In recent years, the topic of ethics in scientific advancements has gained significant importance in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. This subject has appeared multiple times in past tests and is likely to continue being a popular theme due to its relevance in our rapidly advancing technological world. Based on an analysis of previous IELTS exams and current global trends, we can expect to see more questions addressing the ethical considerations of scientific progress.
One frequently encountered question on this topic is:
Some people think that scientists should be allowed to do any research they wish, while others believe that some types of research should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores to help you prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
Question Analysis
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints:
- Scientists should have complete freedom in their research.
- Certain types of research should be prohibited.
You are required to examine both perspectives and then provide your personal opinion on the matter. It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Ethics in Scientific Research
Scientific research has been the cornerstone of human progress, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that have transformed our world. However, the ethical implications of unrestricted scientific exploration have sparked a heated debate. While some argue for complete freedom in research, others advocate for certain limitations. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of unrestricted scientific research argue that limitations stifle innovation and hinder progress. They contend that many revolutionary discoveries have emerged from unconventional or controversial studies. For instance, stem cell research, despite initial ethical concerns, has led to significant advancements in regenerative medicine. Furthermore, they argue that scientists, with their extensive training and expertise, are best equipped to determine the direction and ethics of their work.
On the other hand, those in favor of restrictions emphasize the potential dangers of unchecked scientific exploration. They point to historical examples where unethical research has caused harm, such as the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Advocates for regulation argue that ethical oversight is crucial to protect human rights, animal welfare, and environmental safety. They believe that certain areas of research, such as human cloning or biological weapons, pose too great a risk to society and should be prohibited.
In my opinion, while scientific freedom is vital for progress, it must be balanced with ethical considerations. I believe that a middle ground can be achieved through the implementation of robust ethical review boards and transparent research practices. These measures can ensure that scientific advancements are pursued responsibly, without compromising human dignity or ecological integrity. Moreover, ethical guidelines can actually enhance scientific progress by fostering public trust and encouraging collaboration.
In conclusion, the debate over scientific research freedom is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. However, I believe that a carefully regulated approach that prioritizes ethical considerations while still allowing for innovation is the most beneficial path forward. This balanced approach can help us harness the power of science for the betterment of humanity while safeguarding our fundamental values and principles.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 8-9 score for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as “However,” “Furthermore,” and “Moreover.”
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Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used appropriately and accurately. Complex phrases like “stifle innovation,” “unconventional or controversial studies,” and “robust ethical review boards” are used effectively.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of grammatical structures with flexibility and accuracy. It includes complex sentences and various tenses without noticeable errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether scientists should have complete freedom in their research or if some areas should be off-limits is a complicated issue. There are good reasons for both sides, and this essay will look at the main arguments before giving my opinion.
Some people think scientists should be allowed to do any research they want. They say that scientific progress needs freedom to explore new ideas, even if they seem strange or risky at first. Many important discoveries in the past came from experiments that some people thought were dangerous or unethical. For example, early vaccine research was controversial but has saved millions of lives. Also, scientists are experts in their fields and should be trusted to make good decisions about their work.
On the other hand, others believe that some types of research are too dangerous or unethical and should be banned. They worry that without limits, scientists might do experiments that harm people, animals, or the environment. There have been cases in history where unethical research has caused a lot of suffering. These people think that society needs to set rules to protect everyone from the potential risks of some scientific studies.
In my opinion, I think there should be some limits on scientific research, but not too many. We need a balance between allowing scientists to explore new ideas and making sure their work is safe and ethical. I believe the best solution is to have independent committees review research proposals to check if they follow ethical guidelines. This way, we can still make scientific progress while protecting important values and safety.
To conclude, while scientific freedom is important for progress, it’s also necessary to have some ethical limits. By finding a balance between these two needs, we can ensure that science continues to benefit society in a responsible way.
(Word count: 295)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices, but not as wide a range as the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words. However, it lacks the sophistication and precision of higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede understanding.
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Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is not as thorough as in higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Ethical implications (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkəl ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃənz/ – The potential consequences or effects of an action in terms of morality or ethics.
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Stifle innovation (verb phrase) – /ˈstaɪfəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – To prevent or hinder creativity and new ideas from developing.
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Groundbreaking discoveries (noun phrase) – /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ dɪˈskʌvəriz/ – New and important findings that change the way people think about or do things.
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Ethical oversight (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkəl ˈəʊvərsaɪt/ – The act of monitoring and regulating research to ensure it adheres to moral principles.
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Robust ethical review boards (noun phrase) – /rəʊˈbʌst ˈeθɪkəl rɪˈvjuː bɔːrdz/ – Strong, effective committees that evaluate research proposals for ethical concerns.
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Transparent research practices (noun phrase) – /trænsˈpærənt rɪˈsɜːrtʃ ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Open and clear methods of conducting scientific studies.
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Safeguarding fundamental values (verb phrase) – /ˈseɪfɡɑːrdɪŋ ˌfʌndəˈmentl ˈvæljuːz/ – Protecting basic principles or beliefs that are considered important.
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Ecological integrity (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ɪnˈteɡrəti/ – The health and balance of an ecosystem.
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Unconventional studies (noun phrase) – /ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənl ˈstʌdiz/ – Research that does not follow traditional or typical methods.
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Foster public trust (verb phrase) – /ˈfɒstə ˈpʌblɪk trʌst/ – To encourage or promote confidence among the general population.
Conclusion
The topic of ethics in scientific advancements is a complex and nuanced subject that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to address this topic effectively.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The ethical implications of artificial intelligence development.
- The role of government in regulating scientific research.
- Balancing scientific progress with environmental protection.
Remember to focus on clear argumentation, appropriate use of advanced vocabulary, and a well-structured essay. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
