Parvati and Rajat are best friends in middle school...

By Frederick DouglassCharacter Development2 min readGrade 8.6
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.6
Word Count
337 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Parvati and Rajat grew up on the same street and have shared almost every milestone together. They both love playing an online game that has a competitive leaderboard. One day, while exploring the game’s forums, Parvati discovers a glitch that allows players to gain points unfairly. Tempted by the idea of seeing her name at the top of the leaderboard, Parvati considers using the glitch. However, she knows that exploiting this glitch could lead to her account being banned if she gets caught. Additionally, she worries about setting a bad example for Rajat, who looks up to her. Parvati is torn between her desire to be the best in the game and the potential consequences of her actions. She realizes that her decision will reflect on her integrity and affect her friendship with Rajat.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Integrity
vs
Self-Discipline

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

Your Options

A

Use the glitch to win.

B

Play fairly without cheating.

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 desire influence Parvati's decision?

  3. 3

    What are the potential consequences of each choice?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Parvati 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

integrity
self-control
peer-pressure
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

Parvati and Rajat are best friends in middle school... — 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

Parvati and Rajat are best friends in middle school... — 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