Technology ethics has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent tests. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, questions about government regulation of technology are particularly prevalent. This topic intersects with The ethical concerns of using AI in surveillance and other emerging technologies.
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Let’s examine a recent IELTS Task 2 question:
Some people believe that governments should strictly control and regulate the development of artificial intelligence, while others think that free development of AI will benefit humanity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: Government regulation of AI development
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Key elements to address:
- Arguments for strict government control
- Arguments for free AI development
- Personal stance
Government regulation versus free development of AI
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over government control of artificial intelligence development presents valid arguments on both sides, though I believe a balanced approach combining oversight with innovation is optimal.
Proponents of strict government regulation argue that unrestricted AI development poses significant risks to society. Without proper controls, AI systems could be deployed without adequate safety testing or ethical considerations, potentially leading to job displacement, privacy violations, or even existential threats to humanity. Similar to Should governments regulate the use of AI in warfare?, uncontrolled AI development in sensitive areas could have devastating consequences.
However, those favoring free development contend that excessive regulation could stifle innovation and economic growth. They argue that the rapid advancement of AI technology has already produced numerous benefits in healthcare, education, and scientific research. Overregulation might cause talented researchers and companies to relocate to countries with fewer restrictions, potentially creating dangerous technological imbalances globally.
In my view, the optimal approach lies in implementing thoughtful regulation that ensures safety while fostering innovation. Governments should establish clear guidelines for AI development, particularly in critical areas like autonomous weapons and surveillance systems, while maintaining flexibility for beneficial applications in medicine and scientific research. This balanced framework would protect society while allowing technological progress to flourish.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The control of AI development by governments is a controversial topic today. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think governments should control AI development strictly. First, AI can be dangerous if not controlled properly. For example, AI might take away many jobs from humans or be used for bad purposes. Second, without government control, big companies might develop AI that hurts people’s privacy or safety.
On the other hand, some believe AI should develop freely. They say this will help make better technology faster. For instance, free AI development has already helped doctors treat patients better and helped scientists solve problems. Also, too many rules might make companies move to other countries where there are fewer rules.
In my opinion, I think governments should make some rules for AI but not too strict. They should focus on dangerous areas like weapons but let companies develop helpful AI for medicine and education. This way, we can keep people safe but also get benefits from AI technology.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts with well-developed arguments
- Coherence/Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary with natural usage
- Grammar: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay
- Task Response: Addresses main parts but less developed
- Coherence/Cohesion: Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary with some errors
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- regulation (n) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃən/ – official rules
- stifle (v) /ˈstaɪfəl/ – prevent growth or development
- autonomous (adj) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ – self-governing
- innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – new ideas or methods
- framework (n) /ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – basic structure of system
High-scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While [argument 1], [argument 2], suggesting that [conclusion].”
- “Not only does [point 1], but it also [point 2].”
- “The optimal approach lies in [solution], which would [benefit 1] while [benefit 2].”
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic. Share your attempts in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
