FrontPage The Task Background The Process Evaluation Conclusion

Individual Rights and Public Safety

A WebQuest for 6th Grade (Social Studies)

Designed by

Harvey Wright

hwwright@seattleschools.org

Introduction

“Should the City of Seattle regulate ‘Fighting Breeds’ of dogs?  Why or why not?”

“How does this issue affect individual rights or the common good?”

“What is more important, individual rights or the common good?”

    There have been many incidents lately involving attacks of dogs on people in Seattle. Many of these dog attacks have involved pitbulls, a breed that many people associate with being unpredictable and violent. As a result of these attacks, many people have started calling for a ban on dog breeds that are a threat to public safety. For others, such a ban undermines their individual right to own the pet of their choice.