Dalton News

Dr. Elizabeth Kiss, Ethics Scholar, Speaks to the Faculty and Asks: What Would Katniss Do?

September 4, 2013 ~ In support of renewed emphasis on nurturing of ethical decision-making in the classroom, Ellen Stein, Head of School, invited the faculty to consider how the pop media book and movie sensation, “The Hunger Games” can open doors into deeper discussions about ethical dilemmas; standing up for one’s own beliefs in the midst of rigorous competition.
Dr. Elizabeth Kiss, President of Agnes Scott College, used film clips to illustrate the dilemmas that Katniss faced in the first book and movie. She illustrated Katniss' social and ethical pressures and how her journey is similar to those our students face daily at school and in society where expectations are high and temptations are many. Dr. Kiss (pronounced quiche) asked, “How do we cultivate humane and authentic selves in the midst of social pressure, competition and status anxiety?”
 
She pointed out that, "Katniss is strong, true, smart and unconventional. She is an ideal role model, particularly suited for teenagers and young women.” She stands up for what she believes, even if it is unpopular. She is a creative thinker. 
 
While a few members of the faculty shared their skepticism about the idea of simply using pop culture trends as teaching tools, there was consensus that finding students where they are, through pop culture examples, is one way to hook them into engaging in deeper, more intelligent discourse in class, which leads to more scholarly, philosophical sources.

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