Category: Culture

For a long time, we have lamented the loss of childhood because children grow up too quickly. Is this truer today than in the past?

I. Introduction

Hook: “In the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, childhood innocence is increasingly imperiled.”
Background: The rapid pace of societal change impacts childhood significantly.
Thesis Statement: Today’s children face accelerated maturation due to modern societal pressures, making the loss of childhood more acute than in the past.

II. Supporting View 1: Impact of Technology

Topic Sentence: The proliferation of technology accelerates children’s maturation. In some perspectives, this is considered a loss of childhood.
A 2020 UK study found that children spend over six hours daily on digital devices.
BBC: Highlighted concerns about digital overexposure. (https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-child-screen-time-2020)
A 2021 study in Germany showed increased social media usage among preteens, leading to adult-like social interactions.
Deutsche Welle: Emphasised the influence of social media on young minds. (https://www.dw.com/social-media-preteens-2021)
Research in Japan in 2019 indicated that early smartphone use affects cognitive and social development.
The Japan Times: Focused on the adverse effects of early technology use. (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/smartphone-use-children-2019)

Technology exposes children to adult themes prematurely. Therefore, the accelerated maturation due to technology supports the view that children grow up too quickly today.

III. Supporting View 2: Educational Pressures

Topic Sentence: Modern educational pressures contribute to the rapid loss of childhood.
A 2021 Australian study reported increased anxiety among students due to high academic expectations.
ABC News: Highlighted the mental health impact of academic pressure. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/student-anxiety-education-pressure-2021)
Research in Finland in 2019 showed children experiencing stress from early competitive schooling.
Helsingin Sanomat: Emphasised the early onset of academic stress. (https://www.hs.fi/early-education-stress-2019)
A 2020 study in India found that excessive homework burdens children, limiting playtime.
The Hindu: Focused on the homework burden on children. (https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/homework-burden-children-2020)

Educational pressures reduce the time available for play and leisure. Consequently, these pressures force children to adopt adult-like responsibilities prematurely.

IV. Supporting View 3: Societal Expectations

Topic Sentence: Societal expectations push children towards adult roles too soon. This inadvertently leads to loss of childhood.
A 2021 UK report indicated that children face increased expectations to perform well academically and socially.
The Guardian: Discussed the high expectations placed on children. (https://www.theguardian.com/society/child-performance-pressure-2021)
A 2019 French study found that children are encouraged to participate in adult-like activities, such as beauty pageants.
Le Monde: Highlighted the adultification of children’s activities. (https://www.lemonde.fr/beauty-pageants-children-2019)
Research in South Korea in 2020 showed that societal competition drives children to focus on career-building from a young age.
Yonhap News: Emphasised the career pressures on young children. (https://en.yna.co.kr/childhood-competition-career-2020)

Societal expectations erode the innocence and simplicity of childhood. Thus, societal pressures significantly contribute to the loss of childhood in modern times.

V. Opposing View 1: Access to Child-Centric Activities

Topic Sentence: Children today have more access to child-centric activities that preserve childhood.
A 2021 Dutch study found that more playgrounds and parks are available for children’s recreational use.
De Telegraaf: Highlighted the increase in child-friendly spaces. (https://www.telegraaf.nl/playgrounds-parks-children-2021)
A 2020 Canadian report indicated a rise in community-based children’s programmes.
The Globe and Mail: Focused on the growth of community activities for children. (https://www.theglobeandmail.com/child-community-programmes-2020)
Research in Norway in 2019 showed increased government support for sports and arts programmes for children.
Aftenposten: Emphasised government initiatives for children’s activities. (https://www.aftenposten.no/child-sports-arts-programmes-2019)

Access to child-centric activities helps maintain childhood innocence. Therefore, such activities counterbalance the pressures leading to early maturation.

