Overview
If a child is teased at school, instead of blaming the other kids, they can reflect on how they feel about the teasing and choose to respond with confidence and kindness instead of anger.
The Choice
Diego must choose between helping Jae or his sister.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.562800000000003
- Word Count
- 250 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Diego and Jae are working on a group project for their science class. Jae, who is very passionate about the project, suggests they should stay late after school to perfect their presentation. Diego, however, has promised his younger sister he would help her with her homework. Diego feels torn between the responsibility to his sister and the commitment to his friend and the project. If he stays late, he might let his sister down, but if he leaves, he might disappoint Jae and risk their project not being as polished. Diego now faces a choice: (A) stay late to work on the project with Jae, or (B) go home to help his sister with her homework.
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
Stay late to work on the project
Go home to help his sister
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 the principle of self-responsibility for emotions apply here?
- 3
What are the possible consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Diego here?
- 5
Can you think of a time you felt torn between two responsibilities?
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.
