Most obvious is the freedom afforded the student and faculty in taking and giving examinations. Students may leave the room at any time during the examination. In addition to these concrete examples, there is the more important advantage of mutual trust and respect. No one at Rice feels disadvantaged for having done his or her own work. The Honor System is one institution that consistently emphasizes means over goals and thereby puts the grading system in the proper perspective.
Examinations assume a much more relaxed atmosphere.
The Honor System has succeeded because Rice students have respect for each other. The relationship between the members of the Rice community is defined by and dependent upon an acceptance of academic integrity. Rice students have shown themselves to be wo rthy and capable of maintaining the Honor System. It is your obligation as a student or faculty member not to violate the system yourself nor aid in any violation, and to report any violation that you see or suspect. The system is as valid as you choose to make it.