VI. Opposing View 2: Parental Involvement

Topic Sentence: Increased parental involvement helps preserve childhood today.
A 2020 Swedish study found that parents spend more quality time with their children than in previous decades.
Svenska Dagbladet: Highlighted the rise in parental engagement. (https://www.svd.se/parental-involvement-children-2020)
Research in the UK in 2019 showed that modern parents are more aware of the need to protect childhood.
The Times: Focused on parental efforts to safeguard childhood. (https://www.thetimes.co.uk/modern-parenting-2019)
A 2021 study in New Zealand indicated that parents are more involved in their children’s education and leisure activities.
NZ Herald: Emphasised increased parental participation. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/parental-involvement-childhood-2021)

Parental involvement helps mitigate external pressures on children. Thus, engaged parenting can preserve childhood despite societal changes.

VII. Opposing View 3: Cultural Shifts Towards Protecting Childhood

Topic Sentence: Cultural shifts are increasingly focused on protecting childhood.
A 2019 Danish study found that societal attitudes are shifting towards valuing and protecting childhood.
Politiken: Highlighted cultural emphasis on childhood protection. (https://www.politiken.dk/childhood-protection-2019)
Research in 2021 in Italy showed a cultural movement towards less academic pressure and more playtime.
Corriere della Sera: Emphasised cultural changes prioritising childhood. (https://www.corriere.it/childhood-culture-2021)
A 2020 Spanish study indicated growing support for legislation aimed at protecting children’s rights.
El País: Focused on legislative efforts to safeguard childhood. (https://www.elpais.com/childhood-protection-legislation-2020)

Cultural shifts contribute to a renewed emphasis on the importance of childhood. Therefore, cultural changes are working to preserve the essence of childhood in modern society.

VIII. Conclusion

Modern societal pressures indeed accelerate children’s maturation, making the loss of childhood more pronounced today. Technological exposure, educational pressures, societal expectations vs. child-centric activities, parental involvement, cultural shifts. While some factors preserve childhood, the rapid pace of the VUCA world makes it harder to maintain its innocence.

The value of reading is timeless. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: “Pages of prose perpetuate profound perspectives.”
Background: The enduring nature of reading has been debated against the rise of videos, podcasts, and games.
Thesis Statement: Reading remains a timeless activity, providing unique cognitive, emotional, and educational benefits compared to modern media.

II. Supporting View 1: Cognitive Benefits of Reading

Topic Sentence: Value of reading is timeless because reading enhances cognitive functions in ways unmatched by videos, podcasts, or games. A 2020 study in the UK showed improved empathy and theory of mind through regular reading.
BBC: Highlighted how reading fiction enhances cognitive empathy. (https://www.bbc.com/news/reading-empathy-study-2020)
German research in 2021 found that deep reading enhances memory retention and critical thinking.
Deutsche Welle: Emphasised reading’s impact on critical thinking skills. (https://www.dw.com/reading-critical-thinking-skills-2021)
A Finnish study in 2019 showed that reading complex texts improves mental agility.
Helsingin Sanomat: Focused on mental agility through reading. (https://www.hs.fi/reading-mental-agility-2019)

Reading stimulates the brain more profoundly than passive media consumption. Thus, reading’s cognitive benefits solidify its timeless value.

III. Supporting View 2: Emotional and Psychological Benefits

Topic Sentence: Value of reading is timeless because reading provides emotional and psychological benefits that videos, podcasts, and games cannot fully replicate.
A 2021 Australian study linked reading to reduced stress and anxiety levels.
ABC News: Showed reading’s role in lowering stress. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/reading-stress-relief-2021)
Research in Japan in 2020 found that reading enhances emotional resilience.
The Japan Times: Highlighted reading’s impact on emotional health. (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/reading-emotional-resilience-2020)
A 2018 Italian study showed that regular reading improves mental well-being.
La Repubblica: Focused on the mental health benefits of reading. (https://www.repubblica.it/reading-mental-wellbeing-2018)

Reading fosters a deeper emotional connection and psychological resilience.
Therefore, the emotional benefits of reading reinforce its timeless significance.

IV. Supporting View 3: Educational Advantages

Topic Sentence: Value of reading is timeless because reading provides unparalleled educational benefits compared to videos, podcasts, and games.
A 2019 French study found that reading enhances academic performance.
Le Monde: Demonstrated reading’s positive impact on education. (https://www.lemonde.fr/reading-academic-performance-2019)
A Swedish study in 2021 showed that reading promotes better language skills.
Svenska Dagbladet: Highlighted language development through reading. (https://www.svd.se/reading-language-skills-2021)
Research in Canada in 2020 linked reading to higher levels of literacy and comprehension.
The Globe and Mail: Emphasised literacy benefits from reading. (https://www.theglobeandmail.com/reading-literacy-comprehension-2020)

Reading directly contributes to superior educational outcomes. Thus, the educational advantages of reading underscore its timeless value.

