The Importance of Civility: Should Obi encourage civility or avoid conflict?

By John LockeRelationships & Social Skills2 min readGrade 9.9
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

In a classroom, a student who always listens and respects their classmates' opinions helps create a positive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to share their ideas. This encourages teamwork and friendship among the students.

The Choice

Should Obi encourage civility or avoid conflict?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.9
Word Count
305 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Obi and Anya are classmates working on a group project for their history class. The project requires them to present different historical perspectives on a controversial event. Anya, who is usually outspoken, has a strong opinion on the topic and tends to dominate discussions. Obi, on the other hand, values everyone's input and believes that a respectful exchange of ideas will lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the topic. During a group meeting, Anya dismisses another classmate's suggestion without consideration, causing tension in the group. Obi notices the discomfort among the group members and realizes that the atmosphere is becoming less collaborative. He understands that maintaining civility and respect is crucial for the group's success, but he also knows that challenging Anya might create conflict. Obi

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Respect
vs
Honesty

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

Your Options

A

Encourage Anya to listen.

B

Stay silent to avoid conflict.

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 civility affect group work?

  3. 3

    Why is it important to respect others' opinions?

  4. 4

    How might John Locke advise Obi 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

respect
communication
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 Importance of Civility — 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 Importance of Civility — 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