Bolanle and Carlos are in their school's art club...

By Frederick Douglass•School & Academic Life•2 min read•Grade 9.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.8
Word Count
330 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Bolanle and Carlos are in their school's art club. The club is planning an exhibition, and each member must submit a painting. Bolanle has a unique idea that involves using recycled materials to create her artwork, emphasizing environmental responsibility. However, during a meeting, Carlos suggests a theme that everyone else quickly agrees to, which involves using new, expensive art supplies. Bolanle feels the pressure to conform to the group's decision, even though it contradicts her values about sustainability. She fears that if she speaks up, she might face ridicule or be seen as difficult by her peers. Despite these fears, Bolanle believes in the importance of expressing her true feelings and standing by her principles. Bolanle

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Autonomy
vs
Integrity

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

Your Options

A

Conform to the group's decision.

B

Express her idea about recycling.

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

    Why might Bolanle feel afraid to speak up?

  3. 3

    How can Bolanle's idea benefit the environment?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Bolanle 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 Frederick Douglass

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

Related Topics

peer-pressure
environment
authenticity
Portrait of Frederick Douglass, a distinguished African American man with a beard and intense gaze, embodying dignity and intellect.

Frederick Douglassc. 1818-1895

Born into slavery, Frederick Douglass (c. 1818-1895) became a prominent American abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. His powerful autobiographies and speeches exposed the horrors of slavery and advocated for emancipation and equal rights for all, i…

Abolitionism
American Philosophy
Civil Rights Advocacy
Explore how Frederick Douglass informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Frederick Douglass or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Bolanle and Carlos are in their school's art club... — 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

Bolanle and Carlos are in their school's art club... — 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