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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should cultural appropriation be regulated by law?

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Task 2 Writing Topic:Should cultural appropriation be regulated by law?

Model Answer:

Cultural appropriation is a contentious issue that has sparked debates among various groups of people. Some argue that it is an infringement on the rights and dignity of marginalized communities, while others maintain that it encourages cross-cultural understanding and respect. This essay will discuss both perspectives and provide reasons as to why cultural appropriation should indeed be regulated by law.

Firstly, one of the primary arguments in favor of legal regulation is the protection of intellectual property rights. Cultural elements, such as music, art, and traditional practices, belong to a specific group or community. When these are copied or adopted without permission or credit, it amounts to theft. For instance, when a non-Native American designs and sells clothing items inspired by Native American patterns, they benefit financially from the appropriation of another culture's artistic expression. Regulating cultural appropriation would ensure that individuals respect the rights of others, just as they are expected to do with tangible property or copyrighted works.

Secondly, legal regulation can prevent the commercial exploitation and degradation of indigenous cultures. Many cultural practices and traditions have been co-opted by dominant societies for profit without acknowledging their origins. For example, yoga, a centuries-old spiritual practice from India, has been transformed into a billion-dollar industry in Western countries. Regulating the appropriation of such practices would ensure that the original culture benefits from the commercialization and that it is respected rather than exploited.

Moreover, legal regulation can help to counteract racial and cultural discrimination. Cultural appropriation often occurs in conjunction with stereotypes and negative portrayals of minority cultures. For instance, the "geisha girl" costume at a Halloween party perpetuates the Orientalist fantasy of Asia as an exotic and mysterious place. Regulating cultural appropriation would discourage such harmful practices, fostering a more inclusive and respectful society.

Despite these compelling arguments, critics argue that legal regulation could hinder cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. While this is a valid concern, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine appreciation and exploitation. Education and awareness campaigns can help people understand the nuances of cultural appropriation and foster mutual respect without infringing on anyone's rights.

In conclusion, regulating cultural appropriation by law would safeguard intellectual property rights, prevent the commercial exploitation of indigenous cultures, and combat racial and cultural discrimination. While there may be concerns about stifling cross-cultural understanding, awareness and education are key to ensuring respect without infringement.

Task 2 Writing Score:

Overall, this essay effectively presents arguments both for and against the regulation of cultural appropriation by law. The writer provides clear explanations and relevant examples to support their position. While the essay could have benefited from a slightly more nuanced analysis of potential drawbacks, it remains coherent, well-structured, and engaging throughout. Based on these factors, this essay would likely receive a Band Score of 8 in an IELTS Writing Test.

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