Overview
Maria is elected as the president of her school's student council. She is excited about the opportunity to lead and implement changes.
The Choice
Should Maria support the policy despite her beliefs?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 9-12
- Reading Level
- Level 11.324763580073181
- Word Count
- 323 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Maria is elected as the president of her school's student council. She is excited about the opportunity to lead and implement changes. However, her principal privately asks her to support a policy she believes is unfair to a group of students. "Maria, backing this policy will greatly benefit the school financially," the principal says. Maria respects the principal and wants to support the school, but she also believes in treating every student with respect and fairness.
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
Support the policy for the school's benefit.
Oppose the policy to stand by her beliefs.
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 does it mean to respect someone's authority?
- 2
How might this decision impact Maria's integrity?
- 3
What are the short-term benefits of supporting the policy?
- 4
What message does Maria's choice send to other students?
- 5
Can respecting someone conflict with respecting others?
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.