All Dilemmas

Responsibility for Opinions: Should Ali focus on his fears or view the presentation as a learning opportunity?

By Epictetus•Character Development•2 min read•Grade 8.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

If a student feels anxious about a presentation, they can reflect on their thoughts about it, realizing that their nervousness comes from their own fears rather than the actual presentation itself.

The Choice

Should Ali focus on his fears or view the presentation as a learning opportunity?

Quick Stats

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

The Dilemma

Ali and Leilani are both excited about the upcoming school science fair. Ali has been working hard on his project about renewable energy, while Leilani is focusing on a project about marine life conservation. As the fair approaches, Ali starts feeling anxious about presenting in front of the judges and classmates. He worries about forgetting his lines or making mistakes. Leilani, noticing Ali's distress, offers to help him practice. During their practice sessions, Ali realizes that his anxiety stems more from his fear of judgment than the actual presentation. Leilani reminds him that the fair is an opportunity to share his passion and knowledge, not just a performance. Ali The decision isn't easy.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Responsibility
vs
Self-Knowledge

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

Your Options

A

Focus on his fears.

B

View it as a learning opportunity.

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 Ali's feelings might change if he shifts his perspective?

  3. 3

    Why might it be hard for Ali to change his opinion about the presentation?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Ali 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 Epictetus

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

Related Topics

responsibility
self-awareness
anxiety-coping
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.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Responsibility for Opinions — 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

Responsibility for Opinions — 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