In this illustrated series narrated by Sir Stephen Fry, a community of animals living in a fictional savannah try to navigate some tricky philosophical questions.
Led by King Lawrence the Lion and his trusted advisor, Maple the Meerkat, each video follows the animals as they navigate challenges around issues such as; whether it's ever acceptable to lie, if it's okay to always say whatever you like even if it causes offence, and do adults always know best.
Sir Stephen Fry acts as the engaging narrator, and provides philosophical context at the end of each story before opening the question up for further discussion in the classroom.
This series can be linked to teaching PSHE, English and Religious Studies at KS2 level in England and Northern Ireland, Progression Step 2 in Wales and 2nd Level in Scotland.
Sir Stephen Fry is the patron of SAPERE, the Society for Philosophical Enquiry. SAPERE have provided this free resource to help teachers further develop some of the themes explored in the Fantastic Philosophy videos. In Autumn 2025, they will become known as Thoughtful.
Is it ever right to lie? video
Sir Stephen Fry narrates an illustrated story set in a fictional savannah asking whether it's ever right to lie?
Should everybody be allowed to say what they like? video
Sir Stephen Fry narrates an illustrated story asking whether everybody should be allowed to say what they like? Even if it means causing offence or upset.
Do adults always know best? video
Sir Stephen Fry narrates an illustrated story asking do adults always know best? Or are there times when children can even teach adults a thing or two?
Where next?
What Makes Me, Me? And Other Interesting Questions. collection
Fun and engaging short films exploring fundamental philosophical concepts through everyday questions that children ask, and adults often struggle to answer.
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