Examine the claim that patriotism is of little value in modern times.

While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Patriotism is often debated in today’s globalised world.
  • Background: Overview of patriotism’s role historically and in contemporary society.
  • Thesis Statement: While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

II. Supporting View 1: Globalisation Reduces Patriotism

  • Topic Sentence: Globalisation diminishes the value of patriotism.
  • Example 1: In 2016, the Brexit debate highlighted how globalisation challenges national loyalty in the UK.
  • Example 2: In 2020, protests in Hong Kong emphasised a struggle between local identity and global influences.
  • Example 3: In 2018, the Catalonia independence movement showed the conflict between regionalism and national loyalty in Spain.
  • Analysis: These examples show how globalisation and regional identities challenge traditional patriotism.

III. Supporting View 2: Modern Challenges Outweigh Patriotism

  • Topic Sentence: Modern challenges make patriotism seem less relevant.
  • Example 1: In 2021, climate change protests in Germany prioritised global environmental issues over national pride.
  • Example 2: In 2019, the refugee crisis in Europe raised questions about national borders versus humanitarian concerns.
  • Example 3: In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required global cooperation, reducing focus on national interests.
  • Analysis: These instances illustrate how pressing global issues can overshadow patriotic sentiments.

IV. Opposing View 1: Patriotism Promotes National Unity

  • Topic Sentence: Patriotism fosters national unity and social cohesion.
  • Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s response to COVID-19 saw a surge in national unity and support for the NHS.
  • Example 2: In 2018, the French rallied together during the World Cup, boosting national pride and unity.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Japan’s Olympics preparations highlighted patriotism and collective effort.
  • Analysis: These examples show how patriotism can bring people together, fostering unity and pride.

V. Opposing View 2: Patriotism Maintains National Identity

  • Topic Sentence: Patriotism helps maintain and celebrate national identity.
  • Example 1: In 2017, India’s celebration of Independence Day highlighted its cultural heritage and unity.
  • Example 2: In 2020, Russia’s Victory Day parade reinforced national pride and historical remembrance.
  • Example 3: In 2019, Australia Day celebrated national achievements and identity despite controversies.
  • Analysis: These instances demonstrate how patriotism sustains national identity and cultural values.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While globalisation and modern challenges may reduce patriotism’s perceived value, it remains crucial for national unity and identity.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Balance global cooperation with national pride to navigate modern complexities.

Is there a justifiable need for wildlife?

Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value. However, some argue it conflicts with human needs and development.

I. Introduction

II. Supporting View 1: Ecological Balance

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife maintains ecological balance and supports ecosystems.
  • Example 1: In Kenya, elephants help shape the landscape and promote biodiversity.
  • Example 2: In India, tigers control herbivore populations, preserving forest health.
  • Example 3: In Australia, bees pollinate crops, vital for food production.
  • Analysis: These examples show how wildlife is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

III. Supporting View 2: Scientific Research

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife is invaluable for scientific research and medical advancements.
  • Example 1: In Costa Rica, studying frogs leads to medical breakthroughs.
  • Example 2: In Madagascar, lemurs provide insights into evolutionary biology.
  • Example 3: In Tanzania, chimpanzee research aids understanding of human behaviour.
  • Analysis: These cases illustrate the importance of wildlife for scientific progress and health benefits.

IV. Opposing View 1: Conflict with Human Needs

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife sometimes conflicts with human needs and safety.
  • Example 1: In India, human-tiger conflicts result in fatalities and livestock loss.
  • Example 2: In South Africa, elephants damage crops, impacting farmers’ livelihoods.
  • Example 3: In Australia, sharks pose a risk to swimmers and surfers.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight the challenges of coexisting with wildlife.

V. Opposing View 2: Hindrance to Development

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife conservation can hinder economic development and infrastructure projects.
  • Example 1: In Brazil, protecting the Amazon rainforest limits agricultural expansion.
  • Example 2: In China, preserving pandas restricts urban development in certain areas.
  • Example 3: In Kenya, wildlife reserves sometimes limit land available for housing.
  • Analysis: These instances show how wildlife conservation can conflict with development goals.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value, but it can conflict with human needs and development.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Strive for a balanced approach that values both wildlife conservation and human progress.

Sport is human life in miniature. Discuss.

