Countries with a long average working time are more economically successful, but they are also likely to suffer from negative social consequences. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is often argued that
countries
where people work longer
hours
tend to be more economically prosperous but face significant social problems. I completely disagree with
this
assertion because economic
success
is influenced by multiple factors beyond working
hours
, and social
issues
can arise in any country regardless of its economic status. Proponents of the idea that longer working
hours
lead to economic
growth
might highlight the role of
labor
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labour
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in boosting productivity. Indeed,
labor
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labour
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is crucial in transforming raw materials into finished goods and services, which significantly contribute to a country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In
this
context, longer working
hours
might seem to correlate with greater prosperity.
For example
, China, known for its extensive manufacturing output, has seen rapid GDP
growth
and is now considered an economic powerhouse.
However
, it is essential to recognize that China’s
success
is not solely
due to
long working
hours
. The skills and knowledge of the workforce play a vital role in developing new technologies and processes, enhancing efficiency and global competitiveness.
On the other hand
, many African
countries
also
have long working
hours
but do not experience similar economic
growth
due to
a lack of diverse skill sets and infrastructure.
This
demonstrates that
while
working
hours
contribute to economic activity, they are not the sole determinant of economic
success
; the quality and skills of the
labor
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labour
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force are crucial. Regarding the link between economic
growth
and social problems, it is true that
countries
where economic prosperity is achieved through long working
hours
might face certain social
issues
,
such
as stress and mental health problems.
For instance
, individuals in affluent
countries
may suffer from stress and anxiety
due to
demanding work environments.
However
, these
issues
are not unique to economically successful nations and can be even more serious in low-income
countries
.
This
sheds light on why I believe that a developed economy should not be blamed for social consequences.
Furthermore
, the economic benefits,
such
as higher living standards and reduced crime and unemployment rates, can outweigh the drawbacks. Economic prosperity allows for better healthcare, education, and social services, which can mitigate many social
issues
.
Therefore
,
while
there are potential negative consequences of long working
hours
, the
overall
impact of economic
growth
is more beneficial. In conclusion, I completely disagree with the notion that
countries
with longer working
hours
are necessarily more economically successful and are bound to face negative social consequences. Economic
success
depends on a combination of factors, including the skills and quality of the workforce. The advantages of economic
growth
often surpass the potential drawbacks, making it a complex yet generally positive outcome.
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Topic Vocabulary:
  • Average working time
  • Economically successful
  • Negative social consequences
  • Employee burnout
  • Competitive edge
  • Global markets
  • Consumer spending
  • Productivity
  • Work-life balance
  • Mental health issues
  • Community ties
  • Societal well-being
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