Taboo Topics

Philosophical questions lead us to come to terms with our own belief systems, values and judgements.  We are bombarded with moral and political messages and images from the media, peers and family on a constant basis and cannot escape their impact on the way we view the world.  Whose right is it to shape children's beliefs?

The preference sometimes voiced by parents that their children not discuss issues like religion, sex and politics in school settings is usually based on two concerns: that positions on these issues will be seen by children as endorsed by the teacher and school, and that children who are encouraged in a classroom to question or think critically about their own or their family's religious, moral, or political beliefs, might end up abandoning those beliefs.

What then is the role of the teacher?  What is the purpose of a classroom?  What makes a good teacher?

A good teacher does not lecture.  A good teacher does not silence other voices or opinions.  A good teacher does not overlook the multiple perspectives on any one subject.  A good teacher provokes inquiry.  A good teacher engages minds.  A good teacher establishes democratic interaction.

Is the school as a social institution responsible for covering such "taboo" topics?  Is prohibiting their discussion a form of censorship or an infringement on any rights?  What do you think is the underlying reason for not wanting these topics broached outside of the household?  Are these issues important to discuss and why?

"We have, in fact, two kinds of morality side by side: one which we preach but do not practice, and another which we practice but seldom preach. " 

Bertrand Russell

Equality

One of the tenants of democracy is the idea of equality and maintaining a goverment and society where everyone contributes, has a voice and is valued as an equal.  We attempt to treat everyone the same but as is historically evident, this creed has not been upheld.

Kurt Vonnegut criticizes the government of 2081 to highlight the faults of the extreme ideal of total equality.  Through the Handicapper General, the handicaps themselves and the outcome and fate of Harrison, we get a glimpse into the consequences of this direction.

In what ways have you or someone you know been subject to discrimination?  How were you treated differently or denied opportunities?  Why do you think that kind of discrimination exists? What needs to be in place to prevent that inequality from happening? Explore the issue of equality as a personal reflection.

In my own experience I can recall an incident I faced as a sophomore in college.  I took a job as a cashier at a deli/pizza place called "Campus Corner".  After working for a few months, I noticed that the delivery drivers were making more money than I was because they received tips in addition to an hourly rate.  I wanted the opportunity to earn as much and asked my boss if I could work as a delivery person.  His response was that it was not a job for girls because it was dangerous.  I was disappointed in this excuse and felt discriminated against because of my gender.  I subsequently quit.  This incident led to my interest in Women's Rights and I pursued a Women's Studies concentration in my academic studies.

Although America strives to uphold equal opportunities, we have a way to go. 

As feminist Betty Friedan wrote:  "A girl should not expect special privileges because of her sex, but neither should she adjust to prejudice and discrimination."