Dialogue versus debates: Amid a contentious period, 'Ethics Bowl' presents students a more amicable solution
High school debate meets philosophical discussion in the National High School Ethics Bowl, a competition unlike any other. Unlike traditional debate, where students are assigned to argue for or against a specific position, Ethics Bowl encourages teams to collaborate and co-create ethical understandings.
Take the stage, two high school teams grappling with thorny ethical dilemmas. No sides are assigned, no opponents are assigned to tear down arguments; instead, team members delve into the complexities of each case, crafting perspectives based on their own moral compasses, communicating insights, and valuing diverse viewpoints.
Ethics Bowl is not simply a debate tournament; it's a quest for understanding. According to Robert Ladenson, who developed the Ethics Bowl, an ethical understanding goes beyond merely being aware of differing viewpoints. It requires empathy, understanding the moral outlook of those with differing beliefs – and, importantly, recognizing that it's okay to agree with others.
Step into the world of Ethics Bowl. The case, "See Spot Clone," ignites a discussion about the ethics of cloning beloved pets. Harpeth Hall from Nashville considers the case from various angles: homeless pets, cloning's potential health issues, and the importance of confronting mortality. Miami's Archimedean Upper Conservatory asks probing questions, probing deeper into pet breeding, the value of personal happiness, and the ethics of self-interest.
The rounds don't end with a winner proclaimed, but rather with a new case, another opportunity for teams to thoughtfully engage and explore different ethical perspectives. Ethics Bowl isn't a competitive tournament in the traditional sense; it's a pursuit of truth, an open dialogue around age-old questions, a chance for students to engage respectfully in deep discussions.
"When it's about constructively answering a question and having an interesting, engaging conversation, that's where you get to have all these amazing conversations," says Lizzie Lyman, a student whose team lost in the semifinals. "When it becomes about winning and beating the other team, it gets hostile and ... just unsavory."
Competition takes a backseat in the Ethics Bowl. It's about truth, respect, and getting to the moral heart of each question. Winners are those who prioritize truth and respect over winning, as stated by Mae Bradford of the winning BASIS Flagstaff team. The National High School Ethics Bowl fosters well-rounded students who think critically, engage objectively, and integrate various perspectives. The competition, just 12 years old, already boasts hundreds of participating teams across the country.
Ultimately, the Ethics Bowl offers students a platform for growth. It encourages open-mindedness, facilitates thoughtful discussions, and instills an appreciation for ethical inquiry. As Sona Zarkou, another BASIS Flagstaff competitor, put it: The Ethics Bowl helps students "turn the discussion to something a lot more respectful, a lot more truth-oriented." After all, isn't that what we all strive for in our daily lives?
- The government could consider sponsoring more Ethics Bowl competitions nationwide, as they encourage lifelong learning, personal growth, and mindfulness among the youth.
- Furthermore, the Ethics Bowl's emphasis on understanding different perspectives can be instrumental in promoting job readiness, as it equips students with the ability to cooperate and communicate effectively in various professional environments.
- In the midst of rising crime rates, the Seattle police department could organize workshops or programs inspired by the Ethics Bowl, promoting discussions on ethical behavior and decision-making among its officers.
- The Ethics Bowl's emphasis on empathy and diverse viewpoints aligns well with education and self-development, making it a valuable resource for schools aiming to instill these principles in their students.
- As students navigate through life, it would be beneficial for them to approach challenges with the same level of critical thinking and open-mindedness demonstrated in the Ethics Bowl, fostering a culture of ethical inquiry and lifelong learning.
