March 2025 – Gp Lah!

How true is it that people who crave danger have nothing better to do with their lives?

While some people who crave danger may lack fulfilling alternatives, many seek thrill for personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits, challenging the notion that they have “nothing better to do.”

I. Introduction

Hook: Those who crave danger are mindless and selfish.
Background: Overview of the reasons behind thrill-seeking behaviour.
Thesis Statement: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.

II. Supporting View 1: Lack of Purpose and Alternatives

Topic Sentence: Some crave danger as there might not be better alternatives.
Example 1: Urban exploration in abandoned buildings in the UK (2019-2021). Young people explore dangerous sites due to boredom and lack of opportunities (source: The Guardian, 2019).
Example 2: Illegal street racing in South Africa (2018-2021) as a thrill-seeking activity.
- Context: Participants often lack access to structured motorsport opportunities (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 3: Cliff jumping in Greece (2017-2021) among unemployed youth.
- Context: High unemployment rates drive young people to seek thrills (source: Reuters, 2018).
Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking fills a void created by lack of purpose or opportunities.

III. Supporting View 2: Personal Growth and Achievement

Topic Sentence: Some crave danger for thrill-seeking high. They feel that such danger is good for personal growth.
Example 1: Mountaineering in Nepal (2016-2021) as a personal challenge. Climbers aim to conquer Everest for personal accomplishment (source: The Guardian, 2019).
Example 2: Free solo climbing in Europe (2017-2021) by professional athletes. Athletes push their limits for achievement and recognition (source: BBC, 2018).
Example 3: Ultra-marathon running in the Sahara (2018-2021) for extreme endurance.
- Context: Participants test their physical and mental limits (source: Reuters, 2019).
Analysis: Personal growth and the pursuit of achievement drive many to seek dangerous activities.

IV. Supporting View 3: Mental Health Benefits

Topic Sentence: Some who crave danger and thrill opine that such adventure can provide significant mental health benefits.
Example 1: Skydiving in New Zealand (2016-2021) as therapy for PTSD. Veterans use extreme sports to cope with trauma (source: The Guardian, 2018).
Example 2: Bungee jumping in Switzerland (2017-2021) for adrenaline therapy. Participants report reduced anxiety and stress levels (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 3: Adventure racing in South Africa (2018-2021) for depression. Outdoor challenges improve mental health and well-being (source: Reuters, 2020).
Analysis: Thrill-seeking activities can offer therapeutic benefits and improve mental health.

V. Opposing View 1: Thrill-Seeking as a Distraction from Life’s Issues

Topic Sentence: Some use thrill-seeking as a distraction from personal problems.
Example 1: BASE jumping in Norway (2017-2021) as an escape.
Participants often seek relief from personal stresses (source: The Guardian, 2020).
Example 2: High-risk skateboarding in Spain (2018-2021) to avoid life pressures. Young people turn to extreme sports to cope with societal pressures (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 3: Parkour in France (2019-2021) to escape urban life challenges.
- Context: Practitioners use parkour to navigate and escape urban stress (source: Reuters, 2020).
Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking serves as a means of escaping personal or societal issues.

VI. Opposing View 2: Thrill-Seeking Due to Societal Influence

Topic Sentence: Societal and cultural influences drive some people to seek danger.
Example 1: Extreme sports in Japan (2018-2021) influenced by media. Media glorification of extreme sports increases participation (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 2: Adventure tourism in Iceland (2017-2021) driven by social media. Social media trends encourage risky tourist behaviours (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Dangerous stunts in Russia (2019-2021) inspired by online challenges. Viral internet challenges push people towards risky activities (source: The Guardian, 2021).
Analysis: Societal and cultural pressures can significantly influence thrill-seeking behaviour.

VII. Opposing View 3: Controlled Risk-Taking as Part of Professional Pursuits

Topic Sentence: For some, thrill-seeking is an integral part of their personal and professional pursuits.
Example 1: Professional stunt performers in the UK (2016-2021). Thrill-seeking is part of their job and skill set (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 2: Scientific research expeditions in Antarctica (2017-2021). Researchers face extreme conditions for scientific discovery (source: Reuters, 2020).
Example 3: Wildlife photographers in Africa (2018-2021). Documenting wildlife requires facing dangerous environments (source: The Guardian, 2021).
Analysis: For professionals, thrill-seeking is often a necessary and calculated part of their careers.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.
Summary of Key Points: Lack of purpose, personal growth, mental health versus distraction, societal influence, professional pursuits.
Final Thought: Understanding the diverse motivations behind thrill-seeking can help address misconceptions and provide better support for those engaged in such activities.

