Social Issues – Gp Lah!

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?

Romance novels are only for the foolish. Comment.

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

I. Introduction

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

II. Supporting View 1: Emotional Growth and Empathy

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

III. Supporting View 2: Insight into Social Issues

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

IV. Supporting View 3: Escapism and Mental Health Benefits

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

V. Opposing View 1: Perceived Lack of Literary Merit

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

VI. Opposing View 2: Reinforcement of Stereotypes

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

VII. Opposing View 3: Unrealistic Expectations

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

VIII. Conclusion

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

Reading References:

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

Do you agree with the view that the most dangerous threats to mankind today are political and religious extremism?

Political and religious extremism pose significant threats to mankind today, though other factors such as climate change, economic instability, and technological risks are equally dangerous.

I. Introduction

Hook: Threats to mankind in the form of extremist ideologies often dominate headlines and incite fear globally.
Background: Overview of recent instances of political and religious extremism.
Thesis Statement: Political and religious extremism pose significant threats to mankind today, though other factors such as climate change, economic instability, and technological risks are equally dangerous.

II. Supporting View 1: Political Extremism

Topic Sentence: Political extremism destabilises societies and endangers lives.
Example 1: The Syrian civil war (2011-present) has caused immense suffering.
Example 2: Venezuela’s political crisis (2013-present) led to mass displacement.
Example 3: Myanmar’s military coup (2021) resulted in widespread violence.
Analysis: These examples show how political extremism disrupts peace and stability.

III. Supporting View 2: Religious Extremism

Topic Sentence: Religious extremism incites violence and terror.
Example 1: Boko Haram’s insurgency in Nigeria (2010-present) caused many deaths.
Example 2: Sri Lanka’s Easter bombings (2019) killed hundreds.
Example 3: ISIS attacks in Europe (2015-2017) spread fear and chaos.
Analysis: These instances highlight the lethal impact of religious extremism.

IV. Supporting View 3: Global Influence of Extremism

Topic Sentence: Extremism’s global reach amplifies its threat to mankind.
Example 1: Spread of far-right movements in Europe (2015-present).
Example 2: Rise of jihadist groups in Africa (2010-present).
Example 3: Influence of extremist ideologies on social media (2010-present).
Analysis: The global influence of extremism intensifies its danger to mankind.

V. Opposing View 1: Climate Change

Topic Sentence: Climate change poses a more existential threat.
Example 1: Australia’s bushfires (2019-2020) devastated ecosystems.
Example 2: Floods in South Asia (2020) displaced millions.
Example 3: Droughts in Africa (2015-present) exacerbated food insecurity.
Analysis: These events demonstrate the severe impact of climate change on human survival.

VI. Opposing View 2: Economic Instability

Topic Sentence: Economic instability threatens global stability and is a threat to mankind.
Example 1: Greece’s debt crisis (2010-2018) caused widespread hardship.
Example 2: Argentina’s financial crisis (2018-present) led to severe poverty.
Example 3: Lebanon’s economic collapse (2019-present) resulted in mass protests.
Analysis: Economic instability can destabilise nations and affect millions.

VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Risks

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements can also pose significant threats.
Example 1: Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure in Ukraine (2015-present).
Example 2: Data privacy breaches in Europe (2015-present).
Example 3: AI misuse concerns in China (2010-present).
Analysis: These examples highlight the dangers of unchecked technological advancements.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Political and religious extremism pose significant threats, but other factors such as climate change, economic instability, and technological risks are equally dangerous.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Addressing these threats requires a comprehensive approach that considers all potential dangers to mankind.

Reading References:

Hoffman, Bruce. Inside Terrorism. Columbia University Press, 2017.
Stern, Jessica, and J.M. Berger. ISIS: The State of Terror. Ecco, 2015.
Mann, Michael E. The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy. Columbia University Press, 2016.
Old but still gold: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2005/10/21/in-gods-name-evaluating-the-links-between-religious-extremism-and-terrorism/

The only way to deal with a criminal is to remove him from society. Discuss.

While removing criminals from society can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer alternative solutions that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.

