A person’s worth nowadays seems to be judged according to social status and material possessions. Old-fashioned values, such as honor, kindness and trust, no longer seem important. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

It is often argued that, with the advent of urbanization and rise in economic standards, people are now no longer influenced by moral values. Personally, I am strongly convinced with
this
view. In my opinion, many people around the world now associate wealth with social prestige. In
this
essay, I shall examine a number of studies to justify the presented viewpoint.
To begin
with, ever since the recent industrial revolution, television and mass media have played a crucial role in shaping our society. Media often portrait wealthy people as a significant role model, their assets and lifestyle are displayed as the symbol of luxury and success. Owning to
this
, a majority of the world’s population, is now convinced that, a person’s worth in society is now a measure of the owned assets. In order to achieve
this
fake sense of superiority, many people often buy products which are far above their affordable range.
As a result
, a majority of the world's population is overwhelmed by financial debts.
For example
, a recent study published by Oxford University illustrated that, people with financial restrictions and lower living standards, often feels isolated from their society and are more likely to experience mental distress.
In addition
, many people often commit serious criminal offence
such
as credit card fraud, corruption, in order to keep up with the high profile lifestyles.
This
is borne out by a study conducted by the University of Melbourne which demonstrated that, more than 50% of credit card frauds committed are the result of their need to keep up with higher social standards In conclusion, from the above stated reasoning, I am inclined to say that, people no longer value moral characteristic rather they are more fascinated by wealth.
Submitted by gknaruto608 on

Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Writing9 with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Fully explain your ideas

To get an excellent score in the IELTS Task 2 writing section, one of the easiest and most effective tips is structuring your writing in the most solid format. A great argument essay structure may be divided to four paragraphs, in which comprises of four sentences (excluding the conclusion paragraph, which comprises of three sentences).

For we to consider an essay structure a great one, it should be looking like this:

  • Paragraph 1 - Introduction
    • Sentence 1 - Background statement
    • Sentence 2 - Detailed background statement
    • Sentence 3 - Thesis
    • Sentence 4 - Outline sentence
  • Paragraph 2 - First supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 3 - Second supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 4 - Conclusion
    • Sentence 1 - Summary
    • Sentence 2 - Restatement of thesis
    • Sentence 3 - Prediction or recommendation

Our recommended essay structure above comprises of fifteen (15) sentences, which will make your essay approximately 250 to 275 words.

Read more in the eBook

The Ultimate Guide to Get a Target Band Score of 7+ »

* free ebook for Premium users

Topic Vocabulary:
  • Materialism
  • Social status
  • Old-fashioned values
  • Honor
  • Kindness
  • Integrity
  • Consumerism
  • Superficiality
  • Ephemeral
  • Philanthropy
  • Prosperity
  • Altruism
  • Narcissism
  • Humility
  • Empathy
  • Ethics
  • Moral compass
  • Minimalist
  • Contentment
  • Material possessions
  • Status symbol
  • Wealth disparity
  • Moral bankruptcy
What to do next:
Look at other essays: