Mary Wollstonecraft on Should Emma and Alex divide the space equally for all artists?

By Mary WollstonecraftFairness & Justice2 min readGrade 10.8
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Emma and Alex are in charge of organizing the school's art exhibit. They have to decide how to allocate the space: should it be equal for everyone regardless of their skill level, or should they give more space to the students with higher quality artwork?

The Choice

Should Emma and Alex divide the space equally for all artists?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 10.785228070175442
Word Count
300 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Emma and Alex are in charge of organizing the school's art exhibit. They have to decide how to allocate the space: should it be equal for everyone regardless of their skill level, or should they give more space to the students with higher quality artwork? "It's not fair if we don't give everyone a fair shot," Emma argues. "But more people might enjoy the exhibit if we show the best works," Alex replies.

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

Divide the space equally among all artists.

B

Allocate more space to higher quality artwork.

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 benefits of dividing the space equally?

  2. 2

    What might be the consequences of only showing the best art?

  3. 3

    How does fairness play a role in their decision?

  4. 4

    Could prioritizing quality over equality impact student participation?

  5. 5

    What would you consider if you were in charge of the exhibit?

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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
fairness
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