Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.4
- Word Count
- 333 words
- Published
- Jan 1, 2024
The Dilemma
Sameer and Emily met on the first day of middle school and quickly became each other's most trusted confidants. Recently, during a friendly match at the local park, Sameer noticed that Emily was being overly competitive and often bending the rules to win. One day, during a crucial game, Emily asked Sameer to pretend he didn't see her handball, which would give their team an unfair advantage. Sameer felt uncomfortable with this request, as he valued fairness and honesty. However, he also didn't want to upset Emily or risk losing her friendship. As the game continued, Sameer struggled with the decision. He knew that if he ignored the handball, he would be compromising his own values and self-respect. On the other hand, if he called out the infraction, he might upset Emily and face social pressure from his teammates. Sameer
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
Ignore Emily's handball.
Call out the handball.
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers ā the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
Why is it important to maintain self-respect?
- 3
How can standing up for fairness impact friendships?
- 4
How might Frederick Douglass advise Sameer 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 Frederick Douglass
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
