Overview
Imagine a young athlete who practices hard for a competition but does not win. Instead of feeling defeated, they focus on their effort and the skills they gained, realizing that their true victory lies in their dedication and growth.
The Choice
Anders must choose between advocating for reusable trays or supporting more recycling bins.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.784355400696864
- Word Count
- 328 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anders and Eun-Kyung are part of a school environmental club. They’ve been working on a project to reduce waste in the cafeteria. Eun-Kyung suggests a plan to use reusable trays, but it requires convincing the school board, and Anders is nervous about speaking in front of adults. Meanwhile, another club member proposes a simpler solution: just put up more recycling bins. This option is easier but less impactful. Anders feels pressure to choose the easier path to avoid public speaking, yet he knows the reusable trays could make a bigger difference. As the meeting approaches, Anders must decide whether to advocate for Eun-Kyung’s plan or support the simpler recycling bin idea. Anders now faces a choice: (A) speak up for the reusable trays or (B) support the easier recycling bin solution.
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
Advocate for reusable trays
Support recycling bins
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
How does 'Choosing Your Response' apply here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anders here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
