January 2025 – Gp Lah!

To what extent has science and technology changed the face of crime?

Science and technology have significantly transformed crime, facilitating new methods for both committing and combating criminal activities. However, their impact varies, presenting both advancements and challenges.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science and technology have significantly transformed crime and also redefined the landscape of crime.
Background: Overview of technological advancements and their dual role in crime.
Thesis Statement: Science and technology have revolutionised crime, creating new opportunities and sophisticated countermeasures.

II. Supporting View 1: Enhanced Cybercrime Techniques

Topic Sentence: Science and technology have significantly transformed crime as evidenced by the exponential rise of sophisticated cybercrime.
Example 1: Ransomware attack on the University of Maastricht (2019) caused significant disruptions and financial losses. (Attackers encrypted critical data and demanded a ransom.)
Example 2: Nigeria’s online fraud schemes (2020) targeted individuals and businesses worldwide, causing billions in losses. (Utilisation of advanced phishing and social engineering tactics.)
Example 3: Singapore’s data breach (2021) exposed personal data of 1.5 million healthcare patients. (Highly sophisticated hacking methods exploited system vulnerabilities.)
Analysis: Advances in technology have made cybercrime more prevalent and complex.

III. Supporting View 2: Improved Surveillance and Forensic Techniques

Topic Sentence: Technology has enhanced crime detection and prevention.
Example 1: United Kingdom’s use of CCTV (2019) significantly reduced urban crime rates. (Extensive camera networks enabled real-time monitoring and quick response.)
Example 2: DNA analysis advancements in Japan (2020) led to solving cold cases. (Improved forensic techniques identified previously unknown suspects.)
Example 3: Germany’s predictive policing software (2021) helped in preventing crimes before they occurred. (Analysis of crime data patterns predicted and prevented criminal activities.)
Analysis: Technological tools have increased the effectiveness of law enforcement.

IV. Supporting View 3: Global Collaboration Against Crime

Topic Sentence: Science and technology have significantly transformed crime-busting, particularly how international cooperation in combating crime has become seamless
Example 1: Europol’s cybercrime centre (2020) facilitated cross-border investigations and arrests. (Joint operations dismantled major cybercrime networks.)
Example 2: Interpol’s use of facial recognition (2019) aided in identifying international fugitives. (Coordinated efforts improved tracking and apprehension.)
Example 3: India’s digital evidence sharing (2021) with other nations streamlined international criminal investigations. (Shared databases and technologies enhanced global cooperation.)
Analysis: Technology promotes international collaboration, improving global crime-fighting efforts.

V. Opposing View 1: Privacy and Civil Liberties Concerns

Topic Sentence: Technological surveillance raises privacy issues even if it means catching the bad guys.
Example 1: China’s extensive use of surveillance cameras (2020) sparked global privacy debates. (Government monitoring raised concerns about civil liberties.)
Example 2: Russia’s internet censorship (2019) limited freedom of expression. (Government control over digital communication stifled dissent.)
Example 3: France’s data retention laws (2021) faced backlash for invading personal privacy. (Mandatory data storage raised privacy and security concerns.)
Analysis: Technological surveillance often conflicts with individual privacy and civil liberties.

VI. Opposing View 2: Technology Dependency and Vulnerability

Topic Sentence: Over-reliance on technology can be problematic.
Example 1: India’s Aadhaar data breach (2019) compromised millions of citizens’ personal information. (Reliance on digital ID systems exposed vulnerabilities.)
Example 2: Brazil’s power grid cyberattack (2020) demonstrated critical infrastructure weaknesses. (Attackers exploited technological dependencies to cause widespread disruption.)
Example 3: Mexico’s police database hack (2021) exposed sensitive law enforcement information. (Dependence on digital systems made security breaches more impactful.)
Analysis: Heavy reliance on technology can lead to significant vulnerabilities.

