IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is society becoming more or less responsive to public opinion?
IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1710633243
Task 2 Topic: "Is society becoming more or less responsive to public opinion?"
Model Answer:
In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on the role of public opinion in shaping societal decisions and policies. This essay will argue that society is indeed becoming more responsive to public opinion due to advancements in communication technology and increased awareness of social issues. However, it will also discuss potential drawbacks, such as the risk of manipulation by powerful groups and the possibility of groupthink. Ultimately, it can be concluded that while there have been improvements in societal responsiveness to public opinion, much work remains to be done in order to ensure that all voices are heard and respected.
In the modern world, communication technology has revolutionized the way information is disseminated and consumed. With social media platforms and digital news outlets at our fingertips, it has become easier than ever for individuals to express their thoughts and opinions on a wide range of topics. As a result, public opinion can now have a significant impact on decision-making processes and policies. For example, grassroots movements such as #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have gained substantial traction through social media, leading to widespread awareness and action against issues like sexual harassment and racial injustice.
Moreover, increased awareness of social issues has led to a growing demand for transparency and accountability from institutions and governments. This heightened scrutiny means that policymakers are increasingly required to consider public sentiment when making decisions. For instance, the recent push for stricter environmental regulations and climate change mitigation measures can be attributed in part to the growing concern among citizens about the impact of human activity on the environment.
However, it is important to note that there are potential pitfalls associated with an over-reliance on public opinion. One major concern is the risk of manipulation by powerful groups or individuals who may use their resources and influence to shape public discourse in a manner that serves their own interests. This phenomenon can lead to skewed perspectives on important issues, ultimately undermining the democratic process.
Additionally, there is a risk of groupthink when society becomes too responsive to public opinion. Groupthink occurs when conformity to popular opinions leads to the suppression of dissenting viewpoints and stifles critical thinking. This can result in poor decision-making that does not adequately address the complexities of an issue. For example, a focus on populist policies may lead to short-term gains at the expense of long-term consequences.
In conclusion, while society has made progress in becoming more responsive to public opinion due to advancements in communication technology and increased awareness of social issues, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed. Ensuring that public opinion is accurately represented and not manipulated by powerful groups, as well as fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged, will be crucial in moving towards a more equitable and responsive society.
Overall
Score:
Band 8
The model answer provides a comprehensive analysis of the topic, addressing both the positive aspects (technological advancements, increased awareness) and negative aspects (risk of manipulation, groupthink). The essay is well-structured, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that support the argument, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points. While there are some grammar errors, they do not significantly impact the clarity or coherence of the writing.
Overall, this model answer would likely receive a
Band 8 score on the IELTS Writing Task 2.
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