Choosing What Affects You: Bjorn must choose between using AI or doing the work themselves.

By EpictetusCharacter Development2 min readGrade 8.0
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Imagine facing a tough exam. Instead of feeling defeated, you choose to see it as a chance to learn and grow, focusing on the effort you put in rather than the outcome.

The Choice

Bjorn must choose between using AI or doing the work themselves.

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.032025586353946
Word Count
335 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Bjorn and Hana are working on a group science project due next week. Hana suggests using a new AI tool to generate their report quickly. Bjorn is unsure, as their teacher, Mr. Lee, emphasized the importance of original work and warned about relying too much on technology. Hana argues that everyone else is using it, and it will save them time for other activities. Bjorn feels the pressure to conform but also values honesty and the effort they put into their work. He knows using the AI tool might get them a good grade without much effort, but it could also mean missing out on learning. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) use the AI tool to finish the project quickly, or (B) stick to doing the work themselves, even if it takes more time.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Honesty
vs
Autonomy

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

Your Options

A

Use AI tool for quick completion

B

Do the work themselves for learning

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 'Choosing What Affects You' apply here?

  3. 3

    What are the consequences of each choice?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?

  5. 5

    Have you faced a similar choice before?

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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

honesty
peer-pressure
digital-ethics
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.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Choosing What Affects You — 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
Standard15 min

Choosing What Affects You — 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