Overview
If a friend starts making bad choices, like bullying others, it might be hard to stay friends. This shows that true friends should support each other in being good, not just stick together for fun.
The Choice
Should Olivia confront Ren or stay silent?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 7.4
- Word Count
- 287 words
- Published
- Jun 7, 2025
The Dilemma
Olivia and Ren have known each other long enough to know exactly which buttons not to push. Recently, Olivia noticed a change in Ren's behavior. Ren started hanging out with a new group at school, and Olivia heard rumors that Ren had been bullying a younger student. Olivia was shocked and didn't want to believe it at first. However, when she saw Ren teasing the student during lunch, she felt torn. Olivia values her friendship with Ren but also believes in kindness and standing up for others. She knows that true friends should encourage each other to be better, not worse. Olivia
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Confront Ren about the bullying.
Stay silent to maintain the friendship.
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
Why is it important to stand up against bullying?
- 3
How can friendships change when values differ?
- 4
How might Aristotle advise Olivia in this situation?
- 5
Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Aristotle
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
