A dilemma story (also dilemma tale) is an African story-form intended to provoke discussion. They are used as a form of both entertainment and instruction. Unlike many other story forms, which culminate in a firm conclusion, dilemma stories are open ended, and meant to spark conversation and debate. According to Alta Jablow, "certain of the stories serve as devices for teaching ethics and attitudes in personal relationships. How should friends act toward each other? What is the greatest act of filial piety? What constitutes cleverness? Though the questions may not always be explicit in the tale, the discussions leading up to a solution will point up such basic values as these."