Imagine two decks of cards, each representing different versions of you. One reflects your advantages, the other your hurdles. Through a simulated game, you draw cards in categories like education, healthcare, and discrimination, seeing how external factors shape your paths. Reflecting on these "stacked decks" sparks critical thinking about creating a fairer game for all.
Playing the Game:
1. Create your decks: As instructed, create two decks of cards, one representing yourself and one representing your alter-self. Consider your own background, experiences, and perspectives when constructing the decks for each persona. Make sure the cards accurately reflect the advantages and disadvantages each self might face in the different categories (environment, education, nutrition, parenting, college, and discrimination).
2. Exchange cards: Following the game instructions, exchange cards within each category for both hands according to the prompts. This will simulate the impact of external factors on each self's trajectory.
3. Calculate salaries and expenses: Based on the cards drawn and your understanding of the characters, estimate the potential salary for each self and their likely job category. Then, calculate how much money each self would have left after mandatory living expenses (housing, food, transportation, etc.).
4. Evaluate the impact: Analyze the differences between the two hands and consider how these factors (advantages, disadvantages) have shaped each self's path. Think about how these disparities might impact their children's future opportunities.
5. Reflect on the ethics: Discuss the ethical implications of "stacked decks" in real life. How does this game highlight the disadvantages faced by certain groups due to circumstances beyond their control? What can be done to create a more equitable playing field for everyone?
Sharing your thoughts:
Once you have completed the game and analyzed the results, write a comprehensive reflection addressing the following points:
* **Describe the cards in each deck and explain how they represent your self and alter-self.**
* **Discuss the calculated salaries, job categories, and remaining income for each self. How do these factors differ and what might explain the disparity?**
* **Analyze the potential impact of these differences on the lives of each self and their children. Consider factors like access to education, healthcare, and opportunities.**
* **Reflect on the ethical implications of "stacked decks" in real life. What examples can you think of where certain groups are disadvantaged due to factors beyond their control?**
* **Suggest possible solutions or actions that could help create a more equitable playing field for everyone.**
Remember to use proper grammar, sentence structure, and spelling. Cite any references you use in your reflection.
**Additional resources:**
* The original exercise instructions you mentioned
* Articles or studies on social mobility, inequality, and discrimination
* Personal stories or experiences that illustrate the impact of "stacked decks"