V. Opposing View 1: Engaging Nature of Videos and Podcasts

Topic Sentence: Videos and podcasts offer engaging content that appeals to modern audiences.
A 2019 study in the UK found that podcasts enhance auditory learning and engagement.
BBC: Showcased the appeal and engagement of podcasts. (https://www.bbc.com/news/podcasts-auditory-learning-2019)
A 2020 study in Germany showed that videos can improve visual learning skills.
Deutsche Welle: Highlighted visual learning through videos. (https://www.dw.com/videos-visual-learning-2020)
Research in Italy in 2021 found that multimedia content is more engaging for young learners.
La Repubblica: Focused on the engaging nature of multimedia. (https://www.repubblica.it/multimedia-engagement-2021)

The engagement offered by videos and podcasts attracts a broader audience.
However, while engaging, they lack the depth of cognitive benefits provided by reading.

VI. Opposing View 2: Accessibility of Modern Media

Topic Sentence: Modern media like videos and podcasts are more accessible and convenient than reading.
A 2020 Australian study showed the widespread accessibility of educational podcasts.
ABC News: Highlighted the convenience of podcasts. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/podcasts-accessibility-2020)
A Finnish study in 2019 found that videos are more accessible to people with literacy challenges.
Helsingin Sanomat: Emphasised accessibility through videos. (https://www.hs.fi/videos-literacy-accessibility-2019)
Research in Japan in 2021 showed that modern media is more convenient for busy lifestyles.
The Japan Times: Focused on the convenience of modern media. (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/convenience-modern-media-2021)

The accessibility and convenience of modern media cannot be denied. Despite this, reading offers unique benefits that modern media cannot fully replicate.

VII. Opposing View 3: Interactive Nature of Games

Topic Sentence: Games offer an interactive experience that traditional reading cannot provide.
A 2018 Swedish study found that educational games improve problem-solving skills.
Svenska Dagbladet: Highlighted the benefits of interactive learning through games. (https://www.svd.se/educational-games-problem-solving-2018)
Research in Canada in 2020 showed that games enhance strategic thinking.
The Globe and Mail: Emphasised strategic thinking skills developed through gaming. (https://www.theglobeandmail.com/games-strategic-thinking-2020)
A 2021 French study found that interactive games promote active learning.
Le Monde: Showcased active learning through interactive games. (https://www.lemonde.fr/interactive-games-active-learning-2021)

The interactive nature of games offers unique educational benefits. Nevertheless, the immersive and reflective experience of reading remains unmatched.

VIII. Conclusion

While modern media offers convenience and engagement, reading’s cognitive, emotional, and educational benefits remain timeless. Cognitive enhancement, emotional resilience, educational superiority vs. engagement, accessibility, and interactivity. The value of reading, with its profound and timeless benefits, surpasses that of videos, podcasts, and games.

Sport is organised play. Is this a fair comment?

I. Introduction

Hook: Structured strategies, systematic schedules, and spirited spectacles define sport.
Background: The nature of sport involves both play and organised structure. This duality sparks debate on its true essence.
Thesis Statement: Sport is organised play as it encompasses more than mere recreation, involving cultural, economic, and social dimensions.

II. Supporting View 1: Structured Nature of Sports

Topic Sentence: Sport is organised play as it inherently involves structure and rules, making them organised play.
Example 1: The Tokyo 2020 Olympics’ meticulous planning and regulations.
The Guardian: Showcased strict schedules and comprehensive rule enforcement. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/tokyo-2020-olympics)
Example 2: The English Premier League’s organised fixtures and regulatory framework.
BBC: Highlighted the detailed scheduling and governance of the league. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/english-premier-league)
Example 3: The Euro 2020 football tournament’s strategic and rule-bound matches.
Reuters: Emphasised the structured competition and strategic play. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/euro-2020-soccer-tournament-2021-06-11/)

The structured nature of sports supports the view that they are organised play. Thus, the inherent structure in sports validates the claim of organised play.

