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In
order to live together, humans (and animals) seem to need to have some kind
of mutual understanding. These understandings range from unspoken agreements
to harshly imposed rules. Some rules, like 'Thou shalt drive on the left
hand side of the road' may seem more sensible than others.
Try discussing ideas about whether / how far societies need rules by using
a relevant scenario, e.g. based on education:
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Should
you be free to attend / not attend school? |
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Once
at school, should you be allowed to choose whatever lessons / teachers
you want to? |
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Would
a school work if this were allowed? |
Society benefits by having an educated population. On the other hand, would
having voluntary attendance solve the discipline problems of many schools?
Pupils love discussing the possibility of a 'free' school. The most famous
example of such a school is Summerhill School, founded by A.S. Neill. The
school's website provides thought-provoking material on the history and
ideology of free education.
http://www.first-ask.de/summerhill2001/ |
