Society Archives

History has shown us that crime never pays. Do you agree?

While history often demonstrates that crime does not pay in the long run, there are instances where criminals have benefited from their actions, suggesting a more complex reality.

I. Introduction

Hook: The saying “crime never pays” is widely believed.
Background: Brief overview of historical examples of crime and their outcomes.
Thesis Statement: While history often demonstrates that crime does not pay in the long run, there are instances where criminals have benefited from their actions, suggesting a more complex reality.

II. Supporting View 1: Punishment and Justice

Topic Sentence: Historical examples show that criminals often face severe punishment.
Example 1: In 1989, Nicolae Ceaușescu, the Romanian dictator, was executed after his regime’s crimes were exposed.
Example 2: In 2013, Italian Mafia boss Domenico Raccuglia was arrested and sentenced to life in prison.
Example 3: In 2009, Bernard Madoff, though American, faced global repercussions for his Ponzi scheme, showing the reach of justice.
Analysis: These examples illustrate that crime often leads to punishment and downfall.

III. Supporting View 2: Loss of Reputation and Power

Topic Sentence: Criminals often lose their reputation and power, showing that crime does not pay.
Example 1: In 2011, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was imprisoned for corruption and abuse of power.
Example 2: In 1992, former East German leader Erich Honecker was prosecuted for human rights abuses.
Example 3: In 2018, former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak faced charges for the 1MDB scandal.
Analysis: These cases demonstrate that crime often results in the loss of power and respect.

IV. Opposing View 1: Short-Term Gains

Topic Sentence: Some criminals benefit from their actions in the short term.
Example 1: In 1994, Russian oligarchs amassed wealth during the chaotic privatisation period.
Example 2: In the 1980s, Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar built an empire and gained immense power before his downfall.
Example 3: In 2007, British art thief Leonardo Notarbartolo managed a massive diamond heist in Belgium.
Analysis: These examples show that crime can lead to significant short-term gains.

V. Opposing View 2: Criminal Success Stories

Topic Sentence: Some criminals avoid punishment and retain their gains.
Example 1: In 1980, former Ugandan dictator Idi Amin lived in exile in Saudi Arabia without facing justice.
Example 2: In 2001, former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori fled to Japan and avoided immediate prosecution.
Example 3: In 2010, Indian businessman Lalit Modi fled to the UK to avoid corruption charges and maintained a comfortable life.
Analysis: These instances suggest that some criminals escape justice and enjoy their gains.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While history often shows that crime does not pay, there are exceptions where criminals benefit.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Crime’s consequences are complex, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of justice.

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.

Technology has made us lazy. Discuss.

Supporting View 1: Technology has reduced physical activity and encouraged sedentary lifestyles.

Examples:

The rise of food delivery apps in the UK has led to a decrease in people cooking at home.
Japanese youth increasingly prefer indoor, tech-based activities over outdoor sports and recreation.
In Australia, excessive screen time has been linked to rising obesity rates among children.

Supporting View 2: Technology has diminished our cognitive efforts and problem-solving skills.

Examples:

British schools report a decline in mental arithmetic skills due to calculator reliance.
German employers note a decrease in job applicants’ ability to perform simple tasks without digital aids.
Indian parents express concern over children’s reduced creativity, attributing it to increased tablet use.

Opposing View 1: Technology has enabled greater productivity and efficiency in various sectors.

Examples:

American farmers use GPS-guided machinery to optimise crop yields and reduce labour.
South Korean hospitals employ robotic assistants to enhance surgical precision and patient care.
Swedish companies implement remote work technologies, improving work-life balance for employees.

Opposing View 2: Technology has facilitated access to information and learning opportunities.

Examples:

Rural African communities access education through mobile learning platforms, bridging educational gaps.
Chinese language learners use AI-powered apps to practise speaking with virtual tutors.
European museums offer virtual tours, making art and history accessible to global audiences

Young people today have little to no skills to meet the challenges of the future. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In an ever-evolving world, the readiness of today’s youth to face future challenges is a topic of heated debate.
Background: Brief overview of the skills traditionally deemed necessary for future success and the changing landscape of required competencies.
Thesis Statement: While some argue that young people today lack the necessary skills to meet future challenges due to deficiencies in traditional education and life skills, others believe that the adaptability, technological proficiency, and innovative thinking of the younger generation equip them well for the future.

