Unity with Others: An Inclusion Dilemma

By Marcus AureliusRelationships & Social Skills2 min readGrade 11.1
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 11.1
Word Count
320 words
Published
Jan 19, 2025

The Dilemma

Violet and Chinedu are in the same class and often find themselves working on group projects together. Recently, their teacher assigned a new project, and Violet noticed that Chinedu seemed a bit distant and less enthusiastic about participating. During lunch, Violet overhears Chinedu telling another classmate that he feels left out and thinks his ideas aren't valued by the group. Violet remembers how much better their projects turn out when everyone collaborates and contributes. She considers how important it is for everyone to feel included and respected. As the project deadline approaches, Violet No one else can make this call.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Compassion
vs
Integrity

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

Your Options

A

Continue without involving Chinedu.

B

Encourage Chinedu to participate.

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 might Chinedu feel left out?

  3. 3

    How can including Chinedu benefit the project?

  4. 4

    How might Marcus Aurelius advise Violet 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 Marcus Aurelius

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

Related Topics

inclusion
collaboration
empathy
Marble bust of Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, featuring curly hair and beard, looking slightly to his left.

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus121-180

Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) was a Roman Emperor and a leading Stoic philosopher. His reign was marked by military conflict and plague, yet he is renowned for his Meditations, a personal journal reflecting on Stoic principles of virtue, duty, and resilience.

Stoicism
Practical application of Stoic philosophy to daily life and leadership
Emphasis on reason, virtue, and duty to the common good (cosmopolis)
Explore how Marcus Aurelius Antoninus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Marcus Aurelius Antoninus or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Unity with Others — 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

Unity with Others — 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