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Mr. Peterson's Dilemma Essay - Ethics
Mr. Peterson's Dilemma Essay - Ethics
Peterson’s Dilemma
Instructions: Read carefully the story below and answer the questions which follow.
Mr. Peterson teaches a social studies class in the local high school. Because of his
great rapport with his students, he is known as one of the best teachers in the school.
One day after a class discussion of contemporary problems in America, several class
members approached Mr. Peterson in his office to tell him that they planned to
boycott the school cafeteria in support of the migrant farm workers across the country.
Previously, the students had picketed the local grocery store and passed out leaflets in
their neighborhood. They had also circulated a petition and had written letters to the
school authorities in an attempt to stop the school from purchasing non-union lettuce
and grapes. Both of these attempts to change school policy had failed.
The students indicated that they not only planned to boycott the cafeteria, but hoped
to shut it down by setting up a picket line during lunch hours. The students told Mr.
Peterson about the planned boycott because of the many class discussions in which
they had talked about the American tradition of protest. They also insisted that the
success of the boycott depended on Mr. Peterson not breaking their confidence; they
did not want the school administration to know about the plans.
Mr. Peterson feels sure that other teachers and the administration do not know about
the planned boycott. He also knows that part of the student body would not be
sympathetic to the boycott and this could result in a physical confrontation. According
to the school rule, any organized student gathering on school grounds must be cleared
by school officials. Mr. Peterson also knows that faculty members are supposed to
notify the school administration of any activity which may interfere with the school
schedule.
Mr. Peterson discussed the various implications of the boycott with the students. The
students understand these; however, they are determined to go through with the plan.
Should Mr. Peterson tell the school administration of the impending boycott and
picket line? Why, or why not? Your answers to these questions will determine the
level of moral development according to Kohlberg’s Theory.