Interpretation of the Honor System

A student's conduct in all areas of academic life is governed by the Honor System. Among other things, this applies to examinations, homework, research, teaching, and the use of the libraries. The Honor System also extends into non-academic areas. The essence of the system is embodied in the phrase:

Never take unfair advantage of any other

member of the Caltech community.

It is clear that the domain of the Honor System includes our relations and interactions with every member of the community. Honesty, fairness and consideration, and respect for the privacy, property, safety, and other rights of those who are part of the Institute are expected of all of us. Each individual has an obligation to exercise his or her personal freedom in a manner which is at all times consistent with the spirit of the Honor System.