Simulate a Medical Ethics Debate
Introduction:
Scientific discoveries like penicillin raise important ethical questions. In this discussion-based activity, students will explore dilemmas surrounding antibiotic access, overuse, and medical equity by participating in a classroom debate.
What You Will Need:
- Debate prompt cards
- Role-play descriptions (scientist, doctor, patient, policymaker)
- Whiteboard or paper for notes
- Research materials
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Divide the class into small groups representing different stakeholders in the medical system.
- Assign roles: scientists, doctors, patients from various countries, pharmaceutical companies, and government leaders.
- Present debate prompts, such as: 'Should penicillin be free for all?', 'Who decides which countries get new antibiotics first?', or 'Should animals receive human-use antibiotics?'
- Give students time to research their perspectives and prepare short arguments.
- Hold a structured classroom debate, followed by a discussion or vote on each issue.
What to Look For:
- Did students stay in character and represent their viewpoints accurately?
- Were arguments supported by facts or logic?
- Did the debate encourage respectful listening and thoughtful questioning?
Fun Fact:
During World War II, the U.S. and U.K. raced to produce penicillin and even used mold strains from cantaloupes to increase yields!
Safety Tip:
Remind students to debate respectfully and that this is an exercise in empathy and understanding—not winning or losing.
Journaling Prompt:
Reflect on your role in the debate. What did you learn about how medicine, ethics, and access are connected?