September 2024 — Gp Lah!

Compre Practice 3

This passage is about how social pressure determines social behaviour.

Compre Practice 2

This comprehension practice discusses the idea of euthanasia and if it devalues human life.

The authors raise arguments for and against euthanasia. Download.

Education must encompass more than critical thinking and originality. Comment.

Technology is an effective social leveller. How far do you agree?

Examine the claim that patriotism is of little value in modern times.

While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

I. Introduction

Hook: Patriotism is often debated in today’s globalised world.
Background: Overview of patriotism’s role historically and in contemporary society.
Thesis Statement: While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

II. Supporting View 1: Globalisation Reduces Patriotism

Topic Sentence: Globalisation diminishes the value of patriotism.
Example 1: In 2016, the Brexit debate highlighted how globalisation challenges national loyalty in the UK.
Example 2: In 2020, protests in Hong Kong emphasised a struggle between local identity and global influences.
Example 3: In 2018, the Catalonia independence movement showed the conflict between regionalism and national loyalty in Spain.
Analysis: These examples show how globalisation and regional identities challenge traditional patriotism.

III. Supporting View 2: Modern Challenges Outweigh Patriotism

Topic Sentence: Modern challenges make patriotism seem less relevant.
Example 1: In 2021, climate change protests in Germany prioritised global environmental issues over national pride.
Example 2: In 2019, the refugee crisis in Europe raised questions about national borders versus humanitarian concerns.
Example 3: In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required global cooperation, reducing focus on national interests.
Analysis: These instances illustrate how pressing global issues can overshadow patriotic sentiments.

IV. Opposing View 1: Patriotism Promotes National Unity

Topic Sentence: Patriotism fosters national unity and social cohesion.
Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s response to COVID-19 saw a surge in national unity and support for the NHS.
Example 2: In 2018, the French rallied together during the World Cup, boosting national pride and unity.
Example 3: In 2020, Japan’s Olympics preparations highlighted patriotism and collective effort.
Analysis: These examples show how patriotism can bring people together, fostering unity and pride.

V. Opposing View 2: Patriotism Maintains National Identity

Topic Sentence: Patriotism helps maintain and celebrate national identity.
Example 1: In 2017, India’s celebration of Independence Day highlighted its cultural heritage and unity.
Example 2: In 2020, Russia’s Victory Day parade reinforced national pride and historical remembrance.
Example 3: In 2019, Australia Day celebrated national achievements and identity despite controversies.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate how patriotism sustains national identity and cultural values.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While globalisation and modern challenges may reduce patriotism’s perceived value, it remains crucial for national unity and identity.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance global cooperation with national pride to navigate modern complexities.

Compre Practice 1

David Held describes global politics while Robert O’Keohane presents the difficulties in achieving a global society.

Comprehension practice on global politics and the difficulties in achieving a global society. Download.

Is it true that advancements in science have forced us to rethink our values?

Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science transforms our understanding of the world.
Background: Brief overview of recent scientific advancements and their societal impacts.
Thesis Statement: Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

II. Supporting View 1: Ethical Implications

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements challenge our ethical values.
Example 1: In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui’s gene-editing of babies raised global ethical concerns.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s debates on AI and facial recognition technology highlighted privacy concerns.
Example 3: In 2019, the CRISPR gene-editing advancements in Europe sparked ethical debates.
Analysis: These examples show how science forces us to reconsider ethical boundaries and responsibilities.

III. Supporting View 2: Privacy Concerns

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements raise significant privacy issues.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s Aarogya Setu app for COVID-19 contact tracing raised data privacy concerns.
Example 2: In 2021, China’s extensive surveillance systems led to debates on individual privacy.
Example 3: In 2019, the EU’s GDPR implementation highlighted the need for data protection.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how advancements in science and technology compel us to rethink privacy values.

IV. Opposing View 1: Reinforcement of Existing Values

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements often reinforce our existing values.
Example 1: In 2019, Japan’s use of robots to care for the elderly reinforced values of compassion and care.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s ethical guidelines on AI ensured the technology aligned with societal values.
Example 3: In 2021, Sweden’s renewable energy projects reaffirmed environmental sustainability values.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how science can support and enhance our existing values.

V. Opposing View 2: Encouraging Adaptation

Topic Sentence: Science encourages the adaptation of values rather than a complete rethink.
Example 1: In 2021, South Korea’s digital education advancements adapted values of learning and accessibility.
Example 2: In 2019, Singapore’s smart city initiatives adapted to values of efficiency and safety.
Example 3: In 2020, the EU’s climate policies adapted to values of environmental stewardship and responsibility.
Analysis: These instances show how advancements in science prompt value adaptations rather than a fundamental shift.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Scientific advancements force us to rethink ethical and human rights, but they also reinforce and adapt existing values.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance innovation with ethical considerations to navigate the evolving landscape.

Is the importance of censorship overrated?

While censorship can protect society from harmful content, its importance is often overrated as it can also suppress freedom of expression and hinder societal progress.

