Overview
Consider a situation where a student is bullied at school. They realize that the pain they feel should motivate them to stand up against bullying, not to become a bully themselves. Instead, they decide to help others who are being mistreated.
The Choice
Should Emily speak up for Alex or stay silent?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 7.2
- Word Count
- 316 words
- Published
- Jun 7, 2025
The Dilemma
Emily and Chinedu are both twelve years old and attend the same middle school. They are good friends and often hang out together during breaks. One day, during lunch, Emily notices a group of students teasing a younger boy named Alex. The teasing starts with harmless jokes but quickly escalates to mean comments about Alex's appearance. Emily feels uncomfortable watching this unfold. She remembers how upset she felt when she was teased last year, and she doesn't want Alex to feel the same way. Chinedu, on the other hand, is laughing along with the group, not realizing the impact it might have on Alex. Emily is torn between wanting to fit in with her friends and the urge to stand up for Alex. She knows that if she speaks up, she might become the target of teasing herself, but if she stays silent, she feels like she's letting Alex down.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Speak up for Alex.
Stay silent and avoid attention.
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
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How might Alex feel if no one stands up for him?
- 3
What are the risks and benefits of speaking up?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Emily in this situation?
- 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?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
