All Dilemmas

Value of Inner Virtue Over External Wealth: Should Tara accept Clara's invitation or not?

By Epictetus•Relationships & Social Skills•3 min read•Grade 7.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

In a school setting, a student might boast about having the latest gadgets or a big house, while another student focuses on being kind and helping others. The true value lies in how they treat their peers, not what they own.

The Choice

Should Tara accept Clara's invitation or not?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 7.8
Word Count
309 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Tara and Clara were best friends, but their lives seemed quite different. Tara lived in a modest home and often wore hand-me-down clothes, while Clara's family was wealthy, and she always had the latest gadgets and trendy outfits. Despite their differences, they shared a love for art and often spent afternoons drawing together.

One day, Clara brought her new tablet to school, showing off its amazing features to everyone. "Look at what my parents got me!" she exclaimed, drawing a crowd. Tara felt a pang of envy but tried to focus on her own sketchbook.

Later, Clara asked Tara to come over and see her new art studio, complete with expensive supplies. Tara hesitated, feeling a bit overshadowed by Clara's wealth. She wondered if Clara valued her friendship or just liked showing off. Tara The decision isn't easy.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Loyalty
vs
Compassion

Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.

Your Options

A

Accept Clara's invitation.

B

Decline and draw at school.

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. 1

    What would you do, and why?

  2. 2

    How does Tara feel about Clara's wealth?

  3. 3

    Why might Tara feel overshadowed by Clara?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Tara in this situation?

  5. 5

    Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Epictetus

Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.

Related Topics

friendship
empathy
self-respect
Portrait of Epictetus

Epictetusc. 50-c. 135

Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD) was a prominent Stoic philosopher who began life as a slave in Phrygia. After gaining freedom, he taught philosophy in Rome and later established a renowned school in Nicopolis. Though he wrote nothing, his teachings, recorded …

Stoicism
The Dichotomy of Control (what is in our power vs. what is not)
Prohairesis (Moral Choice/Volition) and the Correct Use of Impressions
Explore how Epictetus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Epictetus or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Value of Inner Virtue Over External Wealth — 5-10 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify the core ethical tension
  • -Make a quick, reasoned choice

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.Which option did you choose, and why?
  • 2.What would you give up with each choice?
participation
Classroom
Standard15 min

Value of Inner Virtue Over External Wealth — 15-20 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify competing values
  • -Articulate trade-offs

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.What would you lose by choosing each option?
  • 2.Is there a third path?
participation
Classroom