Volume XI, Number III

Does society shape individuals or do individuals shape society? Can one person impact a whole group? How do we balance independence and unity? Kids around the world delve into the questions that define our singular and collective identities. We hope that engaging with these young writers’ ideas and using these discussion questions as a springboard leads you to a fruitful, unique conversation.

1. In the Big Question department, editor Nathan Zhang explores the differences between equality of outcome versus equality of opportunity. In “Is Fairness Worth Sacrificing for Equality?,” Nathan uses the college admissions process to explore the tension between the problems with affirmative action and the dangers of a purely numbers- and exam-based system. Imagine you are the founder of a business start-up or the president of a university; list the 3 most important traits or metrics you would use to evaluate applicants. Be ready to explain your rationale with the group.

2. Sofia Mesh vividly portrays the benefits of reaching outward and helping others in her Interfaith Connections article, “Tikkun Olam.” She recounts how, during a time she was struggling to find meaning and happiness, volunteering brought her a newfound sense of purpose, grounding in reality, and happiness. Think of a time you helped someone else, or did work that contributed to the public good. List two ways your actions helped your community, and two ways the action and experience benefitted you. As a group, explore the following questions: “Does helping others always help the individual?” and “Does getting a benefit from good deeds take away any of their meaning?”

3. In “Dress to Impress . . . Yourself,” an Awesome Moments article by Megan Kelleher, we follow her journey to overcome the fear of her classmates’ judgment. After some of her peers mock her outfit on a stressful exam day, Megan resolves to dress in a way that she wants, rather than aspiring to fit in. Think of a time when you risked social embarrassment or something that you do, against your wishes, to avoid the judgment of others. Why and how were you able to overcome this fear of judgment, or how do you think you could overcome it in the future?

4. Courtney E. Martin, an author, entrepreneur, and facilitator, contributes this issue’s PerSpectives article. In “An Activist’s Heart,” student Breena Gant interviews Ms. Martin, who gives advice on how to stay hopeful and find inspiration to help others. List a few problems facing your community or the world that you think are most important. Brainstorm ways, however small, you can address them, or steps you already take. Are there any organizations you can join or support? Do you want to start your own? What inspires you to take positive steps?