Outline:
I. Introduction
Hook: Censorship is a controversial topic in today's digital age.
Background: Brief overview of censorship's role and its impact on society.
Thesis Statement: While censorship can protect society from harmful content, its importance is often overrated as it can also suppress freedom of expression and hinder societal progress.

II. Supporting View 1: Protection from Harmful Content
Topic Sentence: Censorship protects society from harmful and dangerous content.
Example 1: In 2020, the Indian government banned TikTok to prevent harmful and inappropriate content.
Example 2: In 2021, the UK’s Online Safety Bill aimed to protect children from online abuse.
Example 3: In 2018, Australia introduced laws to censor violent video content.
Analysis: These examples show how censorship can safeguard the public from harmful materials.

III. Supporting View 2: Maintaining Social Order
Topic Sentence: Censorship helps maintain social order and prevent unrest.
Example 1: In 2019, Sri Lanka temporarily blocked social media to prevent violence after bombings.
Example 2: In 2021, Uganda restricted social media during elections to maintain peace.
Example 3: In 2020, Iran censored internet access during protests to control dissent.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how censorship can help maintain stability and public order.

IV. Opposing View 1: Suppression of Freedom of Expression
Topic Sentence: Censorship suppresses freedom of expression and democratic values.
Example 1: In 2020, Thailand's censorship of pro-democracy protests limited free speech.
Example 2: In 2021, Russia restricted access to opposition websites, stifling political dissent.
Example 3: In 2019, China's censorship of Hong Kong protests curtailed citizens' voices.
Analysis: These instances highlight how censorship undermines fundamental democratic principles.

V. Opposing View 2: Hindrance to Societal Progress
Topic Sentence: Censorship hinders societal progress and innovation.
Example 1: In 2021, Turkey's restrictions on social media stifled political and social discourse.
Example 2: In 2020, Egypt's censorship of media restricted investigative journalism and transparency.
Example 3: In 2018, Saudi Arabia's control over artistic expression limited cultural development.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how censorship can impede progress and innovation in society.

V. Opposing View 2: Hindrance to Societal Progress
Topic Sentence: Censorship hinders societal progress and innovation.
Example 1: In 2021, Turkey's restrictions on social media stifled political and social discourse.
Example 2: In 2020, Egypt's censorship of media restricted investigative journalism and transparency.
Example 3: In 2018, Saudi Arabia's control over artistic expression limited cultural development.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how censorship can impede progress and innovation in society.

Read about:
1. The Digital Silk Road “has been just as much about promoting China’s tech industry and developing digital infrastructure as it has about reshaping standards and internet governance norms away from a free, open, and interoperable internet in favour of a fragmented digital ecosystem, built on censorship and surveillance, where China and other networked autocracies can prosper."

2. An order by the Singaporean authorities to remove a cigarette from a Chinatown mural has sparked public criticism over censorship and historical revisionism.

3. In 2023, CPJ registered 320 imprisoned journalists worldwide. The Erased uses a unique font that links every single one of these 320 journalists to a censored word, and erases these words from participating (news) websites around the world. This symbolises the importance of free and independent journalism, and the danger of censorship: it takes away our right to know.

Is there a justifiable need for wildlife?

Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value. However, some argue it conflicts with human needs and development.

I. Introduction

Hook: Wildlife is a crucial part of Earth’s biodiversity.
Background: Brief overview of the roles wildlife plays in nature and society.
Thesis Statement: Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value. However, some argue it conflicts with human needs and development.

II. Supporting View 1: Ecological Balance

Topic Sentence: Wildlife maintains ecological balance and supports ecosystems.
Example 1: In Kenya, elephants help shape the landscape and promote biodiversity.
Example 2: In India, tigers control herbivore populations, preserving forest health.
Example 3: In Australia, bees pollinate crops, vital for food production.
Analysis: These examples show how wildlife is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

III. Supporting View 2: Scientific Research

Topic Sentence: Wildlife is invaluable for scientific research and medical advancements.
Example 1: In Costa Rica, studying frogs leads to medical breakthroughs.
Example 2: In Madagascar, lemurs provide insights into evolutionary biology.
Example 3: In Tanzania, chimpanzee research aids understanding of human behaviour.
Analysis: These cases illustrate the importance of wildlife for scientific progress and health benefits.

IV. Opposing View 1: Conflict with Human Needs

Topic Sentence: Wildlife sometimes conflicts with human needs and safety.
Example 1: In India, human-tiger conflicts result in fatalities and livestock loss.
Example 2: In South Africa, elephants damage crops, impacting farmers’ livelihoods.
Example 3: In Australia, sharks pose a risk to swimmers and surfers.
Analysis: These examples highlight the challenges of coexisting with wildlife.

V. Opposing View 2: Hindrance to Development

Topic Sentence: Wildlife conservation can hinder economic development and infrastructure projects.
Example 1: In Brazil, protecting the Amazon rainforest limits agricultural expansion.
Example 2: In China, preserving pandas restricts urban development in certain areas.
Example 3: In Kenya, wildlife reserves sometimes limit land available for housing.
Analysis: These instances show how wildlife conservation can conflict with development goals.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value, but it can conflict with human needs and development.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Strive for a balanced approach that values both wildlife conservation and human progress.