasonry that may not be discussed. On enquiry for acceptable reasons, Freemasons are free and will
be proud to acknowledge their own membership.
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