All Dilemmas

Value of True Friendship: Should Olivia play with Olga or study with Sarah?

By Epictetus•Relationships & Social Skills•2 min read•Grade 8.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

A student must choose between a friend who always wants to play video games and one who encourages them to study. Choosing the friend who promotes growth reflects the value of true friendship.

The Choice

Should Olivia play with Olga or study with Sarah?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.8
Word Count
297 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Olivia and Olga have known each other long enough to know exactly which buttons not to push. They enjoy spending time together, often playing video games and chatting about their favorite shows. Recently, Olivia has been struggling with her math grades, and her parents have expressed concern. Meanwhile, Olga has been encouraging Olivia to relax and enjoy their time together, suggesting that they play video games to unwind. However, Olivia's new classmate, Sarah, has offered to help Olivia with her math homework. Sarah is known for her excellent grades and has a reputation for being very supportive and helpful. Olivia appreciates Sarah's offer but feels torn because she values her time with Olga and doesn't want to upset her by spending less time together.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Loyalty
vs
Responsibility

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

Your Options

A

Play video games with Olga.

B

Study math with Sarah.

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 spending time with Olga or Sarah affect Olivia's future?

  3. 3

    What are the benefits of choosing fun over responsibility, or vice versa?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Olivia 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?

Did you like this dilemma?

Loading poll data...

Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Epictetus

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

Related Topics

friendship
responsibility
decision-making
Portrait of Epictetus

Epictetusc. 50-c. 135

Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD) was a prominent Stoic philosopher who began life as a slave in Phrygia. After gaining freedom, he taught philosophy in Rome and later established a renowned school in Nicopolis. Though he wrote nothing, his teachings, recorded …

Stoicism
The Dichotomy of Control (what is in our power vs. what is not)
Prohairesis (Moral Choice/Volition) and the Correct Use of Impressions
Explore how Epictetus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Epictetus or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.
View ProfileMore Dilemmas

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Value of True Friendship — 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
Classroom
Standard15 min

Value of True Friendship — 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
Classroom