II. Supporting View 1: Deficiencies in Traditional Education

Topic Sentence: The current education system often fails to equip young people with essential skills needed for future challenges.
Example 1: A study by the National Center for Education Statistics showing declining scores in critical thinking and problem-solving among high school students in the U.S. and Europe.
Example 2: Employers’ frequent complaints about graduates lacking basic skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples highlight the shortcomings of the traditional education system in preparing students for the real world.

III. Supporting View 2: Lack of Life Skills

Topic Sentence: Many young people today are deficient in basic life skills that are crucial for future success.
Example 1: The increasing reliance on technology for simple tasks, leading to a decline in practical skills such as cooking, financial management, and basic repairs.
Example 2: The rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people, often linked to a lack of coping mechanisms and emotional resilience.
Analysis: Examine how these trends suggest that young people may struggle to navigate everyday challenges and maintain mental well-being.

IV. Opposing View 1: Technological Proficiency and Adaptability

Topic Sentence: Young people today possess high levels of technological proficiency and adaptability, which are crucial for future challenges.
Example 1: The success of young entrepreneurs in the tech industry, such as Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, who have revolutionized their fields through innovation.
Example 2: The rapid adoption and adaptation to new technologies, such as the widespread use of coding skills and digital literacy among teenagers and young adults.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate the younger generation’s readiness to thrive in a tech-driven future.

V. Opposing View 2: Innovative Thinking and Problem-Solving

Topic Sentence: The younger generation’s innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities prepare them well for future challenges.
Example 1: The rise of social movements led by young activists, such as Greta Thunberg with climate change and Malala Yousafzai with education, showcasing leadership and advocacy skills.
Example 2: The development of groundbreaking solutions to global issues by young inventors, like Boyan Slat’s ocean cleanup project.
Analysis: Explore how these initiatives demonstrate young people’s capacity to tackle complex problems with creativity and determination.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While concerns about deficiencies in traditional education and life skills are valid, the adaptability, technological proficiency, and innovative thinking of young people indicate that they are well-prepared to meet future challenges.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasize the importance of fostering both traditional and modern skills in education to ensure a well-rounded preparation for future challenges.

We are too greedy for our own good. Is this reflective of your society?

Greed is a concept which suggests that one consumes or takes more than what is required. Survivalists support the concept of greed, stating that it is a practical solution in today’s world. There are others who believe that greed is immoral and selfish. Die-hard Singaporeans will swear that greediness runs deep in Singapore. It can be said that some segments in society are greedier than others but greediness is not rampant in Singapore. In fact, there are measures in place to counter the detrimental effects of greed within Singapore.

Greed is a natural human tendency, but some people take it further than needed. Dr Tan Gek Young sold more than 2300 litres of cough syrup to drug abusers just for profit-making. His actions proved that greed to earn extra money was more important than the lives of his patients. Similarly, the Sim Lim Square incident clearly shows the greediness of Mobile Air owner Jover Chew who sold phones at a higher rate to a Vietnamese tourist. Such incidents portray Singapore as an overindulgent society where people care to serve only their self-interests. Thus, greed can be seen in some sections of society where people care about profit more than morality.

It is well documented that the majority of Singaporeans have a kiasu mentality. They believe that having more is better than less. This is especially true in the case of educational qualifications. Singaporeans develop a high level of competitiveness for getting into reputed universities and polytechnics. However, chasing good educational qualifications is not a bad thing as it is a stepping stone towards success. This mentality of getting top grades from top universities is normalised in Singapore. Thus, it is clear that greed is considered normal even in educational achievement.

Success comes at a price. The cost of living is high in Singapore compared to other Asian countries. This also leads to materialistic tendencies in the population. Owning houses in private condominiums and driving luxurious cars are seen as status symbols. The rich are revered in society and are appreciated and admired for the wealth they have accumulated. Pragmatism which is taught at a very young age to children makes them believe that being wealthy translates into happiness. The idea of being rich and successful is a constant motivation for being greedy. However, it is not all that bad because it shows that Singaporeans are more aware of their financial goals and strive to improve their situation. Thus, being greedy to achieve financial goals is not bad until it has detrimental effects on society.

