Ethical business practices have become an increasingly important topic in recent years, reflecting growing public concern about corporate responsibility and sustainability. This theme has appeared in several IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and its relevance is likely to continue in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question on this subject and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that businesses should prioritize profit, while others argue that they have a responsibility to act ethically. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a common dilemma in the business world: the balance between profit-making and ethical responsibility. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that businesses should prioritize profit
- Discuss the view that businesses have a responsibility to act ethically
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s globalized economy, the debate over whether businesses should prioritize profit or ethical responsibility has gained significant traction. While some argue that the primary goal of a company should be to maximize shareholder value, others contend that businesses have a moral obligation to consider the broader impact of their actions. In my opinion, while profitability is crucial for a company’s survival, it should not come at the expense of ethical conduct.
Those who advocate for profit prioritization often argue that businesses are primarily economic entities designed to generate returns for their investors. They contend that by focusing on profitability, companies can create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to economic growth. Moreover, they argue that in a competitive market, businesses that don’t prioritize profit risk failure, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability.
On the other hand, proponents of ethical business practices argue that companies have a responsibility to consider the broader societal and environmental implications of their actions. They contend that ethical behavior can lead to long-term sustainability and build trust with consumers, employees, and other stakeholders. Furthermore, they argue that unethical practices, even if profitable in the short term, can lead to reputational damage, legal consequences, and ultimately, financial losses.
In my view, the most successful businesses are those that manage to balance profitability with ethical responsibility. Ethical business practices can be a source of competitive advantage, attracting conscientious consumers and talented employees. Companies like Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s have demonstrated that it’s possible to be profitable while maintaining strong ethical standards. Moreover, as consumers become increasingly aware of corporate behavior, businesses that prioritize ethics may be better positioned for long-term success.
In conclusion, while the profit motive is an essential driver of business activity, it should not supersede ethical considerations. Companies should strive to create value for shareholders while also considering their impact on society and the environment. By doing so, they can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable economy, benefiting not just their bottom line, but society as a whole.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether businesses should focus on making money or being ethical is a big debate today. Some people think companies should only care about profits, while others say they need to be responsible too. I think both views have good points, but being ethical is more important in the long run.
People who say profit is the most important thing argue that businesses need to make money to survive. They say that if a company doesn’t make enough profit, it might have to close down and people could lose their jobs. Also, they think that when businesses make more money, it helps the economy grow.
On the other hand, those who support ethical business practices say that companies should think about how their actions affect society and the environment. They believe that being ethical can help a company build a good reputation and get more customers. They also say that unethical behavior can lead to problems like fines or bad publicity.
In my opinion, I think it’s best for businesses to try to be both profitable and ethical. While making money is necessary, I believe that companies should also care about doing the right thing. For example, a company could use environmentally friendly materials even if they cost a bit more. This might attract customers who care about the environment and help the company in the long term.
To conclude, I think that while profit is important, businesses should not ignore ethics. By being responsible and considering the impact of their actions, companies can be successful and also help make the world a better place.
(Word count: 262)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. Both are correct, but the higher band essay demonstrates a greater range of expression.
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Arguments: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and specific arguments, with examples. The Band 6-7 essay makes valid points but could benefit from more specific examples or evidence.
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Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay integrates it more smoothly throughout the essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses a wider range of linking words and phrases, creating a more cohesive argument. The Band 6-7 essay is coherent but could improve its use of cohesive devices.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkl/ – morally correct or acceptable
- Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrɪtaɪz/ – to treat something as more important than other things
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to continue or be continued for a long time
- Stakeholder (noun) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/ – a person or group with an interest in a business
- Corporate responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈkɔːpərət rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – a company’s duty to operate in an ethical manner
- Profitability (noun) /ˌprɒfɪtəˈbɪləti/ – the state or condition of yielding a financial profit or gain
- Competitive advantage (noun phrase) /kəmˈpetətɪv ədˈvɑːntɪdʒ/ – a condition that puts a company in a favorable business position
- Globalized economy (noun phrase) /ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd iˈkɒnəmi/ – an interconnected worldwide economic system
Conclusion
The topic of ethical business practices is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as corporate social responsibility, sustainable business models, or the role of businesses in addressing social issues. Remember to balance your discussion of different viewpoints and clearly state your own opinion.
To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article, enhancing your ability to tackle similar questions in the actual IELTS exam.
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