Introduction
Jared from Subway, once the face of the popular sandwich chain, has become a controversial figure to be included in any educational curriculum. However, it is important for students to understand the importance of ethics, accountability, and critical thinking in society. This article will guide you on how to approach this topic with your students.
Background on Jared from Subway
Jared Fogle was an American spokesperson for the Subway restaurant chain from 2000 to 2015. He became famous after losing over 200 pounds by incorporating healthy options from Subway into his daily diet. Due to his success story, Subway turned him into their spokesperson, and he quickly became a household name. However, in 2015, Fogle was found guilty of child pornography charges and sexual misconduct with minors. He was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.
Discussing Ethics
1. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Begin the discussion by introducing the concept of CSR. Explain that businesses have a responsibility towards society and the environment in which they operate. Highlight how companies should ensure that their marketing campaigns reflect ethical behavior.
2. The role of morals and values: While discussing Jared’s actions as the face of Subway, emphasize how personal morals and values play a crucial role in decision-making processes. Encourage your students to share their thoughts on what they believe constitutes “right” or “wrong.”
3. Influence of advertising: Discuss with students the power of advertising and how companies carefully select celebrities or spokespersons who portray attributes that align with their brand image. Encourage them to critically analyze advertisements they come across daily.
Accountability
1. Personal accountability: Talk about how Fogle’s actions had severe repercussions not only for himself but also for those around him, such as the victims involved and even Subway as a brand. Stress that individuals are responsible for their actions and choices in life.
2. Corporate accountability: Explain that while Fogle’s actions were criminal, it is essential to consider the part that Subway played in ensuring its representative was upholding ethical standards. Encourage your students to discuss what measures Subway could have taken to avoid this scandal.
Critical Thinking and Media Literacy
1. Analyzing information: Teach students the importance of questioning and analyzing information they receive from various sources, especially from advertisements, social media, and news reports. Encourage them to be critical thinkers, always seeking the truth behind messages they consume daily.
2. Developing empathy: Encourage your students to think about the impact of a public figure’s actions on society, the victims involved, and even their families. By understanding empathy, students will be better equipped to navigate moral quandaries in their lives.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Jared from Subway can be a sensitive topic but one that is crucial for examining ethics, accountability, and media literacy. Through discussions and analysis, students can not only learn from Fogle’s story but also develop a stronger moral compass and critical thinking skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