VII. Opposing View 3: Adaptation of Criminals to New Technologies

Topic Sentence: Criminals quickly adapt to technological advancements.
Example 1: Dark web marketplaces in the Netherlands (2019) facilitated illegal trade, evading law enforcement. (Anonymity tools made tracking and prosecuting offenders difficult.)
Example 2: Cryptocurrency scams in South Korea (2020) exploited new financial technologies for fraud. (Rapid adoption of digital currencies led to new types of financial crimes.)
Example 3: Advanced phishing attacks in Canada (2021) targeted remote workers during the pandemic. (Criminals adapted to the increased use of digital communication tools.)
Analysis: Criminals’ adaptability to technology presents ongoing challenges for law enforcement.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Science and technology have dramatically reshaped crime, creating new challenges and opportunities.
Summary of Key Points: Enhanced cybercrime techniques, improved law enforcement, global cooperation, privacy issues, technology dependency, and criminal adaptation.
Final Thought: Balancing technological advancement with ethical considerations is crucial for future crime prevention.

Nota benne:

Crime encompasses counterfeit luxury goods and even pharmaceutical drugs. Human trafficking, money laundering and scams have brought about new waves of crime never seen before. Doxxing and blackmail through suggestive pictures online or via social messaging have made the public prosecutor even busier. The above essay requires a wider perspective.

Nature has much to teach man. Discuss.

Nature provides profound lessons for humanity, fostering inspiration, sustainability, and well-being. However, modern society often overlooks or misinterprets these teachings. Nature is important.

I. Introduction

Hook: As nature the ultimate teacher for humanity, nature provides profound lessons for mankind.
Background: The enduring influence of nature on human development.
Thesis Statement: Nature offers invaluable insights, yet society’s relationship with it can be complex.

II. Supporting View 1: Inspiration and Creativity

Topic Sentence: Nature provides profound lessons as it sparks creativity and innovation.
Example 1: Japanese architect Kengo Kuma (2020) designs buildings blending seamlessly with natural environments, promoting harmony and sustainability.
Example 2: Finnish schools (2019) integrate outdoor classrooms, leading to enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills in students.
Example 3: Kenyan artist Cyrus Kabiru (2021) creates eco-art from recycled materials, inspired by the natural landscape and environmental conservation.
Analysis: Nature’s beauty and complexity inspire artistic and architectural innovation, promoting creativity.

III. Supporting View 2: Lessons in Sustainability

Topic Sentence: Nature provides profound lessons as it teaches essential principles of sustainability.
Example 1: Sweden’s recycling program (2019) achieves near-zero waste, inspired by natural ecosystems’ efficiency.
Example 2: Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (2020) prioritises environmental conservation alongside economic growth, influenced by nature’s balance.
Example 3: Costa Rica’s reforestation efforts (2021) successfully restore biodiversity, following natural regeneration principles.
Analysis: Nature’s cyclical processes offer blueprints for sustainable practices.

IV. Supporting View 3: Health and Well-being

Topic Sentence: Nature enhances mental and physical health.
Example 1: Japan’s forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) practice (2020) reduces stress and improves mental health through immersion in nature.
Example 2: Dutch “healing gardens” in hospitals (2019) significantly improve patient recovery rates and mental well-being.
Example 3: South Korean urban green spaces (2021) combat urban stress and enhance public health.
Analysis: Natural environments contribute to better health outcomes and well-being.

V. Opposing View 1: Misinterpretation and Romanticism

Topic Sentence: Society often misinterprets nature’s lessons.
Example 1: Overexploitation of natural resources in Brazil (2020) leads to deforestation and biodiversity loss, ignoring sustainable practices.
Example 2: Misuse of natural symbols in Australian tourism (2019) commodifies indigenous cultures, distorting nature’s cultural significance.
Example 3: Misguided conservation efforts in China (2021) disrupt local ecosystems, showing a lack of understanding of natural dynamics.
Analysis: Misinterpreting nature’s lessons can lead to environmental and cultural harm.

