Refer to Voices of Wisdom, 9th Edition, Gary Kessler, Thompson/Wadsworth.

1. Socrates (as we know him through Plato and class lecture) and Confucius have a discussion about the condition of their respective societies. Have each character discuss what he thinks are the most important things that should be done to make his society more just or harmonious, and what would make it better able to deal with its problems and divisions. Make sure each speaker has a chance to be specific about what methods, values, practices and ideas should be encouraged, and why his society is in need of change.

2. An empiricist foundationalist and a pluralist have a discussion about the most rational way to deal with problems associated with the pandemic. Let each speaker explain how he would determine what a rational approach is, and have each speaker agree or disagree and critique the other. Your speakers do not have to solve the problems of the pandemic. That is simply a context for them to discuss their respective approaches to rationality. Be sure your characters state into which major branch of philosophy their conversation fits.

3. Socrates (as we have described his views), Plato and Confucius have a conversation about the nature of selfhood. Each answers the question of whether we should think of the young drug-addicted Joan and the retired teacher and grandmother Joan as the same person (you may have your characters discuss Ruth as well as, or instead of, Joan). Allow your speakers to use some of the vocabulary we learned in speaking about selfhood and identity, and base their contributions upon what you know of their views about the nature of self or personhood.