Susan B. Anthony – Freedom
“Independence is happiness.”
Susan B. Anthony
Big Idea
Freedom and happiness are two concepts that most students believe have undeniable value. Look no further than the Declaration of Independence and its famous phrase “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” to see evidence of this value. Yet, on a personal level, it is an open question whether independence actually leads to happiness in all cases for all people. Sometimes, surrendering independence might be necessary to gain fulfillment. Students have the life-long challenge of deciding when pursuing independence–or giving it up– is the best path to follow to get what they want.
Claim
According to American women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony, the more independence you have, the happier you are. Controlling your own destiny is the surest path towards fulfillment.
Counterclaim
Giving up your independence and trusting others will lead to happiness. Surrendering control and letting others make choices for you provide the conditions for your own fulfillment.
Essential
Question
Can you be happy without independence?
Student Video
Into the Wild – Freedom
When teaching the novel Into the Wild by John Krakauer, I can focus on the theme of the pursuit of happiness and introduce the Susan B. Anthony conversation and the concept of Freedom at the beginning ...
“The Story of an Hour” – Freedom
Freedom means different things to different people, and some throughout history have had to struggle more to get it than others. After reading Kate Chopin’s classic “The Story of an Hour&# ...
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