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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is technology fostering or hindering democratic participation?

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Is technology fostering or hindering democratic participation?

Model Answer:

In today's world, the role of technology in shaping democracy is a topic of great debate. Some argue that it has significantly contributed to the expansion and deepening of democratic participation, while others contend that it has had detrimental effects on the quality and inclusiveness of democratic processes. This essay will explore both sides of the argument and provide a conclusion based on the evidence presented.

On one hand, technology has undoubtedly increased accessibility to information and communication channels for citizens. The rise of the internet and social media platforms have enabled people from all walks of life to engage in political discourse and express their views. Online petitions, e-voting, and digital town hall meetings are just a few examples of how technology has facilitated democratic participation. These tools have empowered marginalized groups and given them a platform to voice their concerns and opinions. Moreover, the widespread use of smartphones and internet accessibility in recent years has allowed people in remote areas or with physical disabilities to participate in democratic processes that were previously unreachable for them.

On the other hand, critics argue that technology has also led to a decline in the quality of democratic participation. The rise of social media platforms has given birth to echo chambers, where individuals are exposed only to opinions and viewpoints that align with their own. This phenomenon has polarized societies and created an environment where open dialogue and mutual understanding are scarce. Additionally, the spread of misinformation and fake news through digital channels has eroded trust in institutions and weakened the foundation of democracy. The overreliance on algorithms to curate online content also means that citizens are exposed only to a limited range of perspectives, which could lead to an ill-informed electorate making uninformed decisions during elections.

In conclusion, it is evident that technology has both fostered and hindered democratic participation. While the proliferation of digital platforms has increased accessibility and provided marginalized groups with a voice, it has also contributed to the polarization of societies and the erosion of trust in institutions. As such, it is essential for policymakers and tech companies to work together to harness the potential of technology while minimizing its negative impacts on democracy. The future of democratic participation will largely depend on how effectively we can strike a balance between these two contrasting effects of technology.

Band Score: 8.0

The model answer is written in a clear and coherent manner, with a strong introduction to the topic and a balanced presentation of both sides of the argument. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and presents a logical stance on the issue. Overall, the language used is sophisticated and demonstrates a high level of competence in English, which would be deserving of an IELTS band score of 8.0.

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