Natural Needs vs. Fancy Desires: Should Daiki save his money or buy the new console?

By John LockeCharacter Development2 min readGrade 8.3
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

A child wants the latest toy but has enough toys already. By understanding that they don’t need it, they learn to appreciate what they have and make room for more meaningful experiences.

The Choice

Should Daiki save his money or buy the new console?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.3
Word Count
323 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Daiki and Mohan have been inseparable since the third grade, always pushing each other to try new things. One day, while browsing online, Daiki discovers a new video game console that promises the ultimate gaming experience. The problem is, Daiki already has a perfectly good console at home, and his parents have set a rule about not buying new gadgets unless necessary. Daiki is torn because he knows how much fun he and Mohan could have with the new console, and Mohan is also excited about the idea. However, Daiki remembers his parents' rule and the fact that they have limited space at home. He also recalls his parents' advice about valuing what he already has and not giving in to every new trend. As Daiki contemplates, he realizes this is more about wanting something new rather than needing it. Daiki

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Contentment
vs
Self-Discipline

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

Your Options

A

Save money and keep current console.

B

Buy the new console for latest games.

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 do you think Daiki's parents set the rule about new gadgets?

  3. 3

    How can Daiki decide if he truly needs the new console or just wants it?

  4. 4

    How might John Locke advise Daiki 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 John Locke

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

Related Topics

contentment
decision-making
self-control
Portrait of John Locke, the English Enlightenment philosopher

John Locke1632-1704

John Locke (1632-1704) was a highly influential English philosopher and physician, widely regarded as one of the most important Enlightenment thinkers. Known as the 'Father of Liberalism' and founder of British empiricism, he profoundly impacted Western pol…

Empiricism
Liberalism
Development of Empiricism (Tabula Rasa)
Explore how John Locke informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about John Locke or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Natural Needs vs. Fancy Desires — 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

Natural Needs vs. Fancy Desires — 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