English Inspired by TED Lesson #3 - How to Make Hard Choices | Ruth Chang | TED

This TED talk is very useful when you have to make difficult choices; whether they are big or small... a choice of any size can be hard! What do you do when you cannot figure out which choice is better than another? Do you take the safe road? What if there is no "better" choice, what if there is no "best option?" We'll find out what philosopher Ruth Chang has to say about this in a moment!

A. Warm-Up

1. What difficult choices have you had to make in your life?

2. Did you find there was a "best option?"

3. How did you choose?

B. Vocabulary

1. momentous

2. alternatives

3. agonize

4. misconception

5. value

6. on a par

7. normative

8. rational

9. wholeheartedly

10. distinctive

C. Viewing

After you have answered these questions and taken a look at the vocabulary and looked up any unfamiliar words, have a look at Ruth Chang's video above. Take notes on interesting points, new words, and questions you may have as you watch.

D. Your Thoughts

1. Has this lecture changed anything about the way you view hard life choices? Why or why not?

2. What will you think about the next time you face a difficult decision?

3. What would life be like if there was always a "right choice" or a "best option?"

E. Vocabulary Review

1. It is a common _______________ that all choices have a "best option."

2. To do something _______________ is to do it with all of yourself, to be completely and sincerely devoted to it.

3. _______________ is used to describe something very important, even life-changing.

4. If something is _______________, it stands out, it is different from the others in some way.

5. To _______________ over a decision is to spend a lot of time suffering over your choice.

F. Wrap-Up

As always, I hope this lesson leaves you with something to think about as you go about the rest of your week. Please post any questions or comments you have below and join the discussion! See you all soon!

#philosophy #choices #value #life #TED