Paternalism

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/paternalism

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the conceptual framework?Actions limiting liberty/autonomy intended to promote an individual's own good
2. What is the philosophical origin?Debated by thinkers like John Stuart Mill, distinguishing between children and adults
3. Why do grown‑ups use paternalism?Adults use paternalism to keep people safe, like seatbelt laws or vaccination rules. They think it helps prevent bad outcomes and keeps society healthier.
4. How does paternalism affect kids?Kids are often protected by paternalistic rules because they’re seen as not fully mature. This can help them learn safe habits, but it also means they have less freedom to decide for themselves.

Paternalism: The practice of limiting a person's liberty or autonomy with the stated intention of promoting their own good.
Autonomy: The capacity of an individual to make their own informed, free, and uncoerced decisions about their life.
Liberty: The freedom of individuals to act, speak, or think as they want without external constraint or interference.
Self-determination: The right of individuals to govern themselves and make choices about their own lives and futures.