The topic of lethal autonomous weapons and their regulation has appeared in several IELTS tests between 2019-2023, particularly in Asia-Pacific test centers. Based on analysis of past papers, this theme commonly emerges in questions about technology, ethics, and international security. Let’s examine a recent task that represents this important topic.
Some people believe there should be a complete ban on the development of lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS). Others argue that such weapons are crucial for modern military defense. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Task Analysis
- Topic: Military technology and ethics
- Key elements: Two opposing views on LAWS
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Focus: Benefits vs risks of autonomous weapons
Military experts and ethicists debating autonomous weapons systems
Band 8 Sample Essay
Debates around lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) have intensified as artificial intelligence advances. While some advocate for their complete prohibition, others defend their military necessity. I believe a carefully regulated approach rather than an outright ban would be most practical.
Those supporting a complete ban raise valid ethical concerns. Autonomous weapons that can select and engage targets without meaningful human control pose unprecedented moral challenges. Critics argue these systems could lower the threshold for armed conflict, as they remove human cost and judgment from warfare. Furthermore, there are concerns about accountability – when autonomous weapons make mistakes, it becomes unclear who bears responsibility.
However, proponents of LAWS present compelling strategic arguments. Modern warfare increasingly demands split-second decisions that exceed human capabilities. Autonomous systems can process information and react faster than human operators, potentially reducing civilian casualties through more precise targeting. Additionally, these weapons could protect human soldiers by taking their place in high-risk situations.
In my view, while the ethical concerns are significant, a complete ban may be unrealistic and potentially counterproductive. A more nuanced approach involving strict international regulations, mandatory human oversight, and clear accountability frameworks would better serve global security. This could include requiring human authorization for lethal decisions, establishing clear chains of responsibility, and implementing rigorous testing protocols.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, there is a big debate about whether lethal autonomous weapons should be banned or not. Some people want to stop them completely, but others think they are important for defense. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who want to ban these weapons have some good reasons. First, they think it is dangerous to let machines decide who lives or dies. Also, if something goes wrong, it is hard to know who is responsible. They worry that these weapons will make war easier because countries don’t need to risk soldiers’ lives.
On the other hand, supporters say these weapons are necessary. They can react faster than humans and might be more accurate. This could actually save lives by making fewer mistakes. Also, they can protect human soldiers by doing dangerous jobs instead of them.
I think both sides make good points, but a complete ban is not the best solution. Instead, we should have strict rules about how these weapons can be used. There should always be human control and clear rules about who is responsible if something goes wrong.
Score Analysis
Band 8 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Balanced argument with nuanced opinion
- Academic tone throughout
- Relevant examples and explanations
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and grammar
- Basic argument structure
- Less developed ideas
- More informal tone
- Limited use of examples
Key Vocabulary
- lethal (adj) /ˈliːθəl/ – deadly, fatal
- autonomous (adj) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ – self-governing
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility
- threshold (n) /ˈθreʃhəʊld/ – point at which something starts
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- precedent (n) /ˈpresɪdənt/ – previous example or standard
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having opposite effect
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision, monitoring
Similar topics likely to appear in future tests might include:
- Regulation of artificial intelligence in warfare
- Ethics of automated decision-making systems
- International cooperation on military technology
- Human control in modern warfare
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