I. Introduction

Hook: Crime remains a significant challenge for societies worldwide.
Background: Overview of traditional and alternative approaches to dealing with criminals.
Thesis Statement: While removing criminals from society can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer alternative solutions that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.

II. Supporting View 1: Public Safety

Topic Sentence: Removing criminals ensures public safety by preventing further harm.
Example 1: In 2020, the UK increased sentences for serious offenders to protect citizens.
Example 2: In 2019, Italy’s anti-mafia operations removed dangerous criminals from society.
Example 3: In 2021, Australia implemented strict measures to detain violent offenders.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how removing criminals enhances public safety.

III. Supporting View 2: Deterrence

Topic Sentence: Harsh penalties serve as a deterrent to potential criminals.
Example 1: In 2018, Singapore’s strict drug laws deterred drug trafficking.
Example 2: In 2019, Saudi Arabia’s severe penalties for theft reduced crime rates.
Example 3: In 2020, Japan’s tough stance on organised crime deterred criminal activities.
Analysis: These instances show that strict penalties can deter criminal behaviour.

IV. Supporting View 3: Retribution

Topic Sentence: Removing criminals serves as retribution, providing justice for victims.
Example 1: In 2019, India imposed death penalties for heinous crimes, providing closure to victims’ families.
Example 2: In 2020, South Africa’s long prison sentences for violent crimes satisfied public demand for justice.
Example 3: In 2021, France’s life sentences for terrorists offered retribution to affected communities.
Analysis: These examples illustrate how removing criminals satisfies the need for justice and retribution.

V. Opposing View 1: Rehabilitation

Topic Sentence: Rehabilitation offers a chance for criminals to reform and reintegrate.
Example 1: In 2020, Norway’s rehabilitation programmes significantly reduced reoffending rates.
Example 2: In 2019, Sweden’s focus on rehabilitation over punishment led to successful reintegration of offenders.
Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s humane prison system prioritised rehabilitation, showing positive outcomes.
Analysis: These cases demonstrate the effectiveness of rehabilitation in reducing reoffending and promoting reintegration.

VI. Opposing View 2: Restorative Justice

Topic Sentence: Restorative justice addresses the harm caused and promotes healing.
Example 1: In 2018, New Zealand’s restorative justice practices helped victims and offenders reconcile.
Example 2: In 2019, South Africa’s community justice programmes resolved conflicts and healed communities.
Example 3: In 2020, Canada’s restorative justice initiatives reduced recidivism and repaired harm.
Analysis: These instances show how restorative justice can effectively address crime’s impact and promote healing.

VII. Opposing View 3: Social and Economic Costs

Topic Sentence: Removing criminals from society incurs high social and economic costs.
Example 1: In 2020, the UK faced criticism for the high costs of long-term imprisonment.
Example 2: In 2019, Italy struggled with overcrowded prisons and the associated costs.
Example 3: In 2021, Australia debated the financial burden of extensive incarceration policies.
Analysis: These examples highlight the significant social and economic costs of removing criminals from society.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While removing criminals can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer viable alternatives that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: A balanced approach combining removal, rehabilitation, and restorative justice can effectively address crime and promote societal well-being.

The main benefits of science have been material comforts and longer life. Do you agree?

While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science has revolutionised our lives in many ways.
Background: Overview of the impacts of scientific advancements on society.
Thesis Statement: While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

II. Supporting View 1: Material Comforts

Topic Sentence: Science has greatly improved material comforts.
Example 1: In 2021, Japan’s advancements in robotics improved household convenience.
Example 2: In 2019, Germany’s renewable energy innovations led to sustainable living.
Example 3: In 2020, South Korea’s smart home technology enhanced everyday comfort.
Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have provided significant material comforts.

III. Supporting View 2: Longer Life

Topic Sentence: Science has extended human lifespan.
Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s COVID-19 vaccines saved countless lives.
Example 2: In 2020, Japan’s advancements in geriatric care improved elderly health.
Example 3: In 2019, Singapore’s healthcare innovations increased life expectancy.
Analysis: These instances illustrate how scientific progress has contributed to longer, healthier lives.