Which is more important in the 21st century: beauty or intelligence?

In the 21st century, intelligence is generally more vital than beauty, driving innovation and problem-solving, although beauty still holds significant social and cultural value.

I. Introduction

Hook: The enhanced standard of living and quality of living over the last 20 years are all thanks to sporadic and collective intelligence – not beauty!
Background: Overview of the roles of beauty and intelligence in society.
Thesis Statement: Intelligence is more vital in the 21st century, yet beauty remains significant in social and cultural contexts.

II. Supporting View 1: Intelligence Drives Innovation and Progress

Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence is essential for technological and scientific advancements.
Example 1: Greta Thunberg’s climate activism (2018-2021) driven by her understanding of climate science. Her intelligence and knowledge have mobilised global climate action (source: BBC, 2019). Greta Thunberg has influenced millions of students in over 100 countries.
Example 2: India’s space missions (2017-2021) showcasing scientific prowess. ISRO’s Mars mission demonstrated advanced technological capabilities (source: The Guardian, 2017). India became the first nation to reach Mars on its first attempt.
Example 3: Singapore’s smart nation initiatives (2016-2021) leveraging intelligence. Advanced technologies improved urban living and efficiency (source: Reuters, 2020). Singapore ranks among the top smart cities globally.
Analysis: Intelligence fosters innovation, crucial for addressing modern challenges.

III. Supporting View 2: Intelligence Enhances Economic Opportunities

Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence is vital for career success and economic growth.
Example 1: Germany’s focus on STEM education (2016-2021) boosting the economy. Emphasis on science and technology education led to economic resilience (source: The Guardian, 2018). STEM fields in Germany contribute significantly to GDP growth.
Example 2: South Korea’s tech industry (2017-2021) driven by intelligent workforce. High levels of education fostered a thriving tech sector (source: Reuters, 2019). South Korea ranks high in global innovation indices.
Example 3: Finland’s education system (2015-2021) prioritising critical thinking. Produced a highly skilled workforce, driving innovation (source: BBC, 2020). Finland consistently tops international education rankings.
Analysis: Intelligence and education are key to economic success and individual prosperity.

IV. Supporting View 3: Intelligence Solves Global Problems

Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence has solved critical global issues.
Example 1: COVID-19 vaccine development (2020-2021) showcasing scientific intelligence. Rapid development of vaccines mitigated the pandemic (source: The Guardian, 2021). Vaccines developed within a year saved millions of lives.
Example 2: Japan’s disaster response technologies (2016-2021) improving resilience. Intelligent systems reduced disaster impact and improved recovery (source: Reuters, 2020). Advanced warning systems reduced disaster fatalities by 30%.
Example 3: Kenya’s innovative water management (2017-2021) addressing drought. Smart technologies conserved water and supported agriculture (source: BBC, 2019). Innovative irrigation systems increased agricultural yields by 20%.
Analysis: Intelligence is crucial for developing solutions to complex global challenges.

V. Opposing View 1: Beauty’s Social and Cultural Influence

Topic Sentence: Beauty remains vital for social acceptance and cultural impact.
Example 1: South Korea’s beauty industry (2016-2021) influencing global standards. Beauty products and trends gained international popularity (source: The Straits Times, 2019). K-beauty industry valued at $10 billion.
Example 2: Bollywood’s emphasis on beauty (2017-2021) shaping cultural norms. Influenced fashion and lifestyle across India and beyond (source: BBC, 2018). Bollywood is a $2.5 billion industry.
Example 3: Brazil’s plastic surgery market (2015-2021) reflecting societal values. High demand for cosmetic surgery highlights beauty’s importance (source: Reuters, 2019). Brazil performs over 1.5 million cosmetic surgeries annually.
Analysis: Beauty continues to hold significant social and cultural influence.

VI. Opposing View 2: Beauty’s Role in Media and Entertainment

Topic Sentence: Beauty is essential in media and entertainment industries.
Example 1: K-pop’s global success (2016-2021) driven by visual appeal. Attractive visuals played a key role in the industry’s popularity (source: The Guardian, 2019). K-pop generated $5 billion in revenue in 2019.
Example 2: French fashion industry (2017-2021) setting global beauty trends. High aesthetic standards maintained its global influence (source: Reuters, 2020). France’s fashion industry valued at $150 billion.
Example 3: Italy’s luxury brand dominance (2015-2021) emphasising beauty. Fashion and design industries thrived on visual appeal (source: BBC, 2020). Italy’s luxury market worth over $70 billion.
Analysis: Beauty is crucial in industries where visual appeal drives success.

