Fair Play – Definition and Attributes

Definition:

Fair play is when laid down rules are followed without cheating or resulting in dubious means. It is the fair and honest treatment of people. Everyone is given an opportunity, notwithstanding one’s social, religious, educational, and ethnic background. In business, there should be fair play.

In a fair play situation, a person uses his skills, talents, and qualifications to get contracts, jobs, or positions, rather than using his/her family’s reputation and or connections, or people you know.

Attributes of Fair Play:

1. Equity: This means that everyone should be treated equally, in the most responsible manner, irrespective of the person’s status in societyThe term society is derived from the Latin word 'socius' meaning friendship or companionship. Society is a community, nation or group of people who share the same traditions, institutions, rules and other common standards of living.. There should be no preferential treatment.

2. Openness: This means that in the course of transacting business, the person should not hide any information. The person should easily be understood for what he does or says. There should be no fear of sanction or punishment. This is a situation of being transparent.

3. Impartiality: This attribute involves giving everyone an equal chance, regardless of their social, cultural, ethnic or religious affiliation. It does not allow for nepotism or favouritism.