Martin Luther – Responsibility
“You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say.”
Martin Luther
Big Idea
Responsibility is a scary word for students. It means that they should take ownership over their own thoughts and actions and not blame others for what happens. Sometimes, other people’s actions impact their lives and force them to consider what they should or should not do. Feelings of responsibility strike at the heart of ethical decision-making.
Claim
Theologian Martin Luther provides an interesting insight on responsibility by arguing that we are responsible for our silence as well as what we say. We can’t ‘look the other way’ and absolve ourselves of responsibility.
Counterclaim
But it’s hard enough to manage our own lives. We shouldn’t feel responsible if other people make bad choices. It’s better to mind your own business and not walk around trying to solve all of society’s problems.
Essential
Question
How do you know when you should speak out against injustice?
Student Video
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