The Gospel Of Wealth

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Debate: The Validity of Carnegie’s Argument in Contemporary Society”

In this activity, students will debate whether or not Carnegie’s argument is still valid in contemporary society.

Although philanthropy is a concept that contemporary society is familiar with, Carnegie’s suggestion to distribute excess wealth to charitable causes was a radical notion in the late 19th century. For this Activity, you will argue for or against the following point: Carnegie’s essay is still an applicable argument in contemporary society.

• First, you will be assigned which point that you will support (either “for” or “against”).
• Second, you will work with your group to form your argument cohesively, while also reflecting on the themes Duty and Moral Responsibility, The American Dream, and Capitalism and Inequality (please see your teacher for guidance on this).
• Third, you will practice your arguments with your group in a rehearsal. Be sure to consider any possible rebuttals that the other group may create.
• Fourth, participate in the debate with the opposing group.
• Finally, reflect on the success of the debate in a group discussion, discussing the strong and weak points in both groups.