Directions: Write a concise response putting yourself in the role of "ethicist" and offering advice on how to handle the issue presented.
The issue is "My high school requires that we dissect frogs. I am Buddhist, and we Buddhist have a reverence for all living creatures. I do not even swat mosquito's. My teacher says that I must do the work to pass the course. What should I do"?
I am not really sure how to go about writing this or how to even get started.
Assuming you've already talked with the teacher, I suggest you talk with your counselor. Perhaps the school can find an alternate assignment instead of dissecting frogs.
Everyone has the freedom of religion and no one should be forced to violate the tenets of his/her religious values.
No, it is not me personally. That is the issue I have to write about in english class. I have to write in the role of "ethicist" and offer advice on how to handle the issue.
As the ethicist, you can either address the person directly, using second person pronouns, or you can use third person pronouns. Either way the advice is the same. The person should talk with the school counselor.
As an ethicist, it is important to approach this issue with sensitivity and respect for different belief systems. In this situation, the question is how to reconcile the high school requirement of dissecting frogs with a Buddhist's reverence for all living creatures. To handle this issue, I would suggest the following steps:
1. Understand your own values: Take the time to reflect on your personal beliefs as a Buddhist and your commitment to the principle of non-violence and compassion for all living beings. Consider why this issue is significant to you and what concerns it raises.
2. Research and engage in dialogue: Investigate your school's policy and the reasons behind the dissection requirement. Meet with your teacher and explain your ethical concerns from a Buddhist perspective. Engage in a respectful and open dialogue, as this can foster understanding and a potential resolution.
3. Seek alternative options: Explore alternative ways to learn about the anatomy and biology that do not involve harm to animals. Investigate if there are virtual dissection programs or models that could be used instead of actual frog dissection. Collaborate with your teacher and classmates to find a solution that aligns with both your beliefs and the curriculum requirements.
4. Speak to a higher authority: If your discussions with the teacher do not yield a satisfactory solution, consider speaking to a higher authority within the school, such as a principal or counselor. Share your ethical concerns and seek their guidance or intervention to find a resolution that respects both your religious beliefs and the academic requirements.
5. Advocate for change: If no immediate resolution is found, consider starting a dialogue within the school community or involving local religious organizations to address the issue at a broader level. Raise awareness about the ethical dimensions of animal dissection and advocate for the implementation of alternative methods that respect diverse cultural and religious beliefs.
Remember that each situation may be unique, so it is important to tailor these steps to your specific circumstances. By engaging in respectful dialogue, seeking alternatives, and advocating for change, you can express your beliefs while also striving to find a solution that respects the academic requirements and the principles of Buddhism.