Sven and Ekon are both talented artists in their school, and their art teacher, Ms...

By Frederick Douglass•Technology Ethics•2 min read•Grade 9.0
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9
Word Count
319 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Sven and Ekon are both talented artists in their school, and their art teacher, Ms. Rivera, announces a special opportunity: one student will be selected to design a mural for the school entrance. Sven is chosen for the project, which makes him feel proud and excited. However, he notices that Ekon, who is equally skilled, seems disappointed and left out. Sven realizes that while being selected is an honor, it also highlights the fact that not everyone is recognized equally. Sven

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

Invite Ekon to collaborate.

B

Work on the mural alone.

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 being chosen for a special project make someone feel?

  3. 3

    Why might it be important to share opportunities with others?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Sven 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

fairness
inclusion
empathy
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

Sven and Ekon are both talented artists in their school, and their art teacher, Ms... — 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

Sven and Ekon are both talented artists in their school, and their art teacher, Ms... — 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