Most countries aim to improve their standard of living through economic development, but many important social values can be lost as a result. Do the advantages of economic development outweigh the disadvantages?

Economic
development
is often pursued by countries to improve the standard of living, providing better access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities.
However
,
this
progress can come at the expense of important social
values
.
While
the benefits of economic
development
are significant, the loss of social
values
raises important concerns about the long-term impact on society. One major advantage of economic
development
is the improvement in quality of life. With increased economic growth, countries can invest more in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, leading to better living conditions for their citizens.
Additionally
, economic
development
can reduce poverty and unemployment, providing more people with the means to support themselves and their families. These improvements are crucial for the
overall
well-being of society.
However
, economic
development
often brings about changes that can erode traditional social
values
. As societies become more focused on material wealth and individual success,
values
such
as community solidarity, family ties, and cultural traditions can weaken.
For example
, urbanization, a common consequence of economic growth, often leads to the disintegration of close-knit communities and the loss of cultural practices that are important to social identity.
Moreover
, the pursuit of economic success can create work-life imbalances, where people prioritize careers over personal relationships, leading to increased stress and a decline in social cohesion. In conclusion,
while
economic
development
undoubtedly brings numerous benefits, the potential loss of social
values
should not be overlooked. It is essential for countries to find a balance between economic growth and the preservation of social
values
to ensure sustainable
development
that enhances both material and social well-being.
Submitted by sarahfahadliv 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.

task achievement
Your essay provides a complete response to the prompt and covers both advantages and disadvantages of economic development. However, adding more specific examples and evidence can strengthen your arguments and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topic.
coherence and cohesion
The essay is logically structured with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph deals with a single main idea, which helps maintain coherence. However, you can enhance cohesion by using more varied linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.
coherence and cohesion
Your essay has a clear and effective introduction and conclusion, which help frame your arguments well.
task achievement
You effectively discuss both sides of the argument, demonstrating a balanced perspective on the issue.
task achievement
Your ideas are clear and easy to understand, which helps convey your arguments effectively.

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.

You are not ready for IELTS Speaking, if you

  • Can’t speak smoothly without pauses.
  • Use simple words and lack vocabulary.
  • Feel nervous and anxious when speaking.
Topic Vocabulary:
  • standard of living
  • economic development
  • quality of life
  • infrastructure
  • healthcare
  • education
  • job opportunities
  • unemployment
  • poverty
  • technological advancements
  • innovation
  • traditional cultural values
  • social bonds
  • material wealth
  • consumerism
  • social inequality
  • environmental conservation
  • wealth gap
  • vulnerable groups
What to do next:
Look at other essays:

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!