Elizabeth Cady Stanton – Self-Development


“Self-development is a higher duty than self-sacrifice.”
Elizabeth Cady StantonBig Idea
Students must make decisions in life about how to treat themselves and others. There is a tension here in deciding whose needs should assume greater importance. Sometimes the selfish instinct takes over, other people are shut out and there is a laser-like focus on individual needs. Other times the selfless attitude leads the way. Making wise and balanced decisions about when to serve the self and other people is an important component to living a good life.
Claim
According to early women’s rights activist Elizabeth Cady Stanton, taking care of yourself is more important than taking care of others.
Counterclaim
Taking care of others should be more important than taking care of ourselves.
Essential
Question
When is the right time to put your own needs above others?