Star Wars Contest
The winner of the contest is Katelyn Clark. Here is her entry:
What Star Wars has taught me about ethics:
I think that one of the most important lessons on ethics that can be found in the Star Wars movies is that anger doesn't always lead to the dark side. It depends on what you do with the anger. Anakin had chosen to get revenge on those who had killed those he loved, which led him to the dark side. Luke had chosen to help others after the people he loved had been killed.
This entry was chosen because it taps into a less obvious moral lesson from the movies while also echoing the wisdom of Aristotle, who said feelings are integral to being good as long as we express them how and when we should. To quote the ancient Greek philosopher himself: “Anybody can get angry - that is easy … but to do this to the right person, to the right extent, at the right time, with the right motive, and in the right way – that is not for everyone; nor is it easy” (The Nicomachean Ethics, II.9). While revenge is “human,” according to Aristotle, it indicates a moral defect grounded in excessive anger.
Here are some more of the entries. To see all entries, please visit our Facebook page.
Anonymous post
Star Wars taught me the value of being different and taking risks while working towards a worthy goal. Social outcasts can teach you a lot, it turns out sometimes they are the most thoughtful, knowledgeable, and wise people you will ever meet. Villains may have complicated back stories worth learning, you could be surprised how much you share in common. Your dreams might go against social norms and the expectations of those who raised you, but you need to chart your own path. If you trust your instincts believe in your abilities, you might just be surprised at your accomplishments.
Tony Myles
Growing up (apparently) is about character.
I first gravitated toward Luke Skywalker. His youthful optimism toward the universe inspired my own.
That, and he had a sweet light saber.
Time passed.
Suddenly, I emulated Han Solo.
He stared people down.
He wooed women.
He'd boast about his ship, “She’s got it where it counts, kid.”
I mimicked his swagger at younger kids around me. You should’ve seen the “Lukes” on their faces.
Time passed.
Apparently, I've become Yoda.
The things I say are a bit backward at times, but people pay attention.
Growing up (apparently) is about getting into character.
Anonymous post
The Star Wars saga has always been more than a collection of films or a global pop culture juggernaut; the locations are far-off worlds and the characters are exotic, but the challenges faced are the same that we each encounter right here at home. How do we confront evil? How do we conquer our deepest fears? I have always found strength from Luke’s final fight against Darth Vader and the Emperor in the Return of the Jedi. In the heat of the battle, Luke shuts off his lightsaber. He ceases to fight evil with violence, but chooses simply to stand for good.