Overview
Alex, a 13-year-old, finds an old bicycle abandoned in the park. It was left here last summer.' Alex is unsure whether Jamie is telling the truth, but returning the bike would mean losing all the work they've put into it.
The Choice
Should Alex return the bicycle to Jamie or keep it?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.428965169106515
- Word Count
- 283 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Alex, a 13-year-old, finds an old bicycle abandoned in the park. It's rusty and the tires are flat, yet Alex sees potential in it. While fixing it, Jamie, a classmate, says, 'Hey, that's my cousin's bike! It was left here last summer.' Alex is unsure whether Jamie is telling the truth, but returning the bike would mean losing all the work they've put into it.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Return the bicycle to Jamie.
Keep the bicycle and finish fixing it.
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
Why might Alex feel they deserve to keep the bicycle?
- 2
What are the risks if Jamie is not telling the truth?
- 3
How important is it to verify Jamie's claim?
- 4
How would Alex feel if the roles were reversed?
- 5
What responsibilities come with finding abandoned property?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from John Locke
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
