Overview
Alex is a senior at Hillside High and is president of the student council. The council has promised to host a charity bake sale for a local shelter, but Alex's best friend, Jordan, needs help studying for a crucial math exam on the same day.
The Choice
Should Alex fulfill the council duty or help Jordan?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 9-12
- Reading Level
- Level 11.295000000000002
- Word Count
- 350 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Alex is a senior at Hillside High and is president of the student council. The council has promised to host a charity bake sale for a local shelter, but Alex's best friend, Jordan, needs help studying for a crucial math exam on the same day. Jordan says, "If I fail, I won't graduate on time." Alex knows the responsibility to the council and the shelter but feels a strong duty to help Jordan as a friend.
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
Hold the bake sale for the charity.
Help Jordan study for the math exam.
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 obligations does Alex have to the student council?
- 2
How important is the promise made to the charity?
- 3
What are the potential consequences for Jordan if Alex doesn't help?
- 4
How might Alex's future relationship with Jordan be affected?
- 5
How should one prioritize duties to friends versus community responsibilities?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Immanuel Kant
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.