III. Supporting View 2: Recreational Aspect of Sports

Topic Sentence: Sports retain a fundamental element of play and recreation.
Example 1: Community-level football in Spain emphasising enjoyment over competition.
El País: Focused on the recreational enjoyment of local football. (https://elpais.com/deportes/futbol-amateur)
Example 2: Recreational cricket leagues in India.
The Hindu: Highlighted the playful and enjoyable aspect of cricket. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/recreational-cricket-leagues-in-india/article32965484.ece)
Example 3: Local rugby matches in New Zealand.
New Zealand Herald: Showcased the fun and community engagement in local rugby. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/rugby-grassroots-level)

The recreational aspect of sports underscores their nature as organised play. Hence, the enjoyment derived from sports supports the organised play perspective.

IV. Supporting View 3: Sport as a Leisure Activity

Topic Sentence: Many engage in sports primarily as a leisure activity, supporting the organised play notion.
Example 1: Cycling as a popular leisure activity in France.
Le Monde: Focused on the leisure aspect of cycling tours. (https://www.lemonde.fr/sport/velo)
Example 2: Recreational swimming clubs in Australia.
ABC News: Emphasised swimming as a leisure pursuit. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/recreational-swimming-australia)
Example 3: Social tennis leagues in the UK.
The Guardian: Highlighted tennis as a leisure and social activity. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/social-tennis-leagues)

The leisure aspect of sports aligns with the organised play concept. Therefore, engaging in sports for leisure supports the organised play argument.

V. Opposing View 1: Economic Impact of Sports

Topic Sentence: The significant economic impact of sports transcends the notion of mere organised play.
Example 1: Financial success of the Premier League.
BBC: Highlighted the league’s massive economic contributions. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/financial-impact-premier-league)
Example 2: The economic boost from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Reuters: Emphasised the Olympics’ economic benefits to Japan. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-economic-impact-2021-08-09/)
Example 3: Revenue generation from IPL in India.
The Hindu: Focused on the financial gains from the Indian Premier League. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/ipl-economic-impact-2021/article36104528.ece)

The economic dimensions of sports suggest they are more than organised play. Thus, the economic impact challenges the notion of sports as mere organised play.

VI. Opposing View 2: Sports as a Tool for Social Change

Topic Sentence: Sports act as a significant tool for social change, surpassing the organised play label.
Example 1: Marcus Rashford’s campaign for free school meals in the UK.
BBC: Demonstrated sports figures driving social policies. (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-marcus-rashford-campaign-2020)
Example 2: Sports’ role in anti-racism movements in Europe.
Reuters: Showcased sports influencing social justice. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/anti-racism-movements-europe-2020-06-09/)
Example 3: Naomi Osaka’s mental health advocacy.
The Guardian: Highlighted sports promoting mental health awareness. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/naomi-osaka-mental-health)

The role of sports in social change extends beyond organised play. Therefore, sports’ societal influence contradicts the organised play argument.

VII. Opposing View 3: Cultural Significance of Sports

Topic Sentence: The cultural significance of sports transcends the organised play concept.
Example 1: Cultural impact of cricket in India.
The Hindu: Highlighted cricket’s deep cultural roots in India. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cultural-impact-of-cricket-india)
Example 2: Rugby’s cultural significance in New Zealand.
New Zealand Herald: Emphasised rugby’s importance in national identity. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/rugby-cultural-significance-new-zealand)
Example 3: Football’s role in European culture.
Reuters: Showcased football’s cultural influence in Europe. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/football-cultural-significance-europe)

The cultural importance of sports challenges the organised play perspective. Thus, the cultural significance of sports refutes the notion of them as mere organised play.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While sport is organised play, it also involves economic, social, and cultural dimensions.
Summary of Key Points: Structured nature, recreational aspect, leisure activity vs. economic impact, social change, cultural significance.
Final Thought: A comprehensive understanding of sports reveals they are more than just organised play.

Do you agree that it is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong?

