Google Updates Employee Code of Conduct, Removes “Don’t Be Evil” Motto
(Google’s Code of Conduct and its revisions)
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – Google confirmed significant revisions to its internal employee handbook, known as the Code of Conduct. These changes remove the long-standing phrase “Don’t be evil” from the document’s core principles. The update happened quietly several months ago. Google employees noticed the alteration recently.
The company’s famous motto “Don’t be evil” served as a founding principle for nearly two decades. It appeared prominently in the Code of Conduct’s introduction. The new version replaces this phrase. It now states employees should simply “Do the right thing.” Google executives described the change as routine wording modernization. They emphasized Google’s core ethical values remain unchanged.
Internal sources suggest the shift reflects Google’s evolution into a large, complex corporation under parent company Alphabet. The simple “Don’t be evil” slogan felt increasingly impractical for guiding daily decisions across vast operations. Some employees expressed disappointment online. They felt the motto represented Google’s original spirit. Company leadership insists the core message persists. They point to the expanded guidelines for ethical AI development and responsible business practices included in the updated document.
(Google’s Code of Conduct and its revisions)
The revised Code of Conduct provides more detailed rules for employee behavior. It covers areas like artificial intelligence development, data privacy, and interactions with government agencies. Google states these updates offer clearer guidance for its global workforce. The company requires all employees to review the revised Code annually. Compliance training modules will also reflect the new language. Management believes the updated Code better serves the company’s current size and scope. They maintain a strong commitment to ethical operations. Employee reactions remain mixed regarding the removal of the iconic phrase.
