There's no single, universally accepted "Law of Platinum" in the legal or scientific sense. The phrase appears in various contexts, often referring to a standard of excellence or a principle of interpersonal interaction. Let's examine these different interpretations:
1. The Platinum Rule of Interpersonal Interaction
This is perhaps the most common understanding of "platinum rule." It's a refinement of the Golden Rule.
- The Golden Rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
- The Platinum Rule: Treat others as they would like to be treated.
This emphasizes understanding and adapting to individual needs and preferences, promoting more effective and empathetic communication and interaction. The Platinum Rule acknowledges the diversity of human needs and approaches. It requires active listening and understanding of others' perspectives.
2. Platinum as a Descriptor of Excellence or High Standards
In several instances, "platinum" signifies the highest level of achievement or recognition. Examples include:
- Platinum LEED Certification: This indicates a building's exceptionally high standards of environmental sustainability, as seen in the Cornell Law School example. https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2015/01/law-school-addition-certified-platinum-green-building-group
- Platinum Awards/Sponsorships: Several organizations use "platinum" to denote their highest level of awards or sponsorship packages, representing significant contributions or support. (e.g., NJWLA's WILL Platinum Award, Platinum Sponsor in CLEARS). https://www.njwla.org/new-jersey-women-lawyers-association-16th-will-platinum-gala/ https://www.clears.org/product/platinum-sponsor/
- Premium Services/Products: The term "platinum" is often used in marketing to denote a superior or high-end version of a product or service, such as the "Law of Self Defense Platinum Protection Program." https://lawofselfdefense.com/product/law-of-self-defense-platinum-protection-plan/
Therefore, understanding the context is crucial for interpreting "Law of Platinum." It's not a codified legal principle but rather a metaphorical expression related to superior standards or optimal interpersonal behavior.