IV. Supporting View 3: Improved Quality of Life

Topic Sentence: Science has improved the overall quality of life.
Example 1: In 2020, Sweden’s advancements in clean air technology improved public health.
Example 2: In 2019, Norway’s electric vehicle adoption reduced pollution.
Example 3: In 2018, Switzerland’s medical research advancements provided better disease management.
Analysis: These examples highlight how science has enhanced life quality through health and environmental improvements.

V. Opposing View 1: Environmental Preservation

Topic Sentence: Science has provided material comforts but more significantly science also has contributed to environmental preservation.
Example 1: In 2021, Costa Rica’s use of renewable energy promoted sustainability.
Example 2: In 2019, Kenya’s conservation technology protected wildlife.
Example 3: In 2020, the Netherlands’ water management technology prevented flooding.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate science’s role in protecting and preserving the environment.

VI. Opposing View 2: Global Communication

Topic Sentence: Besides providing material comforts, science has transformed global communication.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s satellite technology improved rural connectivity.
Example 2: In 2019, South Korea’s 5G network revolutionised communication.
Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s internet technology enabled remote working.
Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have facilitated better global communication and connectivity.

VII. Opposing View 3: Enhanced Knowledge

Topic Sentence: Science has significantly enhanced human knowledge. This overshadows the aspect of science has provided material comforts.
Example 1: In 2021, CERN’s research in Switzerland advanced our understanding of physics.
Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s space missions provided new insights into the universe.
Example 3: In 2020, China’s AI research pushed the boundaries of technology.
Analysis: These instances illustrate science’s role in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While science has provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: The true value of science lies in its broad and transformative impact on all aspects of life.

The problems of poverty can only get worse in the current climate. Discuss.

There is no doubt that climate change exacerbates poverty. While current economic and environmental challenges exacerbate poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope for alleviating it.

I. Introduction

Hook: Climate change is catastrophic for the poor. Poverty remains a pressing global issue.
Background: Overview of current economic and environmental challenges.
Thesis Statement: While current economic and environmental challenges exacerbate poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope for alleviating it.

II. Supporting View 1: Economic Inequality

Topic Sentence: Rising economic inequality worsens poverty.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s wealth gap widened, increasing poverty.
Example 2: In 2019, South Africa faced growing economic disparity and poverty.
Example 3: In 2021, Brazil saw increased inequality due to the pandemic.
Analysis: These examples show how economic inequality exacerbates poverty.

III. Supporting View 2: Climate Change

Topic Sentence: Climate change exacerbates poverty by affecting livelihoods.
Example 1: In 2019, Cyclone Idai devastated Mozambique, increasing poverty.
Example 2: In 2020, Australian bushfires harmed agriculture and local economies.
Example 3: In 2021, floods in Germany displaced thousands, worsening poverty.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how climate disasters worsen poverty conditions.

IV. Supporting View 3: Pandemic Impact

Topic Sentence: The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened poverty globally.
Example 1: In 2020, Kenya’s economy suffered, increasing poverty levels.
Example 2: In 2021, Peru faced economic collapse, worsening poverty.
Example 3: In 2020, India’s lockdowns severely impacted the poor.
Analysis: These examples show the pandemic’s significant impact on poverty.

V. Opposing View 1: Innovative Policies

Topic Sentence: Innovative policies can help alleviate poverty.
Example 1: In 2019, Finland’s basic income experiment reduced poverty.
Example 2: In 2021, South Korea’s universal welfare policies helped the poor.
Example 3: In 2020, Germany’s social safety nets supported many during the pandemic.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate how innovative policies can reduce poverty.

VI. Opposing View 2: Technological Advancements

Topic Sentence: Technology offers new solutions to combat poverty.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s digital payments increased financial inclusion.
Example 2: In 2019, Kenya’s M-Pesa revolutionised banking for the poor.
Example 3: In 2021, Rwanda’s drone deliveries improved healthcare access.
Analysis: These examples highlight how technology can alleviate poverty.

VII. Opposing View 3: Global Cooperation

Topic Sentence: International cooperation can address global poverty.
Example 1: In 2020, the EU’s recovery fund supported member states in crisis.
Example 2: In 2019, China’s Belt and Road Initiative invested in developing nations.
Example 3: In 2021, the UN’s SDGs targeted global poverty reduction.
Analysis: These instances show the potential of global cooperation to reduce poverty.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While current challenges worsen poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Collective efforts and innovation are essential to combat poverty effectively.

