Liam, a 12-year-old, loves playing soccer and is part of his school's team...

By Frederick Douglass•Technology Ethics•2 min read•Grade 8.2
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.2
Word Count
306 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Liam, a 12-year-old, loves playing soccer and is part of his school's team. During a crucial match, the referee, Mr. Johnson, makes several unfair calls against Liam's team. His friend Obi notices that Mr. Johnson's son is on the opposing team, which raises suspicions of bias. As the game progresses, Liam's team becomes increasingly frustrated, feeling the unfairness of the situation. During halftime, Obi suggests they should speak up about the unfair refereeing to their coach, but others on the team are hesitant, fearing it might lead to negative consequences or even a penalty. Liam

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Fairness
vs
Loyalty

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

Your Options

A

Speak up about unfair refereeing.

B

Stay silent about the unfairness.

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 authority influence fairness in sports?

  3. 3

    What are the risks and benefits of speaking up?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Liam 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
standing-up-for-others
power-dynamics
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
Civil Rights Advocacy
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

Liam, a 12-year-old, loves playing soccer and is part of his school's team... — 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

Liam, a 12-year-old, loves playing soccer and is part of his school's team... — 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