Liam and Sami are part of a group project for their science class...

By Frederick Douglass•Character Development•2 min read•Grade 10.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 10.4
Word Count
342 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Liam and Sami are part of a group project for their science class. The project involves creating a presentation on renewable energy sources. Liam is excited about the project, but he notices that Sami, who is usually very enthusiastic, seems distracted and less engaged. During a group meeting, Liam overhears Sami talking to another friend about how he's only participating in the project to get a good grade and impress the teacher, not because he cares about the topic. This revelation makes Liam question the sincerity of Sami's involvement and the integrity of their project. Liam wonders if he should talk to Sami about his motivations or let it slide, considering the project's success is also important to him. Liam The choice is theirs to make.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Integrity
vs
Autonomy

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

Your Options

A

Confront Sami about his intentions.

B

Focus on completing the project.

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 is it important to understand people's true intentions?

  3. 3

    How can acting with genuine intentions affect a group's success?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Liam 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

integrity
peer-pressure
responsibility
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

Liam and Sami are part of a group project for their science class... — 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

Liam and Sami are part of a group project for their science class... — 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