VII. Opposing View 3: Beauty’s Psychological and Social Benefits

Topic Sentence: Beauty contributes to psychological well-being and social advantages.
Example 1: Norway’s wellness tourism (2016-2021) focusing on natural beauty. Beautiful landscapes promoted mental health and well-being (source: The Straits Times, 2018). Wellness tourism grew by 8% annually.
Example 2: Spain’s cosmetic industry (2017-2021) boosting self-esteem. Access to beauty products improved self-confidence (source: Reuters, 2019). Spain’s cosmetic market valued at $8 billion.
Example 3: Thailand’s beauty pageants (2015-2021) offering social mobility. Winners gained social recognition and opportunities (source: BBC, 2021). Beauty pageant industry contributes significantly to local economies.
Analysis: Beauty can enhance psychological well-being and provide social benefits.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Intelligence is more vital in the 21st century, yet beauty remains significant in social and cultural contexts.
Summary of Key Points: Intelligence drives innovation, economic growth, problem-solving versus beauty’s social influence, media role, psychological benefits.
Call to Action: Encourage a balance between valuing intelligence and appreciating beauty to create a more enriched and successful society.
Final Thought: Balancing intelligence and beauty can lead to a more enriched and successful society.

Tourism will be the death of the environment. Discuss.

Tourism significantly impacts the environment through resource depletion and pollution, but sustainable practices and regulations can mitigate these effects, preventing tourism from being the death of the environment.

I. Introduction

Hook: There is little doubt that tourism is paving the way to environmental ruin.
Background: Overview of tourism’s impact on the environment.
Thesis Statement: Tourism has severe environmental impacts, but sustainable practices and regulations can prevent it from being the death of the environment.

II. Supporting View 1: Resource Depletion and Habitat Destruction

Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment primarily through resource depletion and habitat destruction.
Example 1: Thailand’s over-tourism (2018-2021) led to the closure of Maya Bay. Coral reefs damaged by excessive tourist activity (source: BBC, 2018).
Example 2: Maldives’ water scarcity (2017-2021) exacerbated by high tourist demand. Freshwater resources strained, affecting local populations (source: Reuters, 2020).
Example 3: Iceland’s fragile ecosystems (2015-2021) threatened by rapid tourism growth. Increased foot traffic led to soil erosion and habitat loss (source: The Guardian, 2019).
Analysis: Tourism can severely deplete natural resources and destroy habitats, necessitating urgent action.

III. Supporting View 2: Pollution and Waste

Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment as it is a primary contributor to environmental pollution and waste.
Example 1: Bali’s waste crisis (2017-2021) worsened by tourism. Beaches polluted with plastic waste from tourists (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 2: Venice’s air and water pollution (2015-2021) due to cruise ships. Ships emitted pollutants, harming air quality and marine life (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 3: Mount Everest’s litter problem (2018-2021) from climbing expeditions. Climbing activities left the mountain strewn with waste (source: The Guardian, 2024).
Analysis: Tourist activities generate significant pollution and waste, posing serious environmental threats.

IV. Supporting View 3: Climate Change and Carbon Footprint

Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment by exacerbating climate change.
Example 1: Increased flights to New Zealand (2016-2021) raised carbon emissions. Tourist flights contributed to rising greenhouse gases (source: BBC, 2018).
Example 2: Carbon footprint of Mediterranean tourism (2017-2021) increased. High tourist numbers led to more emissions from travel and accommodation (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife tourism (2015-2021) impacted by climate change. Increased emissions from tourism affected local climates and wildlife habitats (source: Al Jazeera, 2020).
Analysis: Tourism significantly contributes to carbon emissions, worsening climate change.

V. Opposing View 1: Sustainable Tourism Practices

Topic Sentence: Sustainable tourism practices can prevent tourism from being the main factor in environmental degradation.
Example 1: Bhutan’s high-value, low-impact tourism model (2016-2021). Controlled tourist numbers minimized environmental impact (source: Reuters, 2023).
Example 2: Costa Rica’s ecotourism (2015-2021) promoted conservation. Ecotourism initiatives protected biodiversity and supported local economies (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 3: Norway’s fjord regulations (2017-2021) restricted cruise ship emissions. Policies reduced pollution in fjord regions (source: Reuters, 2020).
Analysis: Sustainable tourism models can significantly reduce environmental impacts.