VI. Opposing View 2: Technological and Urban Challenges

Topic Sentence: Urbanisation and technology complicate learning from nature.
Example 1: Rapid urbanisation in India (2020) leads to reduced green spaces and disconnection from natural environments.
Example 2: Singapore’s high-tech urban farming (2019) contrasts traditional agricultural methods, though it aims for sustainability.
Example 3: South Africa’s digital education initiatives (2021) overshadow outdoor learning, despite their success in urban settings.
Analysis: Modern urban and technological developments can limit direct engagement with nature.

VII. Opposing View 3: Ethical and Practical Dilemmas

Topic Sentence: Practical and ethical dilemmas arise in applying nature’s lessons.
Example 1: Wildlife conservation in Kenya (2020) faces ethical challenges in balancing human and animal needs.
Example 2: Norway’s oil industry (2019) struggles with sustainable practices despite natural resource wealth.
Example 3: Agricultural practices in Mexico (2021) seek sustainable solutions amidst economic pressures and traditional methods.
Analysis: Applying nature’s lessons involves navigating complex ethical and practical challenges.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Nature offers profound lessons, yet modern society must interpret and apply them thoughtfully.
Summary of Key Points: Inspiration, sustainability, health benefits, misinterpretation, urban challenges, and ethical dilemmas.
Final Thought: Humanity must balance nature’s wisdom with modern realities for a sustainable future.

Reading References:

Berkes, Fikret. Sacred Ecology. Routledge, 2018.
Louv, Richard. The Nature Principle: Reconnecting with Life in a Virtual Age. Algonquin Books, 2019.
Roszak, Theodore. The Voice of the Earth: An Exploration of Ecopsychology. Phanes Press, 2019.

Is it better for a dysfunctional family to stay together or to break up?

A dysfunctional family staying together can offer stability and chances for improvement. But separation may provide a healthier environment. This complex issue depends on cultural factors, but the decision to stay together or break-up should be based on physical and mental safety.

I. Introduction

Hook: A dysfunctional family can still be united.
Background: Prevalence of dysfunctional families and societal views.
Thesis Statement: The decision to stay together or break up in a dysfunctional family depends on multiple factors.

II. Supporting View 1: Stability and Security

Topic Sentence: Staying together can provide stability for children.
Example 1: Studies in the UK (2018) show children perform better academically in stable homes.
Example 2: Japan (2019) shows lower anxiety levels in children with both parents.
Example 3: Indian family structures (2020) indicate strong support networks within extended families.
Analysis: Stability can offer emotional and financial security, benefitting children’s development.

III. Supporting View 2: Opportunity for Healing and Growth

Topic Sentence: Staying together allows families to work through issues.
Example 1: Australian study (2021) on family therapy improving relationships.
Example 2: South African programme (2020) helps families manage conflicts constructively.
Example 3: Brazilian initiatives (2019) support family units through social services.
Analysis: Professional help can address underlying issues and promote healing.

IV. Supporting View 3: Social and Cultural Expectations

Topic Sentence: Some cultures value family unity over individual happiness.
Example 1: Chinese societal norms (2019) emphasise family cohesion.
Example 2: Mexican traditions (2021) focus on extended family support.
Example 3: Middle Eastern countries (2020) where family unity is paramount.
Analysis: Cultural expectations can influence the decision to stay together despite dysfunction.

V. Opposing View 1: Psychological and Emotional Harm

Topic Sentence: Dysfunctional families can cause lasting psychological harm.
Example 1: UK study (2020) links dysfunctional homes to increased mental health issues.
Example 2: Canadian research (2019) shows higher rates of depression in children from dysfunctional families.
Example 3: Australian findings (2021) on anxiety disorders stemming from family conflict.
Analysis: Continuous exposure to dysfunction can severely impact mental health.

