The Value of Sharing and Generosity: Should Daiki share the special materials or not?

By John LockeRelationships & Social Skills2 min readGrade 9.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

In a group project, those who share their ideas and resources with teammates often find that collaboration leads to better results and stronger bonds among group members.

The Choice

Should Daiki share the special materials or not?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.8
Word Count
297 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Daiki and Marina are working on a science project together. They've decided to build a model volcano, and Daiki's father, who is a geologist, has given Daiki some special materials that could make their volcano eruption more realistic and impressive. However, Marina has also contributed a lot of effort and creativity to the project. As they work, Daiki notices that Marina seems a bit down, perhaps feeling overshadowed by the special materials Daiki has. Daiki wonders if he should share these materials with Marina for another project she is working on with a different group. Sharing them could help Marina feel more included and appreciated, but it might mean their joint project won't be as spectacular. Daiki Something has to give.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Loyalty
vs
Compassion

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

Your Options

A

Share the special materials.

B

Keep the materials for themselves.

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 might sharing affect Daiki and Marina's friendship?

  3. 3

    What are the benefits and drawbacks of sharing?

  4. 4

    How might John Locke advise Daiki 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 John Locke

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

Related Topics

generosity
friendship
collaboration
Portrait of John Locke, the English Enlightenment philosopher

John Locke1632-1704

John Locke (1632-1704) was a highly influential English philosopher and physician, widely regarded as one of the most important Enlightenment thinkers. Known as the 'Father of Liberalism' and founder of British empiricism, he profoundly impacted Western pol…

Empiricism
Liberalism
Development of Empiricism (Tabula Rasa)
Explore how John Locke informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about John Locke or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

The Value of Sharing and Generosity — 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

The Value of Sharing and Generosity — 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