A good leader must be a good follower. Is this necessarily true?

A good leader often benefits from being a good follower, gaining essential skills and insights. However, leadership also requires independent thinking and decisive action, which do not always align with the premise of the question.

I. Introduction

Hook: Leadership and followership are often seen as opposing roles.
Background: Brief overview of leadership qualities and the importance of followership.
Thesis Statement: A good leader often benefits from being a good follower, gaining essential skills and insights. However, leadership also requires independent thinking and decisive action, which do not always align with following.

II. Supporting View 1: Understanding Team Dynamics

Topic Sentence: Good followers understand team dynamics, which is crucial for effective leadership.
Example 1: In 2020, Jacinda Ardern’s collaborative approach in New Zealand showed strong team dynamics.
Example 2: In 2018, Emmanuel Macron’s rise involved understanding and working within different political groups in France.
Example 3: In 2021, Sanna Marin’s leadership in Finland highlighted her ability to engage with her team.
Analysis: These examples show that understanding team dynamics enhances leadership effectiveness.

III. Supporting View 2: Empathy and Support

Topic Sentence: Good followers develop empathy and the ability to support others, crucial for leaders.
Example 1: In 2017, Angela Merkel’s empathetic response to the refugee crisis showed her understanding of people’s needs in Germany.
Example 2: In 2019, Justin Trudeau’s supportive policies in Canada demonstrated empathy.
Example 3: In 2018, Leo Varadkar’s leadership in Ireland reflected his supportive approach to social issues.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how empathy and support are vital leadership qualities developed through good followership.

IV. Supporting View 3: Learning from Leaders

Topic Sentence: Good followers learn from their leaders, which is essential for their own leadership development.
Example 1: In 2018, Theresa May’s experience under David Cameron in the UK shaped her leadership.
Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s Shinzo Abe benefited from his early political roles.
Example 3: In 2020, Pedro Sánchez of Spain grew through his political experiences.
Analysis: These examples highlight how learning from leaders can prepare individuals for their own leadership roles.

V. Opposing View 1: Independent Thinking

Topic Sentence: Leadership requires independent thinking, which does not always align with being a follower.
Example 1: In 2019, Narendra Modi’s decisive actions in India showed independent leadership.
Example 2: In 2018, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman demonstrated independent, sometimes controversial, decisions.
Example 3: In 2020, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky showed strong independent leadership in crisis.
Analysis: These cases demonstrate how independent thinking is crucial for effective leadership.

VI. Opposing View 2: Decisiveness and Authority

Topic Sentence: Leaders need to make decisive and authoritative decisions, which followers may not always do.
Example 1: In 2021, Boris Johnson’s handling of the UK’s COVID-19 response required decisive leadership.
Example 2: In 2020, South Korea’s Moon Jae-in took decisive actions against COVID-19.
Example 3: In 2019, Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed’s peace efforts required authoritative decisions.
Analysis: These instances show that decisiveness and authority are essential for leadership, sometimes contrasting with followership.

VII. Opposing View 3: Vision and Innovation

Topic Sentence: Effective leaders often have a vision and drive innovation, which followers may lack.
Example 1: In 2020, Taiwan’s Tsai Ing-wen showed innovative leadership in technology and health.
Example 2: In 2018, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame led with a vision for technological advancement.
Analysis: These examples illustrate that having a vision and driving innovation are key leadership traits.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While being a good follower can enhance leadership skills, effective leadership also requires independent thinking, decisiveness, and vision.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: A balanced approach that integrates followership experiences with independent leadership traits is ideal.

This essay is overly focused on politicians and may not score well, although it has many examples. It is important to provide a broad perspective of where leaders are needed. Leaders can be found in schools, the military, prisons, and any place where hierarchies are required, i.e., even at home.

Affluence is as much a curse as a blessing. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: Wealth is often seen as the key to happiness.
Background: Overview of the advantages and disadvantages of affluence.
Thesis Statement: Affluence brings comfort and opportunities but also leads to social isolation and environmental harm, making it both a curse and a blessing.

