Avoiding Extremes in Spending: Should Dante spend on the game or save for the console?

By AristotleCharacter Development2 min readGrade 8.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Think of a child who spends all their allowance on candy but never saves for a special toy they really want. This teaches the value of saving and spending wisely for what truly matters.

The Choice

Should Dante spend on the game or save for the console?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.4
Word Count
301 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Dante and Sameer bonded over a school project two years ago and haven't stopped talking since. Dante recently received his monthly allowance and is excited about a new game release. However, he's also been saving up for a special gaming console that he really wants, which is still a few months away from his budget. Sameer, on the other hand, suggests they spend the money on the new game now and enjoy it together during the weekend. Dante is torn because he knows if he buys the game, it will delay his savings for the console. He values the fun and immediate enjoyment with Sameer but also understands the importance of saving for something he truly desires. Dante

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Responsibility
vs
Self-Interest

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

Your Options

A

Buy the new game now.

B

Save for the console.

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

    Why might it be hard to decide between fun now and saving for later?

  3. 3

    How does spending wisely show appreciation for what you have?

  4. 4

    How might Aristotle advise Dante 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 Aristotle

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

Related Topics

decision-making
responsibility
self-control
Marble bust of Aristotle, depicting a bearded man with a thoughtful and serious expression, representing the ancient Greek philosopher.

Aristotle384–322 BCE

Aristotle (384–322 BCE), a student of Plato and founder of the Lyceum, was a Greek philosopher whose vast contributions shaped logic (Organon), ethics (eudaimonia, virtue ethics in Nicomachean Ethics), politics (Politics), metaphysics (substance, four cause…

Peripatetic School
Lyceum
Ancient Greek Philosophy
Explore how Aristotle informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Avoiding Extremes in Spending — 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

Avoiding Extremes in Spending — 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