Category: Social Issues

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.

A nation’s right to sovereignty takes precedence over human rights. Do you agree?

Prioritising human rights over sovereignty is essential.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: A nation’s sovereignty must not overshadow the fundamental rights of individuals.
  • Background: Overview of the tension between national sovereignty and human rights.
  • Thesis Statement: While sovereignty is crucial, it should not take precedence over human rights, as human rights ensure justice and dignity for all.

II. Supporting View 1: Importance of Sovereignty for Independence

III. Supporting View 2: Sovereignty in National Security

IV. Supporting View 3: Sovereignty in Cultural Preservation

V. Opposing View 1: Human Rights as Universal Standards

VI. Opposing View 2: International Accountability

VII. Opposing View 3: Long-term Peace and Stability

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While sovereignty is crucial, it should not take precedence over human rights, as human rights ensure justice and dignity for all.
  • Summary of Key Points: Sovereignty for independence, security, and culture versus universal human rights, international accountability, long-term stability.
  • Final Thought: Balancing sovereignty with human rights is essential for global justice and enduring peace.

The sole purpose of any multi-national company is to maximise returns to its shareholders. Do you agree?

While maximising returns to shareholders is a primary purpose of multi-national companies (MNCs), they also increasingly focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Multi-national companies exist solely to enrich their shareholders. Why else would they be multi-national?
  • Background: Overview of the traditional role of MNCs and evolving perspectives.
  • Thesis Statement: Maximising shareholder returns is crucial for MNCs, but they also focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.

II. Supporting View 1: Maximising Shareholder Returns

III. Supporting View 2: Financial Performance Focus

IV. Supporting View 3: Regulatory Compliance for Profit

V. Opposing View 1: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

VI. Opposing View 2: Stakeholder Value Focus

VII. Opposing View 3: Ethical Business Practices

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Maximising shareholder returns is crucial for MNCs, but they also focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.
  • Summary of Key Points: Shareholder returns, financial performance, regulatory compliance versus CSR, stakeholder value, ethical practices.
  • Final Thought: Balancing profit with ethical and social responsibilities is essential for sustainable success in the modern business environment.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. To what extent is it justifiable for governments to adopt this approach?

While adopting desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations to ensure public safety and stability, it risks undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term societal trust. Ethics can be the guiding light.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: The end justifies the means. In times of crisis, government actions be justified.
  • Background: Overview of government responses to emergencies.
  • Thesis Statement: Desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations but risk undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term trust.

II. Supporting View 1: Ensuring Public Safety

  • Topic Sentence: Adopting desperate measures at times is justified to ensure public safety in extreme crises.
  • Example 1: New Zealand’s strict COVID-19 lockdown (2020-2021). Strict lockdown measures curbed virus spread effectively (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 2: Australia’s bushfire emergency response (2019-2020). Government enforced evacuations and firebreaks to protect lives (source: The Guardian, 2020). https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/jan/06/australian-bushfires-what-did-the-government-do
  • Example 3: Italy’s stringent earthquake measures (2016-2021).
    • Analysis: In extreme situations, urgent measures are necessary to protect public safety.

    III. Supporting View 2: Stabilising the Economy

    IV. Supporting View 3: Addressing National Security Threats

    V. Opposing View 1: Undermining Democratic Principles

    VI. Opposing View 2: Violating Human Rights

    VII. Opposing View 3: Eroding Public Trust

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations to ensure public safety and stability, but they risk undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term societal trust.
    • Summary of Key Points: Public safety, economic stability, national security versus democratic principles, human rights, public trust.
    • Final Thought: Balancing immediate needs with long-term values is crucial for justifying extreme measures.

    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.

    Solitude is enjoyable and beneficial. Discuss.

    Solitude in the right combination can be enjoyable and beneficial, fostering creativity, personal growth, and mental health. However, it can also lead to loneliness, anxiety, and social disconnection if experienced excessively.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: Solitude is a sanctuary for the mind.
    • Background: Overview of the concept of solitude and its impacts.
    • Thesis Statement: Solitude can be enjoyable and beneficial, promoting creativity, personal growth, and mental health.

    II. Supporting View 1: Solitude Fosters Creativity

    III. Supporting View 2: Solitude Promotes Personal Growth

    IV. Supporting View 3: Solitude Improves Mental Health

    V. Opposing View 1: Solitude Can Lead to Loneliness

    VI. Opposing View 2: Solitude May Increase Anxiety

    VII. Opposing View 3: Solitude Can Lead to Social Disconnection

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Solitude is generally enjoyable and beneficial, promoting creativity, personal growth, and mental health, but excessive solitude can have negative effects.
    • Summary of Key Points: Solitude fosters creativity, personal growth, mental health versus loneliness, anxiety, social disconnection.
    • Final Thought: Balancing solitude with social interaction can maximise its benefits and minimise its drawbacks.

    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.

    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.

