Morals are standards of behavior adopted by individuals and groups to increase their survival potential. They are codes of conduct based on beliefs of what is important, worthwhile, useful, right and wrong.

Military organizations are known for their stringent moral codes. These codes make it easier for service members to work together and achieve their purpose. They reflect values such as integrity, honor, courage, loyalty, duty and respect.  Examples include the British Army Leadership Code, the French Soldier’s Code, the Oath of the Soviet Soldier, the Legion Code of Honour and the American Soldier’s Creed.

In a society without moral codes, there is no agreement on how to act or live. In the absence of behavior rules and guidelines, there will be never-ending disputes and conflict. Eventually, the society will collapse.

These days, many people believe our world is in a moral decline. In the USA alone, 53% of adults rated American moral values as poor. The biggest problem stated by survey respondents was consideration of others – how people treat each other – gallup.com

If morals are an integral part of a civilization’s endurance and success, is there a way they can be uplifted and restored?

The Way to Happiness is a moral code based entirely on common sense. Written by L. Ron Hubbard, its purpose is to turn back society’s moral downslope and regenerate mankind’s integrity and trust. The code, which was first published in 1981, is made up of 21 basic principles that act as a guide to a better quality of life. They can be followed by anyone, of any race, color or creed.

Over 100 million copies of The Way to Happiness Booklets have been distributed around the world. The mission of The Way to Happiness Foundation is to revitalize our culture by placing the booklet “into the hands of every person in every nation – thewaytohappinessfoundation.org.

In Colombia, a Colonel in the National Police who learned about The Way to Happiness, began distributing the booklet throughout Cartagena, a city along the Caribbean Sea. Following the distribution, crime decreased by 27%.  A national program was launched involving thousands of police officers around the country.  Twenty percent of the population received the booklet, which contributed to a 50% drop in crime.

The Way to Happiness booklet has become an effective resource for promoting peace, spreading calm to areas in crisis, reducing community crime and violence and creating safe neighborhoods. It is also a valuable tool that can help individuals improve their quality of life.