EMS is committed to fostering future leaders who can collaborate effectively despite differences. To achieve this goal, Head of Middle School and Director of Secondary School Placement Jed Silverstein, Ph.D., and his team developed the Ethics Bowl, a part of the Leadership Lab at Morrow House. Seventh-grade students learn to articulate their perspectives on ethical dilemmas while engaging in constructive debates with those who hold differing views.
An Ethics Bowl distinguishes itself from conventional debating challenges by encouraging students to defend their genuine beliefs rather than adopting assigned viewpoints. Success in an Ethics Bowl is measured not by victory over opponents but by the rigor and systematic approach with which students analyze cases and engage respectfully with all viewpoints. This format fosters invaluable skills in navigating complex moral dilemmas with thoroughness, systematic thinking, and open-mindedness, ultimately aiding students in clarifying and refining their personal moral compass.
“In today’s society, cultivating ethical citizens is paramount,” says Dr. Silverstein. “By instilling these foundational skills in our students, we empower them to navigate complex moral landscapes and contribute meaningfully to our world. At Morrow House, we believe there is no greater gift than equipping the next generation with the tools to become conscientious, moral leaders.”
ETHICS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL
Drawing inspiration from the National High School Ethics Bowl, a prestigious national event for high school students that promotes respectful, supportive, and rigorous discussion of ethics among thousands of students nationwide, our adapted Ethics Bowl caters specifically to our middle school students by modifying the debate subjects to be age-appropriate. A culminating debate welcoming the entire EMS community will be held on June 5.
Throughout the Ethics Bowl, students master logical reasoning, effective rhetoric, and ethical theory. These enduring skills and knowledge, dating back to Greco-Roman times, form the foundation of constructive dialogue. By integrating ancient wisdom with modern challenges, our students are empowered to embody the kind of visionary leadership that the future demands.
Learn more about Leadership Lab and our Career Talks that brought together our eighth graders with experts in their fields to discuss different career paths.
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