Title: PROTOTYPE COLUMN

Jack's Problem

Read the following conversation between Jack and Olivia where Jack describes a problem he's been dealing with.

Q: Describe Jack's problem.
A: Jack's problem is that his friend Mike cheated on a math test, and because they sit next to each other, the teacher suspects that Jack cheated as well. Jack is faced with the dilemma of whether to tell the teacher the truth, which could get Mike in serious trouble, or to stay silent and risk being unfairly blamed for cheating. He is torn between the importance of honesty and the loyalty he feels towards his friend.

Q: What would you do if you were in Jack's situation?
A: If I were in Jack's situation, I would first talk to Mike and explain the severity of the situation. I would give him a chance to come clean to the teacher himself. If he refuses, I would then consider telling the truth to the teacher, explaining that while I understand the importance of loyalty, I also value honesty and fairness. This way, I have given my friend a chance to rectify his mistake while also standing up for my own integrity.

Discussion

Share your thoughts with the rest of the class.

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Ethical behavior

Jack's problem is such a difficult one because it is related to ethical principals. Read the following infobox to find out more about ethical behavior.

Q: Read through the chat again and then answer the following question: What would be ethical behavior in the described situation?
A: Ethical behavior in the described situation would involve balancing honesty and loyalty. Jack should consider speaking to Mike first, encouraging him to come forward and admit to cheating. This approach respects the value of honesty while giving Mike a chance to take responsibility for his actions. If Mike refuses, Jack should then consider informing the teacher of his innocence, as it's important to maintain personal integrity and not accept blame for something he didn't do.

Q: Can you think of other ethical problems that are similar to the one described in the chat?
A: Other ethical problems similar to the one described in the chat could include situations where you witness a colleague stealing from work but are unsure whether to report it because it might lead to their termination. Another example could be if you see a friend shoplifting, and you have to decide between reporting them or keeping silent to maintain your friendship. These scenarios, like the one described, involve a conflict between honesty and loyalty.

Work in pairs

Together with your neighbor, look at the conversation from the chat again and think about what Jack will decide to do in the end and how he will justify his decision.

Then practice the conversation so that you can present it to the class. You don't need to memorize the conversation word for word; the important thing is that it is clear who is taking which position.

Afterward, present your conversation with Jack's decision at the end.

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Additional information for teachers

Here you can find a sample solution for the last task.

Jack: Hey Olivia! Can I ask for your advice on something?

Olivia: Of course, what's going on?

Jack: My friend Mike cheated on the math test, and now the teacher thinks I did too because we sit next to each other. Should I tell the teacher what really happened?

Olivia: That's a tough situation. If you tell the truth, Mike could get into a lot of trouble. Are you sure you want to put your friend in that position?

Jack: I know, but if I don't say anything, I might get blamed for something I didn't do. Plus, honesty is important, right?

Olivia: Honesty is definitely important, but so is being loyal to your friends. Maybe you could talk to Mike first and see if he'll admit what he did.

Jack: I thought about that, but what if he refuses? I don't want to get punished for something I didn't do.

Olivia: I understand, but you have to consider how this could affect your friendship with Mike. Is it worth the risk of losing him as a friend?

Jack: I don't want to lose him as a friend, but I also don't want to lie about what happened. It's a really difficult situation.

Olivia: It really is. Maybe there's a way to support Mike without lying.

Jack: That's a good point. Maybe I can talk to Mike and explain how serious this is for both of us. If he understands the consequences, he might decide to come clean himself.

Olivia: That sounds like a good plan. It shows you're being honest but also giving Mike a chance to do the right thing.

Jack: Yeah, I'll talk to Mike and see if he’ll admit what he did. If he understands the impact, hopefully, he'll make the right choice.

Olivia: I think that's a solid approach. Good luck, Jack. Let me know how it goes.

Jack: Thanks, Olivia. I appreciate your help. I'll let you know what happens.