VI. Opposing View 2: Better Outcomes Post-Separation

Topic Sentence: Separation can lead to healthier environments for children.
Example 1: Swedish study (2021) indicates improved wellbeing post-divorce.
Example 2: French research (2019) shows better academic performance after separation.
Example 3: Norwegian findings (2020) on reduced conflict in single-parent homes.
Analysis: Separation can remove children from toxic environments, promoting better outcomes.

VII. Opposing View 3: Individual Happiness and Personal Growth

Topic Sentence: Personal wellbeing is essential for overall family health.
Example 1: Italian study (2020) links parental happiness to effective parenting post-divorce.
Example 2: Spanish research (2019) on adults achieving personal growth after leaving dysfunctional marriages.
Example 3: German findings (2021) on improved quality of life post-separation.
Analysis: Individual fulfilment can lead to better parenting and healthier family dynamics.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: The decision to stay together or break up in a dysfunctional family is complex and multifaceted.
Summary of Key Points: Stability, healing, and cultural norms versus psychological harm, better post-separation outcomes, and individual happiness.
Final Thought: Each family must carefully consider their unique circumstances and seek professional guidance.

Reading References:

Bowen, Murray. Family Therapy in Clinical Practice. Rowman & Littlefield, 2019.
Minuchin, Salvador. Families and Family Therapy. Harvard University Press, 2020.

Romance novels are only for the foolish. Comment.

Romance novels provide meaningful value. While some may dismiss romance novels as frivolous, they provide emotional growth, and societal insight, challenging the notion that they are only for the foolish.

I. Introduction

Hook: Romance novels often face ridicule, but romance novels provide a greater utility than is actually apparent. Romance novels provide meaningful value.
Background: Popularity and criticism of romance literature.
Thesis Statement: Romance novels offer valuable experiences beyond mere foolish entertainment.

II. Supporting View 1: Emotional Growth and Empathy

Topic Sentence: Romance novels provide meaningful value by enhancing emotional intelligence and empathy.
Example 1: The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion (2013) explores Asperger’s Syndrome.
Example 2: Me Before You by Jojo Moyes (2012) discusses euthanasia and disability.
Example 3: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman (2017) addresses loneliness and mental health.
Analysis: These novels highlight complex emotional and psychological issues.

III. Supporting View 2: Insight into Social Issues

Topic Sentence: Romance novels provide meaningful value by addressing important social themes.
Example 1: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (2017) focuses on racial injustice.
Example 2: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (2019) explores LGBTQ+ relationships.
Example 3: An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (2018) deals with wrongful imprisonment.
Analysis: These stories engage with and educate on societal challenges.

IV. Supporting View 3: Escapism and Mental Health Benefits

Topic Sentence: Romance novels provide necessary escapism and mental health benefits.
Example 1: Increase in romance novel sales during COVID-19 lockdowns (2020-present).
Example 2: Beach Read by Emily Henry (2020) offers a light-hearted escape.
Example 3: The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary (2019) brings comfort and joy.
Analysis: Escapism through romance novels helps readers cope with real-life stress.

V. Opposing View 1: Perceived Lack of Literary Merit

Topic Sentence: Critics argue romance novels lack literary depth.
Example 1: Critics’ dismissal of Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James (2011).
Example 2: Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer (2005-2008) often mocked.
Example 3: After series by Anna Todd (2014-present) criticised for simplistic writing.
Analysis: These works are often seen as poorly written and lacking substance.

VI. Opposing View 2: Reinforcement of Stereotypes

Topic Sentence: Romance novels can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Example 1: Mills & Boon novels often criticised for outdated gender roles.
Example 2: Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire (2011) portrays toxic relationships.
Example 3: The Selection series by Kiera Cass (2012-present) reinforces traditional beauty standards.
Analysis: These novels can propagate negative and unrealistic societal expectations.