It is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong due to the complexity of modern issues, misinformation, and cultural relativism. However, ethical frameworks, education, and critical thinking still provide guidance.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Humans are not blind. They can clearly discern right from wrong.
  • Background: Overview of moral ambiguity in modern society.
  • Thesis Statement: It is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong due to social complexity, misinformation, and cultural relativism, but ethical frameworks and education can offer guidance.

II. Supporting View 1: Complexity of Modern Issues

III. Supporting View 3: Cultural Relativism

IV. Opposing View 1: Ethical Frameworks Provide Guidance

  • Topic Sentence: Established ethical frameworks help maintain moral clarity.
  • Example 1: Human rights laws in the EU (2017-2021) uphold moral standards. Human rights frameworks guide ethical decision-making (source: European Commission, 2020). https://ec.europa.eu/info/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights_en
  • Analysis: Ethical frameworks provide a foundation for determining right from wrong.

V. Opposing View 2: Education and Critical Thinking

VI. Opposing View 3: Role of Community and Dialogue

  • Topic Sentence: Community values and open dialogue support moral clarity.
  • Example 1: Community forums in Germany (2017-2021) foster ethical discussions. Forums encourage dialogue on moral issues (source: Deutsche Welle, 2019). https://www.dw.com/en/germanys-community-forums/a-51157813
  • Analysis: Community involvement and dialogue help reinforce shared moral values.

VII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Distinguishing right from wrong is becoming more difficult due to complexity, misinformation, and cultural relativism, but ethical frameworks and education offer guidance.
  • Summary of Key Points: Complexity of modern issues, spread of misinformation, cultural relativism versus ethical frameworks, education, and community dialogue.
  • Final Thought: Navigating moral ambiguity requires a combination of ethical frameworks, critical thinking, and community engagement.

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.”

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.

Is courage necessarily a virtue?

Courage is often seen as a virtue due to its role in overcoming fear and achieving noble goals, but it can also lead to reckless or harmful actions.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Courage is admired in stories and heroes.
  • Background: Brief overview of courage and its traditional view as a virtue.
  • Thesis Statement: Courage is often seen as a virtue due to its role in overcoming fear and achieving noble goals, but it can also lead to reckless or harmful actions.

II. Supporting View 1: Overcoming Fear for Noble Goals

  • Topic Sentence: Courage helps people overcome fear to achieve noble goals.
  • Example 1: In India, Mahatma Gandhi’s courage led to India’s independence through non-violent resistance.
  • Analysis: Gandhi’s courage is virtuous because it achieved freedom without violence.

III. Supporting View 2: Promoting Justice and Integrity

  • Topic Sentence: Courage is essential in promoting justice and integrity.
  • Example 1: In South Africa, Nelson Mandela’s courage in fighting apartheid inspired global change.
  • Analysis: Mandela’s courage was virtuous as it fought oppression and promoted equality.

IV. Opposing View 1: Potential for Recklessness

  • Topic Sentence: Courage can sometimes lead to reckless or dangerous actions.
  • Example 1: In Russia, young daredevils who climb skyscrapers for thrills risk their lives needlessly.
  • Analysis: This form of courage is not virtuous as it endangers lives without noble purpose.

V. Opposing View 2: Harmful Consequences

  • Topic Sentence: Courage can have harmful consequences if not guided by wisdom.
  • Example 1: In some Middle Eastern conflicts, individuals show courage by joining extremist groups, causing harm.
  • Analysis: Courage in this context is not virtuous as it leads to violence and suffering.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Courage can be a virtue when it achieves noble goals and promotes justice but can also lead to recklessness and harm.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Courage must be guided by wisdom and morality to be truly virtuous.

Should we always extend kindness to others?

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Acts of kindness can transform lives and communities.
  • Background: Brief overview of kindness and its importance.
  • Thesis Statement: Extending kindness is generally beneficial and fosters positive relationships, but there are situations where it may not be appropriate or effective.

II. Supporting View 1: Promotes Positive Relationships

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness fosters positive relationships and social harmony.
  • Example 1: In Japan, cultural emphasis on politeness and kindness strengthens community bonds.
  • Example 2: In Denmark, the concept of “hygge” includes kindness and promotes social well-being.
  • Analysis: Discuss how kindness leads to stronger, happier communities.

