Booker T. Washington – Happiness
“Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.”
Booker T. Washington
Big Idea
Happiness is something all students want. The challenge is always how to get it. Students often get mixed messages here; on the one hand, they are told to focus on themselves and figure out a path towards happiness that benefits them directly. On the other hand, they are told that happiness can only be achieved by helping others. The choices they make in the quest for happiness shape their characters in profound ways.
Claim
According to American political leader and author Booker T. Washington, giving to other people makes you happy. Being selfish leads to unhappiness.
Counterclaim
Focusing on yourself and your own needs will bring you happiness.
Essential
Question
How do you know when giving to others will bring us happiness?
Student Video
“Altruism: Why We Risk Our Own Well-Being to Help Others” – Happiness
Emerging research about the psychology behind altruism offer an interesting lens through which students can examine the happiness attained throughout selflessness. I would start this lesson by discuss ...
A Christmas Carol – Happiness
I love to use Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to teach students about the happiness derived from helping and serving others. This is a great unit to teach around the holidays, if culturally a ...
