IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss whether society is becoming more or less responsive to public opinion, and provide relevant examples from a specific country or region to support your viewpoint.
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Task: Discuss whether society is becoming more or less responsive to public opinion, and provide relevant examples from a specific country or region to support your viewpoint.
Model Answer:
In recent years, there has been an increasing debate on whether society is becoming more or less responsive to public opinion. While some argue that the rise of social media and digital platforms has made it easier for individuals to voice their opinions and influence decisions, others contend that power remains concentrated in the hands of a select few, rendering public opinion relatively inconsequential. This essay will analyze this topic by examining the role of technology in shaping public discourse and providing examples from the United States to support the argument that society is indeed becoming more responsive to public opinion.
The advent of social media and digital platforms has significantly transformed the way public opinion is formed and disseminated. Through these channels, individuals can express their views on a wide range of topics, from politics to corporate practices. For instance, the Black Lives Matter movement gained significant traction after protests erupted across the United States in 2020, sparking widespread conversations about systemic racism and police brutality. This societal response was fueled by the rapid spread of information and personal narratives on social media, leading to an increased awareness and demand for change.
Furthermore, the rise of digital platforms has also facilitated greater transparency and accountability in political and corporate spheres. The Watergate scandal in the United States is a prime example of this phenomenon. Following the revelation that President Richard Nixon's administration had engaged in illegal activities, public outrage led to his resignation in 1974. More recently, numerous high-profile companies have faced scrutiny and backlash due to their perceived lack of responsibility or ethical practices, such as the case with Facebook and its handling of user data. In both instances, public opinion played a significant role in shaping the outcome, demonstrating an increasing responsiveness within society.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all segments of society are equally influenced by public opinion. For example, powerful political figures or corporations may have more control over media outlets and platforms, thereby skewing public discourse in their favor. Additionally, the impact of public opinion may be less pronounced in regions where free speech is restricted or suppressed. The United States has experienced a polarization of media, with individuals increasingly turning to sources that align with their pre-existing beliefs, thereby creating an echo chamber effect. This phenomenon can limit the true extent to which public opinion influences societal change.
In conclusion, while society's responsiveness to public opinion is undoubtedly evolving due to advancements in technology and digital platforms, it is crucial to recognize that not all segments of society are equally influenced by this shift. By examining specific examples from the United States, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and Watergate scandal, it becomes evident that public opinion plays a growing role in shaping societal outcomes. However, it is also important to acknowledge the potential pitfalls of a polarized media landscape and the ongoing struggle for free speech, which may limit the extent to which public opinion can drive change.
Overall, this essay demonstrates an understanding of the topic (Task Response:
Band 9), effective use of relevant examples from a specific country (Coherence and Cohesion:
Band 8), and the ability to critically analyze both sides of the argument (Language:
Band 8). Thus, the overall score for this essay would be
Band 8.
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