However, on the flip side, there are also counter-measures being taken within the Singaporean society to tackle the issue of greed. Government has been very helpful in assisting people who take care of the elderly in their homes. Singapore is a welfare-oriented oriented nation today compared to earlier times. Moreover, businesses today are also committed to bring change within society. For example, Boxgreen Singapore, a snacking company, donates a portion of the proceeds from the sold snacks, to provide meals for the needy. In this way, they allow compassion to dominate greediness. Moreover, they not only help the poor but are also mindful about the environment and use recyclable packaging. The growth of such assistance policies and businesses show people within the society an alternate way of living, which is filled with empathy and compassion. Therefore, even though greed is prevalent in the Singaporean society there are counter-measures in place to tackle the issue.

Any modern metropolis will have its share of greed. This factor is inbuilt in capitalists systems. So, greed is evident in the Singaporean society in various sections. In education, businesses and even in individuals. However, to balance out the situation there are private and government entities that play an important role in countering these issues. Singaporeans pragmatism leads them to be greedy in some areas however, they are not too greedy for their own good.

Technology has had a negative impact on people’s skills? Discuss.

Without a doubt, technology has majorly impacted skills of people in the world. While the progress of technology is important, people should be careful in not being overly-reliant on it.

Human beings have always discovered and invented devices and machines for their convenience. Today, technology has taken an important place in people’s life and has made their lives easier. However, with technology, there are also problems that have risen. Machines which were created for helping humans, have made humans lazy, unskilled and redundant. Today people are overly-reliant on technology. Though many skills have been replaced by technology, there are new skills which have gained prominence today. Hence, technology has a negative impact on people’s skills.

Automation has led people to lack many skills and has caused their role to minimise in many industries. In manufacturing, from making the dough for different cookies, to cutting them in different shapes and packing them, all tasks are now performed by machines and robots. In aviation, pilots use the auto-pilot function and use electronic interface to control the flight. The pilot’s role today is limited and skills required to become a pilot have reduced significantly. With so much being done by machines, it is a logical conclusion technology has a negative impact on people’s skills.

New and advanced technology has attracted people to games that involve virtual reality and advanced graphics. Unlike earlier times, where people, especially children took time to go out and play sports like cricket, badminton or swimming, children today are glued to their Playstation, X-box, computer screens and mobile games. In today’s times it is getting difficult to find young players who are genuinely interested in playing sports as opposed to just playing sports for fame and money. Technology has given rise to new forms of sports as e-sports but these sports are not considered as sports by many because, who play these sports do not have great skills and are of little value in the real world. While playing real sports like football and tennis may build character and give one confidence, electronic sports do not provide any such benefit. Therefore, technology has also had an impact in sports creating a negative impact on people’s skills.

Technology has also impacted people’s soft skills and communication skills. Smartphones have given people a platform to connect with people from across the world however, people have lost their ability to communicate with people with mindfully and articulately. This is evident from the chat language people use in their daily communication. For example, using just “gn” for good night, “tc” for take care and “gbu” for god bless you. Similarly, people’s friendships today are limited to the extent of liking and commenting on a picture. It can thus be said that the art of communication has been lost significantly in present times. Applications like Twitter, have given people a stage to put forth their view but it has also made them intolerant towards other people’s views. People today are quick in jumping to conclusions and make their judgements based on limited facts, which sometimes are even fake. It can be said that technology has made people lose their reasoning skills and degraded human relationships, in turn. Therefore, technology has also had a negative impact on people’s skills and the ability to communicate rationally.

Though supporters of technology often say that people have replaced older skills with newer skills. They argue that people today are more well-versed in technology-based applications. However, these skills are not as intricate and lack in finesse as well. In earlier times people used to create handicrafts and painting with hand but with technology all that has changed. Skills like stitching, embroidering, fact-checking and map reading are being forgotten in our technological driven world.

Without a doubt, technology has majorly impacted skills of people in the world. While the progress of technology is important, people should be careful in not being overly-reliant on it. Over-reliance on technology will only lead to deterioration of people’s skills be it in the field of labour, communication or social interaction. Technology has had a negative impact on the skills of people.