Ethical advertising has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across recent test versions. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme frequently appears in questions about consumer protection, business ethics, and social responsibility. Let’s examine one of the most representative questions that has appeared in recent IELTS tests.
The need for ethical tech regulations has become increasingly important in today’s digital age, particularly in advertising.
Some people believe that there should be strict regulations on how companies advertise their products, while others think companies should have freedom in advertising. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for strict advertising regulations
- Present views supporting advertising freedom
- Provide a balanced perspective with personal opinion
- Consider ethical implications in marketing
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In today’s consumer-driven society, the debate over advertising regulations has become increasingly significant. While some advocate for stringent control over marketing practices, others champion commercial freedom. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my view.
Those supporting strict regulations argue that uncontrolled advertising can harm society. Misleading advertisements can deceive consumers into making poor purchasing decisions, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like children and elderly people. Moreover, aggressive marketing tactics may promote unhealthy products or unrealistic beauty standards, leading to social issues like obesity or poor self-image. The role of ethical advertising in marketing is crucial in protecting consumer interests.
Conversely, proponents of advertising freedom contend that excessive regulation stifles innovation and economic growth. They argue that companies need creative freedom to effectively communicate their products’ benefits and maintain competitive advantage. Additionally, advertising revenues support many free services and media outlets, benefiting society at large.
In my opinion, while business freedom is important, some degree of regulation is essential to protect public interests. A balanced approach combining industry self-regulation with government oversight would be most effective. This could include mandatory disclosure of product information, restrictions on misleading claims, and special protections for vulnerable demographics.
Should there be stricter regulations on advertising to children remains a particularly crucial consideration in this debate.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people have different opinions about controlling advertising. Some think strict rules are needed, while others believe companies should be free to advertise how they want. I will discuss both sides of this issue.
People who want strict rules say that many advertisements are not honest. They think companies sometimes lie about their products to make more money. This is bad for customers who waste money on things that don’t work as promised. Also, some adverts make people feel bad about themselves, especially young people.
On the other hand, some people think companies need freedom in advertising. They say that rules make it hard for businesses to grow and compete. Also, advertising helps pay for free things like TV shows and websites that people enjoy.
I think we need some rules but not too many. Companies should be allowed to advertise but must tell the truth. The government should check adverts to make sure they are honest and don’t harm people.
Key Vocabulary
- stringent (adj.) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, severe
- regulatory framework (n.) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪtəri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – system of rules
- deceptive practices (n.) /dɪˈseptɪv ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – misleading actions
- oversight (n.) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision
- compliance (n.) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – following rules
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex Contrast: “While business freedom is important, some degree of regulation is essential…”
- Causation Structure: “Misleading advertisements can deceive consumers, thereby leading to poor purchasing decisions.”
- Balanced Argument: “On one hand… while on the other hand…”
importance of regulating online advertising to protect consumers contains additional examples of effective argumentative writing.
I encourage readers to practice writing their own response to this question and share it in the comments section for feedback. Focus on maintaining a clear structure and incorporating relevant vocabulary from the list provided.