Forms of Government Reflect Relationships: Should Valentina choose the traditional theme or the new one?

By AristotleSchool & Academic Life2 min readGrade 9.6
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

In a family, a parent might guide their children with care, similar to a king who looks out for his subjects. This shows how good leadership involves taking care of others and sharing responsibilities.

The Choice

Should Valentina choose the traditional theme or the new one?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 9.6
Word Count
307 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Valentina and Gabriela bonded over a school project two years ago and haven't stopped talking since. This year, they are tasked with planning the annual school fair. Valentina is elected as the leader, while Gabriela is her second-in-command. As the fair approaches, they face a dilemma: the school principal offers them a chance to choose between two themes. One theme is a traditional one that everyone is familiar with, ensuring a safe and predictable outcome. The other is a new, exciting theme that could attract more students but involves more risk and responsibility. Valentina feels the weight of her leadership role, knowing that her decision will affect not only the success of the event but also her friendship with Gabriela, who is excited about the new theme. Valentina No one else can make this call.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Responsibility
vs
Loyalty

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

Your Options

A

Choose the traditional theme.

B

Choose the new theme.

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 do you think Valentina's choice reflects her leadership style?

  3. 3

    What are the potential risks and rewards of each option?

  4. 4

    How might Aristotle advise Valentina 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

leadership
responsibility
friendship
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.
Learn more about Aristotle or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Forms of Government Reflect Relationships — 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

Forms of Government Reflect Relationships — 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