Sports enthusiasts opine that sports reflects life. Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Sport reflects many elements of human life.
  • Background: Brief overview of sport’s role in society and its symbolic nature.
  • Thesis Statement: Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

II. Supporting View 1: Competition and Struggle

  • Topic Sentence: Sport mirrors the competition and struggle present in human life.
  • Example 1: In the Premier League, teams compete fiercely for the title, reflecting life’s competitive nature.
  • Example 2: The Tour de France requires immense endurance, similar to overcoming life’s challenges.
  • Example 3: In Japan, sumo wrestling showcases the dedication and effort needed to achieve success.
  • Analysis: These examples show how sport reflects life’s competitive and challenging aspects.

III. Supporting View 2: Teamwork and Cooperation

  • Topic Sentence: Sport emphasises the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
  • Example 1: In Spain, FC Barcelona’s “tiki-taka” style relies on teamwork and coordination.
  • Example 2: New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team exemplifies unity and collective effort.
  • Example 3: In Germany, Bayern Munich’s success is attributed to strong team dynamics.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how sport mirrors the collaborative efforts required in life.

IV. Opposing View 1: Oversimplification of Life

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can oversimplify the complexities of human life.
  • Example 1: The intense focus on winning in Indian cricket oversimplifies the nuances of success.
  • Example 2: In Brazilian football, the hero-worship of players ignores the broader societal issues.
  • Example 3: In Russia, the emphasis on athletic achievement overlooks personal and emotional development.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how sport can reduce life’s complexities to mere competition.

V. Opposing View 2: Distortion of Values

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can distort important values and priorities.
  • Example 1: In Italian football, corruption scandals undermine the integrity of the sport.
  • Example 2: The obsession with winning in Chinese gymnastics leads to unethical training practices.
  • Example 3: In Kenyan athletics, doping scandals distort the true spirit of competition.
  • Analysis: These examples demonstrate how sport can sometimes lead to unethical behaviour and distorted values.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Sport reflects many aspects of human life, such as competition and teamwork, but can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Sport is a valuable microcosm of life, but it should be viewed critically to understand its limitations.

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.

In today’s knowledge based economy, what you earn equals what you have learned. Do you agree?

I. Introduction

  • Hook: As the global economy shifts towards valuing knowledge and skills, the correlation between education and earnings becomes increasingly significant.
  • Background: Brief overview of the knowledge-based economy and its emphasis on education and skills.
  • Thesis Statement: In today’s knowledge-based economy, earnings largely depend on one’s education and skills, but other factors such as socio-economic background, networking, and market demand also play crucial roles in determining income.

II. Supporting View 1: Education and Skills Directly Influence Earnings

  • Topic Sentence: Higher education and specialised skills directly correlate with higher earnings in the knowledge-based economy.
  • Example 1: In Germany, individuals with advanced degrees in STEM fields earn significantly higher salaries compared to those with only secondary education.
  • Example 2: In Singapore, the government’s focus on upskilling and continuous education has resulted in higher earnings for professionals in tech and finance sectors.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples demonstrate the clear link between education/skills and earning potential, supporting the argument that what you earn depends on what you have learned.

III. Supporting View 2: Demand for Knowledge and Expertise

  • Topic Sentence: The growing demand for specialised knowledge and expertise further emphasises the link between learning and earning.
  • Example 1: In South Korea, the tech industry’s rapid growth has created a high demand for skilled software developers, leading to lucrative salaries for those with the right qualifications.
  • Example 2: The biotechnology boom in Switzerland has resulted in high-paying jobs for individuals with specialised degrees in biotech and life sciences.
  • Analysis: Examine how these examples illustrate that industries prioritising knowledge and expertise reward individuals with relevant educational backgrounds and skills.

IV. Opposing View 1: Influence of Socio-Economic Background

  • Topic Sentence: Socio-economic background significantly affects earning potential, sometimes outweighing educational achievements.
  • Example 1: In India, socio-economic disparities mean that individuals from privileged backgrounds often have better access to quality education and job opportunities, leading to higher earnings regardless of their skills.
  • Example 2: In the United Kingdom, a report by the Sutton Trust indicates that individuals from affluent families often secure higher-paying jobs through connections and social capital, even if their academic achievements are not exceptional.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples show that socio-economic background can have a substantial impact on earnings, challenging the notion that income is solely dependent on education and skills.

