Ethical Issues

Use of the Time-turner device

Hermione was doing something that could have dire consequences just for her own advantage. Why was she allowed to use it and nobody else?

Was Hermione right to use the time-turner?

What could have gone wrong if she misused the device?

What were the implications of her using the device?

What are the ethical issues of using such a device?

What could we do if we could turn back time?

Ron: [when Harry and Hermione reappear] But, you were just there! I... I was talking to you there! And now you're there!
Hermione: What's he talking about Harry?
Harry: I dunno. Honestly Ron, how can people be in two places at once?

Harry's Invisibility Cloak and the Mischief-Makers' Map

Harry uses these mainly for mischief and when he wants to do things he's not been banned from doing (visiting the village etc.)

Does his using the items for good deeds make up for the other uses?

What would we do if we could become invisible? If we could know where everybody else - especially those in authority - were, and could avoid them?

George Weasley: You can know where everyone is...
Fred Weasley: anytime
George Weasley: anywhere
Fred Weasley: every minute
George Weasley: of every day
Fred Weasley: And when you're done, just say...
George and Fred: Mischief managed! Otherwise anyone can read it!

Harry: [about the Marauder's Map] Professor, I don't think it always works. Earlier... it showed someone in the castle... someone I know to be dead.
Professor Lupin: Who?
Harry: Peter Pettigrew.
Professor Lupin: That's not possible.

 

Magic vs. Science

People in Harry Potter's world often routinely use magic for things that would be considered unethical or condemned in our world.

Magic is used where we would use science, but more adventurously and freely.

Does technology change our lives like magic could?