Mary Wollstonecraft on Should Emma publish Alex's controversial article?

By Mary WollstonecraftFairness & Justice2 min readGrade 11.4
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Emma is the editor of the high school newspaper. "Emma, you need to decide," Alex says.

The Choice

Should Emma publish Alex's controversial article?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 9-12
Reading Level
Level 11.406753375449032
Word Count
351 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Emma is the editor of the high school newspaper. Her friend, Alex, wrote an article about the lack of diversity in school sports teams. The article includes strong language calling for immediate changes and equal representation. Some teachers think it's too controversial and might cause unrest, while others believe it's an important discussion that needs to be had. Emma knows that publishing the article could lead to backlash from the administration, but censoring it could mean silencing a critical conversation. "Emma, you need to decide," Alex says. "Are we going to let this get published or not?"

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Equality
vs
Fairness

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

Your Options

A

Publish the article and risk backlash.

B

Hold the article to avoid conflict.

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 are the potential risks of publishing the article?

  2. 2

    How might censoring the article affect school dynamics?

  3. 3

    What does equality mean in the context of school sports?

  4. 4

    How important is it to address controversial issues publicly?

  5. 5

    In what ways does this decision impact freedom of expression?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Mary Wollstonecraft

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

Related Topics

equality
freedom of expression
Portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft by John Opie, circa 1797, showing her in a white dress and black hat, looking thoughtfully to her left.

Mary Wollstonecraft1759-1797

Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) was a pioneering English feminist philosopher and writer. Her seminal work, 'A Vindication of the Rights of Woman' (1792), argued for women's rationality and the necessity of their education for societal progress.

Feminist Philosophy
Enlightenment Philosophy
Liberalism
Explore how Mary Wollstonecraft informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Mary Wollstonecraft or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

The Principle of Equality — 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