Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

People have different views about how governments should measure their countries' progress.

While

economic progress is of course essential, I agree with those who believe that other measures of progress are just as important. There are three key reasons why economic growth is seen as a fundamental goal for countries.

Firstly

, a healthy economy results in job creation, a high level of employment, and better salaries for citizens.

Secondly

, economic growth ensures that more money is available for governments to spend on infrastructure and public services.

For example

, a government with higher revenues can invest in the

country

's transportation network, its education system and its hospitals.

Finally

, a strong economy can help a

country

's standing on the global stage, in terms of its political influence and trading power.

However

, I would argue that various other forms of improvement are just as significant as the economic factors mentioned above.

In particular

, we should consider the areas of social justice, human rights, equality and democracy itself.

For example

, the treatment of minority groups is often seen as a reflection of the moral standards and level of development of a society. Perhaps another key consideration when judging the development of a modern

country

should be how well that

country

protects the natural environment, and whether it is moving towards environmental sustainability. Alternatively, the success of a nation could be measured by looking at the health, well-being and happiness of its residents. In conclusion, the economy is obviously a key maker of a

country

's success, but social, environmental and health criteria are equally significant.