Throughout IELTS examination history, questions comparing the societal value of different academic disciplines have consistently appeared. One particularly recurring theme involves contrasting business studies with humanities subjects like history. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question that exemplifies this topic trend.
Studying business vs. history for societal benefit: agree or disagree represents a common question type that tests candidates’ ability to evaluate competing academic priorities.
Some people think that studying business and management is more beneficial for society than studying history. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on the relative societal benefits of business vs. history studies
- Support their argument with relevant examples and explanations
- Consider both short-term and long-term impacts on society
- Maintain a balanced academic tone while discussing both disciplines
Band 8 Sample Essay (290 words)
While business education undoubtedly provides practical skills for economic development, I strongly disagree with the notion that it offers more societal benefits than studying history.
History education plays a crucial role in developing critical thinking and cultural awareness that shapes informed citizens and ethical leaders. By analyzing past events, social movements, and civilizations, students gain deep insights into human behavior, political systems, and societal patterns. This knowledge is invaluable for preventing repeated mistakes and making better collective decisions. For instance, understanding historical economic crises helps policymakers implement more effective financial regulations.
Moreover, historical knowledge fosters cultural preservation and identity formation, which are essential for social cohesion. Communities that understand their heritage can better navigate contemporary challenges while maintaining their unique characteristics. The study of history also develops transferable skills like research, analysis, and communication that are applicable across various professional fields.
Business education, while important for economic growth, focuses primarily on profit generation and organizational efficiency. However, without historical context, business leaders may lack the broader perspective needed to make socially responsible decisions. The 2008 financial crisis demonstrated how pursuing short-term business interests without considering historical lessons can lead to devastating societal consequences.
In conclusion, while both disciplines contribute to society, history education provides fundamental tools for building a more informed, culturally aware, and ethically-guided community. The skills and knowledge gained from studying history create a foundation for responsible decision-making across all sectors, including business.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay (265 words)
I disagree that business studies are more beneficial than history for society because both subjects have their own importance.
Firstly, history helps people understand the past and learn from previous mistakes. When students study history, they learn about wars, economic problems, and social changes. This knowledge can help society avoid making the same mistakes again. For example, by studying the Great Depression, we can understand how to handle economic crisis better.
Business studies are also important because they teach practical skills for running companies and managing money. Many students who study business become entrepreneurs or managers who create jobs and help the economy grow. However, this doesn’t mean it’s more valuable than history.
One problem with focusing only on business is that people might forget about culture and tradition. History teaches us about our identity and helps preserve important cultural values. Without historical knowledge, society might lose important traditions and values.
Also, history students learn good research and writing skills that are useful in many jobs, not just history-related work. They learn to think critically and analyze information carefully, which is important for all kinds of work.
In conclusion, both subjects are valuable for society in different ways. While business studies help economic growth, history helps preserve culture and teaches important thinking skills. We shouldn’t say one is better than the other.
Key Vocabulary
- cultural preservation (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌprɛzəˈveɪʃən/ – the protection and maintenance of cultural heritage
- societal cohesion (n) /səˈsaɪəti kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity between members of society
- transferable skills (n) /trænsˈfɜːrəbəl skɪlz/ – abilities useful in many different situations
- policymakers (n) /ˈpɒləsi ˌmeɪkəz/ – people who decide government policies
- entrepreneurship (n) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – the activity of starting and managing businesses
For practice, try writing your own essay addressing this topic and share it in the comments section. Consider how different cultural perspectives might influence your response while maintaining academic objectivity.