Understanding Our Nature: Should Ben choose his design or Soraya's?

By Marcus AureliusCharacter Development2 min readGrade 9.2
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

A student learns to cooperate in group projects, understanding that working together benefits everyone and creates a better outcome than competing against each other.

The Choice

Should Ben choose his design or Soraya's?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.2
Word Count
273 words
Published
Jun 6, 2025

The Dilemma

Ben and Soraya are part of a group project in their science class. The project requires them to build a model of the solar system. Ben, who is very creative, comes up with a unique design that could make their project stand out. However, Soraya suggests a simpler design that she believes will be easier for everyone to contribute to and understand. Ben is excited about his idea and believes it could earn them a top grade, but he also knows that Soraya's plan might foster better teamwork. As the group leader, Ben The next move is up to them.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Creativity
vs
Responsibility

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

Your Options

A

Pursue his creative design.

B

Adopt Soraya's simpler design.

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 important is it for everyone to contribute equally in a group project?

  3. 3

    What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of each design choice?

  4. 4

    How might Marcus Aurelius advise Ben 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 Marcus Aurelius

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

Related Topics

collaboration
creativity
responsibility
Marble bust of Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, featuring curly hair and beard, looking slightly to his left.

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus121-180

Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) was a Roman Emperor and a leading Stoic philosopher. His reign was marked by military conflict and plague, yet he is renowned for his Meditations, a personal journal reflecting on Stoic principles of virtue, duty, and resilience.

Stoicism
Practical application of Stoic philosophy to daily life and leadership
Emphasis on reason, virtue, and duty to the common good (cosmopolis)
Explore how Marcus Aurelius Antoninus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Marcus Aurelius Antoninus or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Understanding Our Nature — 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

Understanding Our Nature — 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