In many countries, a small number of people earn extremely high salaries. Some people believe that this is good for the country, but others think that governments should not allow salaries above a certain level. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

In many countries around the world, a small segment of the population commands exorbitant
salaries
that far surpass the earnings of the average citizen.
This
phenomenon has sparked a contentious debate, with some advocating for the free market's ability to reward merit and drive economic growth,
while
others argue for government intervention to address
income
inequality
. In
this
essay, we will explore both perspectives on the issue of high
salaries
and examine the implications for society. On one hand, proponents of high
salaries
argue that they serve as a catalyst for economic prosperity. They contend that the promise of lucrative rewards incentivizes individuals to work hard, innovate, and take risks. In a competitive global market, where talent is highly sought after, offering high
salaries
can attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, driving innovation and stimulating economic growth.
Moreover
, proponents of high
salaries
often cite the principles of meritocracy, asserting that individuals who contribute more value to their companies or industries deserve to be rewarded commensurately.
However
, the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few comes with its own set of challenges and criticisms. Detractors argue that extreme
income
inequality
exacerbates social divisions and undermines societal cohesion. When a small elite amasses vast fortunes
while
large segments of the population struggle to make ends meet, it breeds resentment and erodes trust in institutions.
Moreover
, the allocation of resources towards exorbitant
salaries
at the expense of essential services
such
as education, healthcare, and infrastructure exacerbates societal disparities and impedes progress towards achieving social justice.
Furthermore
, critics of high
salaries
highlight the lack of accountability and transparency in executive compensation practices. In many cases, executives receive lavish bonuses and perks regardless of their performance or ethical conduct, leading to a sense of entitlement and fostering a culture of impunity.
This
disparity between executive compensation and average worker wages not only undermines morale within organizations but
also
erodes public trust in the fairness of the economic system. In light of these competing perspectives, finding a balance between incentivizing success and ensuring equitable distribution of resources is paramount.
While
high
salaries
may serve as a driver of economic growth and innovation, unchecked
income
inequality
poses significant risks to societal stability and cohesion.
Therefore
, it is essential for governments to implement policies that promote fairness and address the root causes of
income
inequality
,
such
as progressive taxation, minimum wage regulations, and investments in education and social welfare programs. In conclusion, the debate over high
salaries
reflects broader tensions between the principles of free-market capitalism and the imperative of social justice.
While
high
salaries
can incentivize productivity and innovation, they
also
contribute to widening
income
inequality
and social unrest. By carefully considering the competing interests at play and implementing targeted policy interventions, societies can strive to strike a balance between rewarding merit and promoting economic equity. Ultimately, the pursuit of a fair and prosperous society requires a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding
income
distribution and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities.

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.

task response
To achieve an even higher score, try to incorporate more specific examples or statistics to support your arguments. For example, mentioning specific countries where high salaries have driven innovation or cases where income inequality has led to social unrest would make your essay more compelling.
coherence cohesion
While your ideas are clearly expressed and organized well, you could improve the essay by connecting some of the paragraphs more fluidly. Using transition phrases (e.g., 'Furthermore,' 'Additionally,' 'On the other hand'), can help ensure the essay reads smoothly from one point to the next.
introduction conclusion present
The essay has a clear and effective introduction and conclusion, framing the discussion well.
complete response
Your essay provides a comprehensive exploration of both sides of the issue. You effectively weigh the benefits of high salaries against the downside of income inequality.
logical structure
Your points are well-supported and logically structured. Each paragraph flows into the next, creating a coherent argument throughout the essay.

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.

Discover more tips in The Ultimate Guide to Get a Target Band Score of 7+ »— a book that's free for 🚀 Premium users.

Essentional vocabulary list for IELTS Writing 7+

Learn how to write high-scoring essays with powerful words.
Download Free PDF and start improving you writing skills today!
Topic Vocabulary:
  • incentivize
  • discrepancy
  • inequality
  • social cohesion
  • equitable distribution
  • wealth concentration
  • talent retention
  • global competitiveness
  • social unrest
  • innovate
  • government intervention
  • salary cap
What to do next:
Look at other essays: