Lessons in Dungeons and Dragons

During my study this past week, my son hosted six young adults in his weekly Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) campaign. Although this gathering happens often, this time, I found myself more invested in their session than in the past. D&D and critical theory from the Frankfurt School may seem like unlikely companions. Still, as I listened to their interactions, I could make the case that the game has underlying social, cultural, and power dynamics. 

My son, the dungeon master, guided the six players through an imaginary world where each one was free to shape their journey through the choices of their characters. As I observed their interactions, I could see reflections of the power dynamics that exist in the real world. During my continued silent observation of this D&D session, I was surprised by the number of instances that mirrored or critiqued various aspects of social and political inequality. The distribution of resources within the game reminded me of the disparities that exist in society today. 

For example, the characters' access to magic symbolizes the privilege and exclusivity often associated with certain forms of knowledge and ability. The portrayal of institutions within the game offered an interesting parallel to the flaws and injustices prevalent in today's societal structures. I gained a new appreciation for the lessons my son is unknowingly absorbing through his immersive role-play game. I had no idea that D&D offered him a unique opportunity to explore societal issues that, as a parent, I cannot replicate.

Within the walls of his D&D world, he navigates moral dilemmas, confronts prejudices, and deals with critical choices. It may seem simplistic, but he is learning to use critical thinking to empathize with and understand diverse perspectives and think beyond his immediate surroundings. This experience was a reminder that learning can manifest itself in unexpected and unconventional ways.

Comments

  1. JessieJanuary 27, 2024 at 11:00 PM

    Dungeons and Dragons is a great way to explore the different schools of thought! D&D provides an opportunity to test out social situations and learn more about yourself in a safe space. I like the idea of a bunch of the men from the schools gathering around and doing a session. One thing that I think is a bit off on your post is that I think you meant the Birmingham School instead of the Frankfurt School since they were the ones who talked more about critical theory, but the Frankfurt School could apply in other ways.

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