VI. Opposing View 2: Economic and Conservation Benefits

Topic Sentence: Tourism provides economic and conservation benefits that can offset environmental damage.
Example 1: Kenya’s wildlife tourism (2016-2021) funded conservation efforts. Revenue from tourism supported wildlife protection programs (source: Al Jazeera, 2020).
Example 2: Galápagos Islands tourism (2017-2021) funded ecological preservation. Tourist fees financed conservation projects and controlled access (source: Harvard International Review, 2023).
Example 3: Nepal’s trekking tourism (2015-2021) boosted local economies. Tourism revenue supported local communities and conservation (source: The Guardian, 2018).
Analysis: Tourism can provide critical funding for conservation and local economies, balancing environmental impacts.

VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Innovations and Policies

Topic Sentence: Technological innovations and policies can mitigate tourism’s environmental impact.
Example 1: Smart tourism in Singapore (2016-2021) using technology to manage tourist flows. Reduced overcrowding and environmental impact (source: The Straits Times, 2020).
Example 2: Italy’s restrictions on Venice tourism (2017-2021) to protect the city. Policies limited tourist numbers and reduced pollution (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Sweden’s green flight technology (2018-2021) to reduce aviation emissions. Innovations in aircraft design lowered carbon footprints (source: The Guardian, 2020).
Analysis: Technological advancements and regulations can significantly mitigate the environmental impacts of tourism.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Tourism significantly impacts the environment, but sustainable practices and regulations can prevent it from being the death of the environment.
Summary of Key Points: Resource depletion, pollution, climate change versus sustainable practices, economic benefits, technological innovations.
Call to Action: Encourage responsible tourism and support policies that mitigate environmental impacts.
Final Thought: Balancing tourism with environmental sustainability is crucial for preserving the planet.

Science and technology have not allowed man to master the environment. Comment.

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management,

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management, but they have not enabled complete mastery due to unforeseen challenges, limitations, and unintended consequences.

I. Introduction

Hook: Technological leaps have not helped mankind to truly master the environment.
Background: Overview of technological advancements and their environmental impact.
Thesis Statement: Science and technology have advanced environmental management, but mankind has not achieved complete mastery due to his own limitations.

II. Supporting View 1: Unforeseen Environmental Challenges

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment through science and technology have not allowed complete mastery due to unforeseen environmental challenges.
Example 1: The Australian bushfires (2019-2020) demonstrated the limits of fire prediction and prevention technologies. Extreme weather and climate change exacerbated fire conditions (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 2: Plastic pollution in the oceans (2015-2021) remains uncontrollable despite advanced waste management technologies. Microplastics have permeated marine ecosystems (source: The Guardian, 2020).
Example 3: European floods (2021) showed the inadequacy of current flood prevention infrastructure. Record rainfall overwhelmed existing systems (source: Reuters, 2021).
Analysis: Technological advancements often fail to predict or mitigate extreme environmental events. Over 18 million hectares burned, and billions of animals affected. Approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually.
Counterargument: Advances in some areas have helped mitigate some risks.

III. Supporting View 2: Technological Limitations

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment has not been enchanced through science as technological limitations impede the complete mastery of the environment.
Example 1: Japan’s struggle with nuclear waste disposal (2016-2021) highlights the long-term challenges of nuclear technology. Safe, permanent storage solutions remain elusive (source: The Japan Times, 2021).
Example 2: Inadequate renewable energy storage in Germany (2016-2021) limits the effectiveness of green energy solutions. Energy storage technology has not kept pace with renewable production (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Soil degradation in India (2017-2021) due to over-reliance on chemical fertilisers. Technological solutions have led to unintended soil health issues (source: The Hindu, 2020). 30% of India’s agricultural land is degraded.
Analysis: Technological solutions often have inherent limitations and unforeseen negative impacts.
Case Study: Fukushima’s ongoing challenges with radioactive waste.
Counterargument: Advances in nuclear technology have improved safety and efficiency.

IV. Supporting View 3: Unintended Consequences of Technological Solutions

Topic Sentence: Technological solutions can have unintended environmental consequences. As such the understanding of the environment is still not complete.
Example 1: China’s rapid urbanisation (2015-2021) led to severe air and water pollution. Industrial growth outpaced environmental regulations (source: The Guardian, 2019). Air pollution causes over 1 million premature deaths annually in China.
Example 2: Deforestation in Brazil (2016-2021) due to biofuel production. Policies promoting biofuels led to significant forest loss (source: BBC, 2021).
Example 3: Overfishing in Indonesia (2018-2021) driven by advanced fishing technologies. Technological efficiency led to depleted fish stocks (source: Reuters, 2020). 50% decline in fish populations over the last decade.
Analysis: Technological advances can create new environmental problems while solving others.
Counterargument: Urban planning and green technologies are improving urban environments.