V. Opposing View 2: Role of Networking and Market Demand

  • Topic Sentence: Networking and current market demand for certain professions also play crucial roles in determining earnings.
  • Example 1: In Japan, the tradition of lifelong employment with large corporations often means that networking and company loyalty can lead to higher earnings, sometimes more so than individual qualifications.
  • Example 2: The fluctuating demand in the gig economy, prevalent in many European countries, means that earnings can vary widely regardless of education, with market demand for certain skills dictating income levels.
  • Analysis: Explore how these factors demonstrate that while education is important, other elements such as networking and market dynamics also critically influence earning potential.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While education and skills are crucial determinants of earnings in the knowledge-based economy, socio-economic background, networking, and market demand significantly influence income, suggesting a multifaceted relationship between learning and earning.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
  • Final Thought: Emphasise the importance of recognising and addressing the various factors influencing earnings to create a more equitable and meritocratic economic landscape.

Tourism is unnecessary. To what extent do you agree?

I. Introduction

  • Hook: In the era of climate change and globalisation, the necessity of tourism is increasingly questioned.
  • Background: Brief overview of the tourism industry’s role in the global economy and its environmental and cultural impacts.
  • Thesis Statement: While some argue that tourism is unnecessary due to its environmental impact and cultural commodification, it remains a vital industry that fosters economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding, demonstrating that its benefits outweigh the drawbacks when managed sustainably.

II. Supporting View 1: Environmental Impact

  • Topic Sentence: Critics argue that tourism is unnecessary because it significantly harms the environment.
  • Example 1: The environmental degradation caused by mass tourism in popular destinations like Venice, where over-tourism has led to pollution and the destruction of local ecosystems.
  • Example 2: The carbon footprint of air travel, which contributes to global warming and climate change, as highlighted by studies from organisations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples demonstrate the substantial negative impact of tourism on the environment, supporting the argument that it is unnecessary.

III. Supporting View 2: Cultural Commodification

  • Topic Sentence: Tourism often leads to the commodification of cultures, undermining their authenticity and value.
  • Example 1: The transformation of indigenous practices into tourist attractions, which can strip cultural traditions of their original meaning and context, as seen with the Maasai tribes in Kenya.
  • Example 2: The proliferation of “Disneyfication” in historic cities, where cultural heritage sites are altered to meet tourist expectations, diminishing their historical significance, as observed in cities like Prague.
  • Analysis: Examine how these examples illustrate the cultural costs of tourism, arguing that such commodification diminishes its value.

IV. Opposing View 1: Economic Growth

  • Topic Sentence: Tourism is a critical driver of economic growth and development, particularly in developing countries.
  • Example 1: The economic boom experienced by countries like Thailand, where tourism significantly contributes to GDP, job creation, and infrastructure development.
  • Example 2: The role of tourism in revitalising rural and economically disadvantaged areas, such as the Scottish Highlands, where it supports local businesses and communities.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples highlight the economic benefits of tourism, demonstrating its necessity for economic sustainability.

V. Opposing View 2: Cultural Exchange and Global Understanding

  • Topic Sentence: Tourism promotes cultural exchange and global understanding, fostering peace and mutual respect.
  • Example 1: Educational and cultural exchange programmes, such as study abroad opportunities, which enhance intercultural competence and global awareness among students.
  • Example 2: Community-based tourism initiatives, like those in Costa Rica, which allow tourists to engage with local cultures in meaningful ways, promoting sustainable practices and mutual respect.
  • Analysis: Explore how these examples show the positive impact of tourism on cultural understanding and global cooperation, underscoring its value.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While tourism faces criticisms for its environmental and cultural impacts, its role in driving economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding affirms its necessity, provided it is managed sustainably.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
  • Final Thought: Emphasise the need for sustainable tourism practices that mitigate negative impacts while maximising benefits, ensuring that tourism remains a valuable and necessary part of global society.

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.

Giving people a voice only makes matters worse. What are your views?

While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy, accountability, and social change, suggesting a complex impact.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Free speech is both celebrated and criticised.
  • Background: Overview of the benefits and drawbacks of giving people a voice.
  • Thesis Statement: While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy, accountability, and social change, suggesting a complex impact.

II. Supporting View 1: Conflict and Division

  • Topic Sentence: Giving people a voice can lead to conflict and division.
  • Example 1: In 2016, Brexit debates divided the UK deeply.
  • Example 2: In 2021, protests in Myanmar led to violent clashes after the military coup.
  • Example 3: In 2019, Hong Kong protests caused severe social and political tensions.
  • Analysis: These examples show that free expression can escalate conflicts and divisions.

