John Locke on Should Lily try the new game with Max or stick to the old game?

By John LockeRelationships & Social Skills2 min readGrade 3.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Lily is playing at the playground. Her friend Max wants to play a new game, but it's one Lily has never tried before.

The Choice

Should Lily try the new game with Max or stick to the old game?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades K-2
Reading Level
Level 3.4029326513214
Word Count
255 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Lily is playing at the playground. Her friend Max wants to play a new game, but it's one Lily has never tried before. Lily prefers to play the game they always play. Max says, "Let's try my game today!" Lily isn't sure because it might be too hard, but she knows Max will be sad if they don't play his game.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Respect
vs
Loyalty

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

Your Options

A

Try Max's new game.

B

Stick with the usual game.

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

    Why might it be good to try something new?

  2. 2

    How could Max feel if they don't play his game?

  3. 3

    What might happen if Lily doesn't like the new game?

  4. 4

    How does Lily feel about trying new things?

  5. 5

    Why is it important to take turns choosing games?

Did you like this dilemma?

Loading poll data...

Philosophical Perspective

Insights from John Locke

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

Related Topics

tolerance
friendship
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.