II. Supporting View 1: Increased Comfort and Opportunities

Topic Sentence: Affluence provides comfort and numerous opportunities.
Example 1: In 2019, Singapore’s high-income citizens enjoyed excellent healthcare and education.
Example 2: In 2021, Qatar’s wealth funded state-of-the-art infrastructure and public services.
Example 3: In 2018, Switzerland’s affluent society benefited from high living standards and security.
Analysis: These examples show how wealth can improve quality of life and provide opportunities.

III. Supporting View 2: Ability to Support Others

Topic Sentence: Affluent individuals and nations can support others in need.
Example 1: In 2020, Norway donated significant funds for global COVID-19 relief.
Example 2: In 2018, the UAE provided extensive humanitarian aid to war-torn Yemen.
Example 3: In 2021, Germany funded various international development projects.
Analysis: These instances highlight how affluence enables support for less fortunate communities.

IV. Opposing View 1: Social Isolation and Mental Health Issues

Topic Sentence: Affluence can lead to social isolation and mental health problems.
Example 1: In 2021, reports from Japan showed high rates of loneliness among wealthy individuals.
Example 2: In 2019, South Korea saw a rise in mental health issues among its affluent youth.
Example 3: In 2018, the UK reported increased depression rates in wealthy areas.
Analysis: These examples illustrate how wealth can lead to social isolation and mental health struggles.

V. Opposing View 2: Environmental Impact

Topic Sentence: Affluence contributes to significant environmental damage.
Example 1: In 2020, China’s rapid industrialisation led to severe air pollution.
Example 2: In 2019, the UAE’s high consumption rates resulted in significant waste production.
Example 3: In 2021, Australia’s affluent lifestyle contributed to large carbon footprints.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate how affluent lifestyles can harm the environment.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Affluence brings comfort and opportunities but also leads to social isolation and environmental harm, making it both a curse and a blessing.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance the pursuit of wealth with awareness of its potential drawbacks.

Is the cost of developing a national identity too high?

The cost of developing a national identity can be high due to potential social and economic conflicts. However, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.

I. Introduction

Hook: National identity shapes a nation’s character and values.
Background: Overview of the importance and costs of developing national identity.
Thesis Statement: The cost of developing a national identity can be high due to potential social and economic conflicts. However, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.

II. Supporting View 1: Social Conflict

Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity can lead to social conflict.
Example 1: In 2017, Catalonia’s push for independence caused severe tension in Spain.
Example 2: In 2014, Scotland’s independence referendum divided the UK.
Example 3: In 2019, the Hong Kong protests highlighted identity struggles within China.
Analysis: These examples show how efforts to develop national identity can cause social unrest and division.

III. Supporting View 2: Economic Costs

Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity can incur significant economic costs.
Example 1: In 2016, Brexit led to economic uncertainty in the UK.
Example 2: In 2018, Italy’s nationalist policies strained its economy and EU relations.
Example 3: In 2020, India’s national identity campaigns, like “Make in India,” faced economic challenges.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate how national identity efforts can lead to substantial economic costs.

IV. Opposing View 1: Unity and Social Cohesion

Topic Sentence: National identity fosters unity and social cohesion.
Example 1: In 2021, Japan’s Olympics fostered national pride and unity.
Example 2: In 2018, France’s World Cup victory boosted national morale.
Example 3: In 2017, Finland’s centenary celebrations reinforced national unity.
Analysis: These examples illustrate how a strong national identity can bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

V. Opposing View 2: Cultural Preservation

Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity helps preserve cultural heritage.
Example 1: In 2021, South Korea promoted its cultural heritage through K-pop and K-dramas.
Example 2: In 2016, India celebrated its cultural diversity through various national initiatives.
Example 3: In 2020, Ireland’s cultural festivals reinforced its unique identity.
Analysis: These instances highlight how national identity efforts help preserve and promote cultural heritage.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While developing a national identity can be costly due to social and economic conflicts, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance efforts to foster national identity with strategies to mitigate social and economic costs.