III. Supporting View 2: Spread of Misinformation

  • Topic Sentence: Free speech can result in the spread of misinformation.
  • Example 1: In 2016, false news about the EU influenced the Brexit referendum in the UK.
  • Example 2: In 2020, false information on COVID-19 spread widely in India, causing panic.
  • Example 3: In 2018, fake news on social media led to lynchings in Indonesia.
  • Analysis: These cases demonstrate how misinformation can worsen situations when people have unchecked freedom of speech.

IV. Opposing View 1: Promotes Democracy

  • Topic Sentence: Giving people a voice promotes democracy and accountability.
  • Example 1: In 2011, the Arab Spring saw citizens demand democratic reforms across the Middle East.
  • Example 2: In 1994, South Africa’s end of apartheid was influenced by voices demanding equality.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Belarus protests called for fair elections and democracy.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how free speech can drive democratic change and accountability.

V. Opposing View 2: Enables Social Change

  • Topic Sentence: Free speech enables significant social change.
  • Example 1: In 2015, Tunisia’s peaceful protests led to a democratic constitution.
  • Example 2: In 2006, the Chilean student protests achieved education reform.
  • Example 3: In 2017, the #MeToo movement spread globally, challenging sexual harassment.
  • Analysis: These instances show that giving people a voice can lead to important social changes.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy and social change, indicating a complex impact.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Balance the benefits and risks of free speech to harness its positive impact.

Discuss the value of beauty in the 21st century.

The 21st century has brought about unique perspectives to the concept of beauty.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: In today’s world, beauty is more than skin deep; it shapes perceptions and opportunities.
  • Background: Brief overview of how beauty standards have evolved and their current status in the 21st century.
  • Thesis Statement: The value of beauty in the 21st century remains significant as it influences personal identity, social interactions, and economic dynamics, despite arguments suggesting that it can perpetuate superficiality and discrimination.

II. Supporting View 1: Influence on Personal Identity

  • Topic Sentence: Beauty plays a crucial role in shaping personal identity and self-esteem in the 21st century.
  • Example 1: The impact of social media influencers on self-perception, such as the rise of body-positive influencers like Ashley Graham.
  • Example 2: The cosmetic industry’s growth, exemplified by the global success of brands like Fenty Beauty, which promotes inclusivity and diversity in beauty standards.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these examples show the importance of beauty in personal empowerment and confidence.

III. Supporting View 2: Economic Dynamics

  • Topic Sentence: The beauty industry significantly contributes to the global economy, reflecting its value in contemporary society.
  • Example 1: The booming beauty and skincare market, with companies like L’Oréal and Estée Lauder generating billions in revenue annually.
  • Example 2: The influence of beauty standards on employment and marketing, as seen in industries like fashion and entertainment where appearance often correlates with success.
  • Analysis: Examine how these economic factors underline the sustained relevance and value of beauty in modern times.

IV. Opposing View 1: Perpetuation of Superficiality

  • Topic Sentence: Critics argue that an emphasis on beauty fosters a culture of superficiality and unrealistic expectations.
  • Example 1: The negative psychological effects of photo-editing apps and filters, leading to issues like body dysmorphia and low self-esteem.
  • Example 2: The proliferation of cosmetic surgeries, such as the rise in procedures among teenagers influenced by social media standards.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these trends suggest that the pursuit of beauty can be harmful, promoting shallow values over substantive qualities.

V. Opposing View 2: Discrimination and Inequality

  • Topic Sentence: The value placed on beauty can lead to discrimination and social inequality.
  • Example 1: Workplace discrimination based on appearance, where attractive individuals are often preferred for jobs and promotions, creating a bias against those who don’t meet conventional beauty standards.
  • Example 2: The beauty bias in media representation, where certain races and body types are underrepresented, perpetuating racial and body-image discrimination.
  • Analysis: Explore how these examples highlight the negative consequences of beauty standards, reinforcing social hierarchies and exclusion.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While beauty holds significant value in the 21st century through its impact on identity, social interactions, and the economy, it also brings challenges such as superficiality and discrimination.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
  • Final Thought: Reflect on the need for a balanced perspective that acknowledges the positive aspects of beauty while addressing its potential drawbacks.