John Locke on Should they keep their original rule or take turns?

By John LockeTechnology Ethics2 min readGrade 4.5
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Liam and Mia are playing a game in the park. They make a rule that whoever finds the most shiny rocks gets to be the leader for the day.

The Choice

Should they keep their original rule or take turns?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades K-2
Reading Level
Level 4.544278996865206
Word Count
232 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Liam and Mia are playing a game in the park. They make a rule that whoever finds the most shiny rocks gets to be the leader for the day. Mia finds more rocks, but Liam wants to change the rule so everyone can share the leader role. "But we agreed on the rule!" says Mia. "Maybe we should take turns anyway," replies Liam.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Fairness
vs
Compassion

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

Your Options

A

Keep the original rule.

B

Take turns being leader.

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

    Why did they make the first rule?

  2. 2

    How does Mia feel about sharing leadership?

  3. 3

    What might happen if they change the rule?

  4. 4

    Why is it important to follow rules?

  5. 5

    How can they make sure everyone is happy?

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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

fairness
agreements
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…

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Liberalism
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Explore how John Locke informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
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