honor system

The phrase "honor system" refers to a system or arrangement where individuals are trusted to act honestly, responsibly, and ethically without being closely monitored or supervised. In an honor system, individuals are expected to adhere to a set of rules or guidelines based on their own integrity and personal sense of honor. This system relies heavily on the honesty and trustworthiness of the participants, as there are minimal or no formal mechanisms in place to enforce compliance or deter dishonest behavior.