This semester, students at St Mary’s College have been participating in the College Ethics Club, developing their critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills while exploring some of the most challenging ethical issues facing society today.
The program culminated in two student teams representing the College in the international Ethics Olympiad competition. Competing against schools from across Australia and overseas, students were required to analyse and discuss complex ethical case studies in a formal collaborative setting.
Throughout the semester, students researched a range of ethical theories and perspectives, learning how philosophers and thinkers approach difficult moral questions. They then applied these ideas to eight different ethical cases, developing arguments, questioning assumptions and considering multiple viewpoints.
Some of the cases explored highly relevant modern issues, including whether it is ethical to consume lab-grown meat and food products, and whether streaming services should profit from true crime documentaries. Other cases challenged students to think about technology, responsibility, justice and human rights.
Rather than simply debating to “win,” the Ethics Olympiad encourages students to listen carefully, build on the ideas of others and respectfully engage with differing perspectives. Students demonstrated impressive maturity, thoughtful reasoning and confidence throughout the competition process.
The College congratulates all students involved in Ethics Club this semester for their commitment, curiosity and willingness to tackle difficult conversations with respect and open-mindedness.
