Lars and Chen are working on a group science project with two other classmates...

By Frederick Douglass•Technology Ethics•2 min read•Grade 8.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.4
Word Count
317 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Lars and Chen are working on a group science project with two other classmates. As the deadline approaches, Lars notices that Chen has been doing most of the work while the other two members are slacking off, yet they are still eager to take equal credit. Chen seems overwhelmed but hasn't said anything to the teacher because he doesn't want to cause trouble or seem like a tattletale. Lars feels it's unfair that Chen is doing all the work and worries about the project's quality if things continue this way. He considers whether he should talk to the teacher about the situation. However, he fears that doing so might upset Chen or make the other group members angry with him. Lars No one else can make this call.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Fairness
vs
Responsibility

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

Your Options

A

Speak up to the teacher.

B

Stay silent about the issue.

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 difficult for Lars to speak up?

  3. 3

    How does fairness play a role in this situation?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Lars 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 Frederick Douglass

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

Related Topics

fairness
responsibility
peer-pressure
Portrait of Frederick Douglass, a distinguished African American man with a beard and intense gaze, embodying dignity and intellect.

Frederick Douglassc. 1818-1895

Born into slavery, Frederick Douglass (c. 1818-1895) became a prominent American abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. His powerful autobiographies and speeches exposed the horrors of slavery and advocated for emancipation and equal rights for all, i…

Abolitionism
American Philosophy
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Explore how Frederick Douglass informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Frederick Douglass or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Lars and Chen are working on a group science project with two other classmates... — 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

Lars and Chen are working on a group science project with two other classmates... — 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