Layla and Arjun are part of the school's debate club, eagerly preparing for the upcoming inter-school competition...

By Frederick Douglass•Technology Ethics•2 min read•Grade 8.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.8
Word Count
309 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Layla and Arjun are part of the school's debate club, eagerly preparing for the upcoming inter-school competition. Their teacher, Mr. Thompson, is known for being strict and often favors certain students. Layla, who has been working hard, notices that Mr. Thompson unfairly gives Arjun more speaking time during practice sessions, despite Layla's equally strong arguments. Layla feels this favoritism is unjust and worries it might affect her chances in the competition. She contemplates addressing this issue with Mr. Thompson, but fears repercussions, as he has a reputation for not taking criticism well. Layla also considers discussing the matter with the club president, hoping for a fairer distribution of practice time. Layla

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Fairness
vs
Compassion

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

Your Options

A

Confront Mr. Thompson directly.

B

Seek support from the club president.

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 favoritism affect fairness and justice?

  3. 3

    Why might Layla fear confronting Mr. Thompson?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Layla 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?

Did you like this dilemma?

Loading poll data...

Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Frederick Douglass

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

Related Topics

fairness
authority
power-dynamics
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.