GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 352
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people say that now is the best time in history to be living.
What is your opinion about this?
what other time in history would be interesting to live in?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Opinion: We are living in the best time in history.]
The idea that we are currently living in the best time in history is a topic of debate among many people. Some individuals believe that the world has never been better in terms of health, technology, and overall standard of living, while others argue that despite all these advancements, we are in no way living in the best time in history. In this essay, I will argue that we are indeed blessed to be living in the best time in known history. I will also highlight other periods of history that would be interesting to live in.
In modern times, we have made incredible progress in technology, medicine, and social issues, which have improved the quality of life for many people around the world. Access to healthcare and education has become more widespread, and the Internet has opened up opportunities for communication and collaboration on a global scale. Despite some ongoing challenges, such as climate change and social inequality, we are making strides towards a better future. We are no longer at the mercy of natural calamities and we have medicines and vaccines to fight deadly diseases. These were unimaginable in the past.
In my opinion, there are other periods of history that would be interesting to live in. For example, the Renaissance period in Europe saw a great flourishing of art, science, and culture. It would have been fascinating to witness the works of artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci firsthand and to experience the excitement of new discoveries in science and philosophy. Similarly, the 1960s in America was a time of significant social and cultural change, with the civil rights movement and the rise of rock and roll music.
In conclusion, while there are certainly other periods of history that would be interesting to live in, I believe that now is the best time to be living. We have made great strides in many areas and continue to make progress towards a better future.
Sample Answer 2: [We are NOT living in the best time in history]
While some argue that the present is the best time to be alive, I believe that there are several reasons why this is not the case. While we may have access to modern technology and conveniences, there are still many pressing issues that make it difficult to say that we are living in the best era.
Firstly, despite advances in medicine and healthcare, there are still numerous diseases and illnesses that cannot be cured. Even with modern treatments and medications, there are still millions of people who suffer from chronic conditions that greatly affect their quality of life. In addition, mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent in society, which can be just as debilitating as physical illnesses. Secondly, while technology has made life easier in many ways, it has also led to many negative consequences. Social media and other forms of technology have made it easier to communicate, but they have also contributed to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
I believe that the Golden Age of Athens, which occurred from 460 to 404 BCE, would be a great time to live in. This was a time of great achievements in art, philosophy, science, and politics. It was a time when Athens was a centre of intellectual and cultural life, and many great thinkers and artists emerged. In contrast to the present time, the people of Athens during the Golden Age lived in a more simplistic manner, without modern technology and advancements. However, the period was marked by intellectual and cultural achievements that have stood the test of time.
In conclusion, while many people believe that now is the best time in history to be living, I believe that there have been other periods throughout history that would be just as interesting to live in, such as the Golden Age of Athens. It is important to recognize the achievements and cultural advancements of previous times and to appreciate the contributions they have made to our present society.