The
Gold Coin, by Alma Flor Ada, presents several
philosophic issues that can be explored through class discussion. These
issues involve
notions of happiness, wealth, stealing, and giving. These themes are
important
to explore, especially in today's society where there is increasing
emphasis on material wealth. By exploring these philosophic issues
and delving
into a deeper understanding of our own individual views, one can hope
to develop a stronger sense of community and intrinsic satisfaction.
Everywhere we look, we are bombarded with ads. Our
society has twisted to place extreme emphasis on material wealth,
and deriving happiness from that wealth. While some people relate "wealth" and being "rich" only to money, the concept of "wealth"
can go far past finances. Friends, relationships, intellectual accomplishments,
and societal contributions can all contribute to a "rich life".
It is important for students to examine the notions of wealth and
giving.
Many people argue that while we may not always have an endless supply
of money to keep or give, our wells of kindness and compassion are
bottomless and can be equally, if not more, valuable.
Stealing is
an issue that The Gold Coin raises, and it is inherently
linked whenever we discuss matters of material wealth. While at
first glance, the notion of stealing may seem black and white,
there are several moral complications that are worth exploring.
While some members of our society enjoy great affluence, others
are burdened with poverty. It can be disturbing to see greedy hoarding.
Thus, some people may justify stealing as a way to redistribute
the wealth so everyone has something. Other people, however, believe
that since thievery is morally wrong, one can never be happy if
they are doing something wrong, even if it improves their living
condition.
Many people argue that in order to truly understand
our own happiness, we must be able to understand happiness in
others. They believe that happiness is rarely comprised of individual
construction. Instead, we are social beings and rely on our community
structure for support, encouragement, and thus, happiness. Part of
what makes us social beings is being attuned to how others are feeling.
Instinctively, we often adopt whatever emotion is circulating. If
members of a household are irritable one afternoon, that feeling
is often contagious. Conversely, we are able to raise our own spirits
by making someone else feel happier. A man who has all the money
in the world but no human interaction and relationships, may not
be able to sustain his happiness for long. While some people believe
that each individual is responsible for his own happiness, others
argue that as a community, we must look beyond our own immediate
needs and desires to consider those around us, which in turn, gives
the individual power and a sense of belonging.
The questions for
The Gold Coin serve as a launching point for deeper discussion.
There are four categories of questions: those dealing with stealing,
happiness, wealth, and finally, those dealing with giving. However,
these issues are inherently linked, so it is natural for there
to be some overlap and jumping between themes. These issues are
complex and there are no clear cut answers. What may seem right
in one context may feel wrong in another. By exploring our own
definitions and values, as well as being exposed to others' views,
one hopes that students will develop stronger, more thought-out
ideals, and will become stronger, more sensitive individuals and
active members of society.
Continue
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