1.

After each statement, decide which option matches what you believe to
be true.

2. When you have filled out all ten, choose one and write a SCR explaining
why you agree/disagree etc. Be sure to provide specific (real world)
examples in your explanation.

Statement Strongly Disagree Agree Strongly

Disagree Agree
1. People given authority will often
abuse that authority.
2. People needs some set of rules in
order to maintain order and peace.
3. A central authority figure will
eventually emerge in a given society.
4. Once put into power, a leader has the
responsibility to act in the best interest
of the people he/she is serving, no
matter what.
5. Our environment has a big impact on
how we live our lives.
6. Society does not tolerate outsiders.
7. War is an inevitable part of human
society.
8. The needs of many outweigh the
needs of the few.
9. People are essentially good at heart.
10. The force of good is stronger than the
force of evil.

Once everyone has taken a position and written down his/her thoughts, participants will be asked to
explain why they agree/disagree etc. Everyone is free to change his/her mind during the discussion, if
they are convinced by an argument.
This activity is a tool to stimulate discussion about the issues, collect different arguments and be
confronted with a range of opinions.
For respectful discussions to occur, each individual must RESPECT the opinion and voice of
each member within the classroom. Authentic and progressive discussion cannot occur when we
shut down the opinion of others. When one person is speaking, we must be active listeners,
meaning not only listening to what they are saying, but absorbing it into our own consciousness
and reflecting upon how we can intelligently and respectfully respond. If you find yourself
unable to follow respectful collaborative discussion, you will be politely asked/told not to
participate.