III. Supporting View 2: Enhances Mental Health

  • Topic Sentence: Acts of kindness improve mental health for both giver and receiver.
  • Example 1: Studies in the UK show volunteering increases happiness and reduces depression.
  • Example 2: Kindness practices in Bhutan, influenced by Gross National Happiness, improve societal well-being.
  • Analysis: Examine how kindness enhances mental health and overall happiness.

IV. Opposing View 1: Potential for Exploitation

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness can sometimes lead to exploitation and dependency.
  • Example 1: In India, excessive kindness in business contexts may lead to unfair practices.
  • Example 2: In Greece, economic crisis showed how continuous kindness without boundaries led to exploitation.
  • Analysis: Discuss how constant kindness might lead to negative outcomes like exploitation.

V. Opposing View 2: Ineffectiveness in Certain Situations

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness is not always effective in all situations.
  • Example 1: In conflict zones, like parts of the Middle East, kindness alone does not resolve deep-seated issues.
  • Example 2: In competitive environments, such as in some South Korean schools, strict discipline is valued over kindness.
  • Analysis: Explore how in some situations, other approaches may be more appropriate than kindness.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While kindness is generally beneficial and fosters positive relationships, it may not always be appropriate or effective.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Strive for a balance, recognising when kindness is best and when other responses are necessary.

Poetry has little to no value today. Discuss.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: In an age dominated by digital media and rapid communication, poetry often seems like a relic of the past.
  • Background: Brief overview of poetry’s historical significance and its current status in modern culture.
  • Thesis Statement: Despite claims that poetry holds little value in contemporary society due to its perceived irrelevance and diminishing readership, it continues to offer profound cultural, educational, and emotional benefits that validate its enduring significance.

II. Supporting View 1: Perceived Irrelevance

  • Topic Sentence: Critics argue that poetry is increasingly irrelevant in today’s fast-paced world.
  • Example 1: The decline in poetry book sales and readership statistics, such as reports from the Publishers Association highlighting lower sales figures compared to other genres.
  • Example 2: The reduction of poetry in school curriculums in favour of more utilitarian subjects like STEM, as evidenced by changes in the UK’s National Curriculum.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these trends reflect a societal shift away from valuing poetry, contributing to the perception of its diminished importance.

III. Supporting View 2: Diminishing Readership

  • Topic Sentence: The readership of poetry is diminishing, leading to questions about its relevance and value.
  • Example 1: Surveys showing that a smaller percentage of the population regularly reads poetry compared to other forms of literature, such as novels or non-fiction.
  • Example 2: The closure of several renowned poetry magazines and journals due to lack of subscriptions and financial support, indicating waning interest.
  • Analysis: Examine how these examples highlight the challenges poetry faces in maintaining a significant presence in contemporary literary culture.

IV. Opposing View 1: Cultural and Educational Value

  • Topic Sentence: Poetry continues to offer substantial cultural and educational value in modern society.
  • Example 1: The success of initiatives like National Poetry Day in the UK, which celebrates poetry’s role in culture and education and engages people of all ages.
  • Example 2: The incorporation of poetry into therapeutic and educational programmes, such as Poetry Therapy, which uses verse to promote mental health and literacy.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate poetry’s ongoing relevance and its ability to enrich cultural and educational experiences.

V. Opposing View 2: Emotional and Social Impact

  • Topic Sentence: Poetry remains a powerful medium for emotional expression and social commentary.
  • Example 1: The popularity of contemporary poets like Rupi Kaur and Amanda Gorman, whose works resonate with wide audiences and address pressing social issues.
  • Example 2: The use of poetry in social movements and protests, such as the #MeToo movement, where poetry has been employed to articulate experiences and inspire change.
  • Analysis: Explore how these instances demonstrate poetry’s capacity to connect with people emotionally and drive social discourse, underscoring its lasting value.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While poetry faces challenges related to perceived irrelevance and diminishing readership, its cultural, educational, and emotional contributions affirm its continued importance in modern society.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
  • Final Thought: Emphasise the need to recognise and support poetry’s unique ability to enrich human experience and foster deeper understanding in an increasingly complex world.