VII. Opposing View 3: Unrealistic Expectations

Topic Sentence: Romance novels can create unrealistic relationship expectations.
Example 1: The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks (1996) idealises love.
Example 2: The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory (2018) romanticises spontaneous romance.
Example 3: Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon (1991-present) sets unrealistic standards for love and adventure.
Analysis: These narratives can lead to disappointment in real-life relationships.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Romance novels, while sometimes criticised, offer significant benefits.
Summary of Key Points: Emotional growth, societal insights, and mental health benefits versus lack of literary merit, stereotypes, and unrealistic expectations.
Final Thought: Romance novels should be valued for their positive impact on readers.

Reading References:

Regis, Pamela. A Natural History of the Romance Novel. University of Pennsylvania Press, 2007.
Radway, Janice A. Reading the Romance: Women, Patriarchy, and Popular Literature. University of North Carolina Press, 2009.
Betts, Hannah. “The Mental Health Benefits of Escapist Fiction.” The Guardian, 2020.

Do you think that the world is in a worse condition despite increased international cooperation?

Despite increased international cooperation, the world remains plagued by various issues, indicating that such efforts have not significantly improved global conditions.

I. Introduction

Hook: Increased international cooperation promised a better world, but reality tells a different story.
Background: Rise of international cooperation through organisations like the UN and WHO.
Thesis Statement: Increased international cooperation has not necessarily improved the world’s condition.

II. Supporting View 1: Persisting Global Conflicts

Topic Sentence: Increased international cooperation has not resolved major global conflicts.
Example 1: Ongoing Syrian civil war (2011-present).
Example 2: Continued instability in Afghanistan (2014-present).
Example 3: Yemen’s humanitarian crisis (2014-present).
Analysis: These examples highlight the failure of international efforts to end conflicts.

III. Supporting View 2: Environmental Degradation

Topic Sentence: Environmental issues persist despite increased international cooperation.
Example 1: Limited success of the Paris Agreement (2015-present).
Example 2: Amazon rainforest deforestation in Brazil (2010s-present).
Example 3: Ocean pollution and marine life threats (2010s-present).
Analysis: These instances show the inadequacy of international cooperation in addressing environmental crises.

IV. Supporting View 3: Economic Inequality

Topic Sentence: Economic inequality remains a major issue worldwide.
Example 1: Worsening poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa (2010s-present).
Example 2: Economic disparity in India despite growth (2010s-present).
Example 3: Wealth inequality in Latin America (2010s-present).
Analysis: These cases illustrate that international cooperation has not effectively reduced economic disparities.

V. Opposing View 1: Health Improvements

Topic Sentence: International cooperation has improved global health.
Example 1: Eradication of polio in Africa (2020).
Example 2: Global response to COVID-19 vaccine distribution (2020-present).
Example 3: Reduction of malaria cases in Southeast Asia (2010s-present).
Analysis: These examples demonstrate significant health advancements due to international collaboration.

VI. Opposing View 2: Advancements in Human Rights

Topic Sentence: Increased international cooperation has advanced human rights.
Example 1: Legalisation of same-sex marriage in multiple countries (2010s-present).
Example 2: Global condemnation of human rights abuses in Myanmar (2017-present).
Example 3: Increased focus on gender equality in Scandinavian countries (2010s-present).
Analysis: These cases indicate the positive impact of international cooperation on human rights.

VII. Opposing View 3: Economic Growth and Development

Topic Sentence: Increased international cooperation has spurred economic growth.
Example 1: Economic growth in Southeast Asian nations (2010s-present).
Example 2: African Union’s efforts to boost trade within Africa (2013-present).
Example 3: EU’s economic support to Eastern European countries (2010s-present).
Analysis: These instances show how international cooperation has contributed to economic development.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Despite increased international cooperation, the world’s condition remains challenged.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balancing continued cooperation with more effective strategies is crucial for global improvement.

Reading References:

Stiglitz, Joseph E. Globalization and Its Discontents Revisited. W.W. Norton & Company, 2017.
Diamond, Jared. Upheaval: Turning Points for Nations in Crisis. Little, Brown and Company, 2019.