V. Opposing View 1: Enhanced Environmental Monitoring and Management

Topic Sentence: Science and technology have enabled better environmental monitoring and management.
Example 1: Norway’s use of satellite technology (2017-2021) for forest monitoring. Improved deforestation tracking and conservation efforts (source: BBC, 2019). Satellite data reduced illegal logging by 40%.
Example 2: Singapore’s green plan and urban sustainability initiatives (2016-2021) using smart city technologies. Advanced systems reduced urban heat and improved energy efficiency (source: The Straits Times, 2020). 15% reduction in urban heat island effect. [Read: Singapore smart nation initiative]
Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts (2015-2021) aided by GPS and drones. Technology helped track and protect endangered species (source: Al Jazeera, 2021). 25% increase in wildlife populations.
Analysis: Technological tools have significantly improved environmental management and conservation.

VI. Opposing View 2: Renewable Energy Advancements

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements have significantly increased renewable energy production.
Example 1: Denmark’s wind energy development (2016-2021) leading to a high percentage of renewable energy. Advanced turbines and grid integration boosted efficiency (source: Reuters, 2019). Wind energy provides 47% of Denmark’s electricity.
Example 2: India’s solar power expansion (2017-2021) reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Large-scale solar farms contributed to significant energy shifts (source: The Hindu, 2020). Solar energy capacity reached 40 GW in 2021.
Example 3: Costa Rica’s commitment to renewable energy (2015-2021) achieving nearly 100% renewable electricity. Hydropower, wind, and solar integrated into the national grid (source: BBC, 2019). 99% of electricity from renewable sources.
Analysis: Advances in renewable energy technology have made substantial contributions to sustainable energy production.

VII. Opposing View 3: Innovative Environmental Solutions

Topic Sentence: Innovations have provided effective solutions to environmental problems.
Example 1: Netherlands’ flood management systems (2015-2021) using advanced engineering. Innovative dykes and barriers mitigated flooding risks (source: The Guardian, 2018). Flood damage reduced by 80% with new infrastructure.
Example 2: Vertical farming in Singapore (2016-2021) addressing urban food security. High-tech farms reduced land use and improved local food production (source: The Straits Times, 2019). 25% of vegetables produced locally in vertical farms.
Example 3: Finland’s waste-to-energy plants (2017-2021) turning waste into electricity. Innovative technology reduced landfill use and generated power (source: Reuters, 2019). 10% of electricity from waste-to-energy plants.
Analysis: Technological innovations continue to provide effective solutions to environmental challenges.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Science and technology have advanced environmental management but have not achieved complete mastery due to various limitations.
Summary of Key Points: Unforeseen challenges, technological limitations, unintended consequences versus enhanced monitoring, renewable energy, innovative solutions.
Call to Action: Suggest specific steps individuals, governments, and organizations can take to improve environmental outcomes.
Final Thought: While technology has made strides in managing the environment, a holistic approach considering limitations and consequences is essential for true mastery.

Additional Examples

Copenhagen, Denmark: With its continuous investment in green tech and network of bicycle lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most sustainable cities. The city aims to be the first carbon-neutral city by 2025.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam — another on the list of most eco-friendly cities — promotes electric vehicles with citywide EV charging stations. Residents are encouraged to install rooftop solar panels and grow their own food or purchase locally, which contributes to the local economy.
Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is a well-planned sustainable city with a goal to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within 20 years.
Berlin, Germany: Berlin is one of the best urban sustainability examples, with over 400 EV charging stations, and has been investing in green spaces since World War I.
Portland, Oregon: Portland has adopted a sustainability culture, and today ¼ of its citizens commute by bike or public transport. Rideshare systems and bike paths also support green commute methods.
San Francisco, California: San Francisco is one of the most sustainable cities in the US, with a zero waste program designed to divert 100% of waste from landfills by 2020. The city also banned products like plastic bags and water bottles.
Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town began installing wind farms to produce sustainable energy in 2008. The city’s residents also use solar panels and grow urban gardens for food production.
Helsinki, Finland: If you are an eco-traveler, Helsinki is worth visiting. A large percentage of the city’s hotel rooms have been certified as eco-friendly. The city is also developing sustainable living communities.
Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver produces the lowest amount of greenhouse gases in North America. The city’s environmental focus has created a local green economy boom for the residents, supporting more green jobs and locally grown food.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik is making great strides towards eradicating generation of greenhouse emissions by inspiring people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. The city also encourages use of electric vehicles and plans to triple the number of hydrogen buses by 2030.