The topic of consumerism and its effects on society has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across recent test dates. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme frequently appears in essay questions exploring consumer behavior, materialistic values, and social implications.
Is shopping as a hobby a positive trend has emerged as one of the most common question types within this theme. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people believe that modern society has become too consumer-oriented, focusing extensively on buying and owning material possessions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on consumerism in modern society
- Evaluate the extent of materialism’s influence
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Consider both positive and negative aspects
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent decades, there has been growing concern about the increasingly materialistic nature of modern society. While some argue that we have become overly focused on consumption and material possessions, I strongly agree with this assessment based on several observable trends and their implications.
Firstly, the pervasive nature of consumer culture has fundamentally altered social values and behavior patterns. Today’s society often equates personal worth and success with material possessions, whether it’s the latest smartphone, designer clothing, or luxury vehicles. This mindset has led to what experts studying impact of advertising on lifestyle choices call “competitive consumption,” where individuals constantly compare their possessions with others and feel pressure to upgrade or acquire more.
Moreover, this consumer-oriented mindset has serious psychological and social consequences. Studies show increasing rates of anxiety and depression linked to materialistic values, particularly among young people who feel constant pressure to maintain certain lifestyle standards through purchasing. The phenomenon of Throwaway society: advantages outweigh disadvantages demonstrates how this mindset affects environmental sustainability and resource management.
However, the most concerning aspect is how consumerism has begun to overshadow more meaningful aspects of life. Traditional values like community engagement, personal relationships, and spiritual growth are increasingly marginalized in favor of shopping and acquisition. This shift raises important questions about should ethical consumerism be taught in schools to help future generations develop more balanced perspectives.
In conclusion, modern society’s excessive focus on consumption and material possessions represents a significant challenge that requires both individual awareness and collective action to address. We must strive to rebalance our values and find fulfillment beyond mere material acquisition.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that modern society has become too focused on buying things. This situation has many negative effects on people and society.
First, people spend too much money on shopping these days. They buy many things they don’t really need, just because advertisements make them want these products. This makes people waste money and sometimes get into debt problems.
Also, young people especially think having expensive things makes them look successful. They want to buy branded clothes and new phones to show others they are doing well. This is not a good way to judge success.
Another problem is that people throw away too many things. When something gets old or breaks, they just buy new ones instead of fixing them. This is bad for the environment and wastes resources.
However, buying things also helps the economy grow. When people shop more, businesses make more money and can give jobs to more people. This is good for society.
In conclusion, I think modern society focuses too much on buying things. While it helps the economy, it causes many problems like waste and wrong values about success.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position throughout
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “pervasive nature,” “competitive consumption”
- Complex sentence structures
- Cohesive linking: “Moreover,” “However”
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Excellent paragraph organization
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear position
- Simple vocabulary with some repetition
- Mixed simple and complex sentences
- Basic linking words
- Limited development of ideas
- Adequate organization with some repetition
Key Vocabulary:
- Pervasive (adj) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – spreading widely throughout an area or group
- Materialistic (adj) /məˌtɪriəˈlɪstɪk/ – excessively concerned with material possessions
- Acquisition (n) /ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən/ – the act of obtaining or acquiring something
- Competitive consumption (n) /kəmˈpetətɪv kənˈsʌmpʃən/ – buying behavior driven by comparison with others
- Marginalized (v) /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd/ – treated as insignificant or peripheral
Future practice questions might explore:
- The role of social media in promoting consumer culture
- Environmental impacts of excessive consumption
- Alternative lifestyle movements opposing materialism
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion!