honor system

American  

noun

1. a system whereby the students at a school, the inmates in a prison, etc., are put on their honor to observe certain rules in order to minimize administrative supervision or to promote honesty.

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Etymology

Origin of honor system

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

About half of schools chose to use the honor system.

From Los Angeles Times

One, the research oversight system is an honor system.

From Salon

Instead of fare gates, the light rail network here uses a modified honor system plus occasional spot-checks by transit workers.

From Seattle Times

“Largely, the food supply regulatory system is based on an honor system.”

From New York Times

If you see the unmanned craft beer bar where customers pay on the honor system, you’ve gone too far.

From New York Times