Based on the “key ideas” and the different perspectives of your classmates AFTER READING the article, ”A teen and a trolley reveal society’s dark side” (see link above), write a paragraph about how and why this shows that it is important to have, and to understand, differing opinions on a topic. Use examples from the article and/or the various ideas presented from the discussion to help support your thinking.

Answer 1

The article "A teen and a trolley reveal society’s dark side" explores the ethical dilemma of whether it is permissible to sacrifice one individual to save a larger group. Through the various perspectives shared by my classmates after reading the article, it becomes evident that having differing opinions on a topic is essential for a deeper understanding of complex issues. For example, one classmate highlighted the utilitarian approach of maximizing overall happiness by sacrificing one for the greater good, while another pointed out the deontological perspective of respecting individual rights and dignity. The diversity of opinions and insights provided a more comprehensive view of the ethical implications involved in making such a decision. By considering opposing viewpoints, we are able to critically analyze the ethical dimensions of a scenario and gain a more nuanced understanding of the complexities at play. This underscores the importance of fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are encouraged and valued, as it ultimately leads to a more well-rounded and informed discussion on ethical dilemmas like the one presented in the article.