Father Knows Best Season 2 Episode 35 The Ten Dollar Question
- TV-G
- May 16, 1956
- 25 min
-
7.3 (37)
Title: Father Knows Best - Season 2 Episode 35: The Ten Dollar Question
Episode Description: In this heartwarming and humorous episode of "Father Knows Best," titled "The Ten Dollar Question," the Anderson family finds themselves facing a conundrum that puts their honesty and values to the test.
The episode opens with Jim Anderson (played by Robert Young), a loving and wise father, engaging in a jovial conversation with his wife, Margaret (portrayed by Jane Wyatt). Their three children, Betty (Elinor Donahue), Bud (Billy Gray), and Kathy (Lauren Chapin), join in the lively discussions that often revolve around the challenges and victories of their everyday lives.
As the Anderson family gathers around the dining table for dinner, a knock on the door interrupts their meal. The unexpected visitor turns out to be Norman Wheeler (Anthony Sydes), a young boy from Bud's school. Norman, who hails from a less fortunate background, comes seeking financial assistance for a school project fund. With his empathetic nature, Bud convinces his father to lend him the requested ten dollars.
When Bud brings Norman back to collect the money, Jim surprises everyone by giving him a twenty-dollar bill instead. However, the dilemma arises later when Bud discovers that he had received an incorrect amount as change, highlighting the possible presence of a dishonest character at the student store. Bud is now torn between keeping the money or returning it to the school authorities.
Caught between his desire to use the extra money for personal enjoyment and his conscience urging him to do the right thing, Bud wrestles with this moral dilemma. Sensing his son's internal struggle, Jim provides supportive guidance by asking Bud a series of thought-provoking questions, encouraging him to explore the consequences of his actions from different angles.
Meanwhile, Betty, the eldest daughter, offers her brother advice and reflects on her own experiences with ethical dilemmas. She shares stories from her school life and emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with one's core values, reminding Bud that making the right choices may not always be the easiest path but is ultimately rewarding.
As Bud continues to grapple with his decision, the Anderson family engages in heartfelt family conversations that reflect a variety of perspectives on morality, ethics, and honesty. Kathy, the youngest member of the family, observes the discussions with curiosity and contributes her innocent yet insightful viewpoints.
Throughout the episode, Jim's wise and caring nature shines through his interactions with his children. As the patriarch of the Anderson family, he takes every opportunity to impart valuable life lessons and instill genuine values within his children. Margaret, the nurturing and supportive mother, provides a nurturing presence, ensuring a safe space for open dialogue and growth.
"The Ten Dollar Question" is an episode that showcases the enduring love and bonds within the Anderson family. It explores the significance of integrity, the power of empathy, and the moral complexities individuals face when confronted with challenging decisions. Through engaging dialogue and relatable situations, the episode reminds viewers of the importance of staying true to one's principles, even in the face of temptation.
Tune in to "Father Knows Best - Season 2 Episode 35: The Ten Dollar Question" to witness the Anderson family's journey as they navigate ethical quandaries and discover the true value of honesty and integrity in their lives.