    Technology is the only effective means of tackling social problems. Discuss.

    Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to services, fostering communication, and promoting innovation. However, it also poses challenges such as exacerbating inequality, privacy issues, and technological dependency

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: Technology can effectively tackle social problems with speed and ease like never before.
    • Background: Overview of technology’s role in addressing social problems.
    • Thesis Statement: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems.

    II. Supporting View 1: Improved Access to Services

    • Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to essential services.
    • Example 1: India’s Aadhaar system (2010-present) provided millions with a digital identity, facilitating access to government services. Helped marginalised communities access subsidies and benefits (source: BBC, 2017).
    • Example 2: Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile banking (2007-present) enabled financial inclusion for millions without bank accounts. Revolutionised financial transactions and reduced poverty (source: The Guardian, 2015).
    • Example 3: Brazil’s Telehealth programme (2012-present) increased healthcare access in remote areas. Reduced healthcare disparities through telemedicine (source: Reuters, 2018).
    • Analysis: These examples show how technology enhances access to essential services, benefiting disadvantaged populations.

    III. Supporting View 2: Fostering Communication and Awareness

    • Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by fostering communication and raising awareness of social issues.
    • Example 1: #MeToo movement in India (2017-present) leveraged social media to highlight sexual harassment. Empowered survivors and initiated widespread social discourse (source: The New York Times, 2018).
    • Example 2: Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) used social media to organise and spread awareness. Enabled real-time coordination and global visibility (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: Chile’s feminist protests (2018-present) used digital platforms to mobilise and advocate for gender equality. Raised international awareness and sparked policy changes (source: Al Jazeera, 2019).
    • Analysis: These instances illustrate how technology can amplify voices and drive social change.

    IV. Supporting View 3: Promoting Innovation and Efficiency

    • Topic Sentence: Technology drives innovation and efficiency in addressing social issues.
    • Example 1: Sweden’s smart cities (2015-present) use technology to enhance urban living and sustainability. Improved energy efficiency and quality of life (source: World Economic Forum, 2018).
    • Example 2: South Korea’s digital classrooms (2010-present) bridged educational gaps with e-learning. Equalised access to quality education (source: The Korea Times, 2017).
    • Example 3: Norway’s electric vehicle incentives (2010-present) reduced pollution and promoted sustainable transport. Became a global leader in EV adoption (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Analysis: These examples demonstrate technology’s role in creating innovative solutions for social problems.

    V. Opposing View 1: Exacerbating Inequality

    • Topic Sentence: Technology can widen the gap between rich and poor.
    • Example 1: India’s digital divide (2015-present) left rural areas lagging in internet access. Exacerbated educational and economic disparities (source: The Hindu, 2020).
    • Example 2: South Africa’s unequal access to technology (2010-present) reinforced social inequalities. Marginalised communities missed out on technological benefits (source: Mail & Guardian, 2019).
    • Example 3: Brazil’s urban-rural technology gap (2010-present) highlighted systemic inequalities. Limited technological advancements to urban areas (source: Folha de S.Paulo, 2018).
    • Analysis: These cases show how unequal access to technology can deepen existing social disparities.

    VI. Opposing View 2: Privacy and Security Concerns

    • Topic Sentence: Technology raises significant privacy and security concerns.
    • Example 1: China’s social credit system (2014-present) sparked global privacy debates. Extensive surveillance and data collection raised ethical issues (source: The Guardian, 2018).
    • Example 2: Europe’s GDPR violations (2018-present) highlighted the complexity of data privacy. Companies struggled to comply, risking user data (source: Financial Times, 2019).
    • Example 3: India’s Aadhaar data breaches (2010-present) exposed millions to privacy risks. Compromised personal information and security (source: The New York Times, 2018).
    • Analysis: These examples illustrate the significant privacy risks associated with technological advancements.

    VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Dependency and Disruption

    • Topic Sentence: Over-reliance on technology can lead to dependency and disruption.
    • Example 1: Japan’s 2011 earthquake revealed vulnerabilities in technology-dependent societies. Disrupted essential services, highlighting risks (source: BBC, 2011).
    • Example 2: South Korea’s cybersecurity threats (2010-present) demonstrated risks of digital dependency. Increased vulnerability to cyber-attacks (source: The Korea Herald, 2020).
    • Example 3: Brazil’s digital economy (2015-present) faced challenges during internet outages. Economic activities halted, showing over-reliance on technology (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Analysis: These instances show how technological dependency can lead to significant disruptions.

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems but also presents significant challenges.
    • Summary of Key Points: Improved access, communication, innovation versus inequality, privacy, and dependency.
    • Final Thought: Balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations is crucial for addressing social problems effectively.

    Nota Benne:

    Can laws be implemented to solve social problems? What about the role of education?

    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

    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:

    1. Bowen, Murray. Family Therapy in Clinical Practice. Rowman & Littlefield, 2019.
    2. 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:

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