The Power of Opinion: Bjorn must choose between accepting help or proving himself alone.

By EpictetusCharacter Development2 min readGrade 9.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Consider a student who feels upset when they receive a low grade on a test. Instead of being discouraged, they realize that their feelings are based on their thoughts about the grade, and they can choose to see it as a chance to learn and improve.

The Choice

Bjorn must choose between accepting help or proving himself alone.

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.419597474348858
Word Count
362 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Bjorn has always been a diligent student, but recently he received a low grade on a math test. His friend Hana, who also took the test, scored higher and offers to help him study. Bjorn feels embarrassed and initially thinks his low grade defines his ability. However, he remembers a lesson from his teacher about how it's not the events themselves, but our thoughts about them that affect us. He considers seeing the grade as a chance to improve rather than a failure. Meanwhile, his parents expect him to maintain high grades, adding pressure. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) accept Hana's help and view the grade as a learning opportunity, or (B) refuse the help, believing he must handle it alone to prove himself.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Responsibility
vs
Autonomy

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

Your Options

A

Accept Hana's help to improve

B

Refuse help to prove himself alone

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 the principle of 'The Power of Opinion' apply here?

  3. 3

    What are the possible consequences of each choice?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?

  5. 5

    Think of a time you felt pressured. Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?

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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

responsibility
peer-pressure
self-awareness
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

The Power of Opinion — 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

The Power of Opinion — 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