The topic of corporate social responsibility versus profit maximization is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. It touches on important issues of business ethics, sustainability, and the role of companies in society, making it a relevant and thought-provoking topic for IELTS candidates.
Let’s examine a sample question that reflects this theme:
Some people believe that companies should focus solely on making profits, while others argue that businesses have a responsibility to benefit society as well. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on corporate priorities:
- Companies should focus exclusively on profit-making.
- Businesses have a duty to contribute positively to society.
The task requires you to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide your personal opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s globalized economy, the debate over whether companies should prioritize profits or social responsibility has become increasingly significant. While some argue that businesses should focus solely on financial gains, others contend that they have an obligation to contribute to societal well-being. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines profit-making with social responsibility is not only ethical but also beneficial for long-term business success.
Those who advocate for a profit-centric approach argue that the primary purpose of a company is to generate returns for its shareholders. They contend that by maximizing profits, businesses can create jobs, drive economic growth, and indirectly benefit society through increased tax revenues and investment. For example, tech giants like Apple and Google have created enormous wealth and job opportunities while revolutionizing various industries. However, this perspective overlooks the potential negative externalities that can arise from an exclusive focus on profits, such as environmental degradation or worker exploitation.
On the other hand, proponents of corporate social responsibility (CSR) argue that businesses have a moral obligation to consider their impact on society and the environment. They believe that companies should integrate social and environmental concerns into their business operations and interactions with stakeholders. For instance, companies like Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s have successfully incorporated sustainability and social justice initiatives into their core business models, demonstrating that profit and social responsibility can coexist. This approach can lead to improved brand reputation, customer loyalty, and employee satisfaction, which can ultimately contribute to long-term financial success.
In my view, the most effective and sustainable approach is to strike a balance between profit-making and social responsibility. Companies that adopt this mindset can create shared value, benefiting both their bottom line and society at large. For example, investing in renewable energy sources can reduce a company’s carbon footprint while also lowering operational costs in the long run. Similarly, providing fair wages and good working conditions can increase productivity and reduce employee turnover, ultimately improving profitability.
In conclusion, while the pursuit of profits is essential for business survival and growth, it should not come at the expense of social and environmental well-being. By integrating social responsibility into their core strategies, companies can achieve sustainable success while contributing positively to society. This approach not only addresses the ethical concerns surrounding corporate behavior but also ensures the long-term viability of businesses in an increasingly conscious and interconnected world.
(Word count: 378)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether companies should focus only on making profits or also consider their social responsibilities is a complex issue. Some people believe that businesses should concentrate solely on financial gains, while others argue that they have a duty to benefit society as well. In my opinion, companies should try to balance both profit-making and social responsibility.
Those who support the idea of companies focusing only on profits argue that this is the main purpose of a business. They say that by making money, companies can create jobs and help the economy grow. For example, big companies like Amazon have created many job opportunities and improved online shopping for customers. However, this view doesn’t consider the negative effects that only focusing on profits can have on society and the environment.
On the other hand, people who believe in corporate social responsibility say that companies should think about how their actions affect society and the environment. They argue that businesses can make money while also doing good for the community. For instance, some companies donate a portion of their profits to charities or use environmentally friendly practices in their production. This approach can help build a good reputation for the company and make customers more loyal.
I believe that the best approach is for companies to try to balance making profits with being socially responsible. By doing this, they can be successful in business while also helping society. For example, a company could invest in renewable energy to reduce its environmental impact, which could also save money on electricity in the long run. Another way is to treat employees well, which can lead to better productivity and less staff turnover.
In conclusion, while making profits is important for businesses to survive and grow, they should also consider their impact on society and the environment. By finding a balance between these two goals, companies can achieve long-term success and contribute positively to the world around them.
(Word count: 329)
Band 5-6 Essay
Some people think companies should only try to make money, but others say they should also help society. I think both ideas are important.
Companies that only want to make money say this is their main job. They think if they make a lot of money, they can give jobs to people and help the economy. For example, big companies like McDonald’s give jobs to many people. But sometimes these companies might not care about the environment or their workers’ health.
Other people think companies should also help society. They say businesses can make money and do good things at the same time. Some companies give money to help poor people or do things to protect nature. This can make people like the company more and want to buy their products.
I believe companies should try to do both things. They need to make money to stay in business, but they should also think about how they affect people and the environment. For example, a company could use less plastic in their products to help the environment. This might cost more money at first, but it could make customers happier and help the company in the long run.
In conclusion, I think companies should try to make money and help society. This way, they can be successful and also make the world a better place.
(Word count: 228)
Analysis of Essay Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free with only very occasional inaccuracies or inappropriacies.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows good writing skills but has some limitations compared to the higher band essay:
- Task Response: All parts of the task are addressed, but some aspects are covered more thoroughly than others. The essay presents relevant ideas but they are less fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs are not as well-linked as in the higher band essay. Cohesive devices are used but occasionally overused or underused.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There are some attempts at more sophisticated vocabulary, but with occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors in grammar and punctuation, but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates basic writing skills but has significant limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task in a minimal way. The format is appropriate, but some key points are underdeveloped.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The overall structure is simple but generally coherent. Paragraphing is present but not always logical.
- Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, adequate for basic communication. There are noticeable errors in word choice and usage, but the meaning is generally clear.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A limited range of structures is used. While simple sentences are often accurate, errors are frequent in more complex structures. These errors sometimes cause difficulty for the reader.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Corporate social responsibility (CSR) (noun) /ˌkɔːrpərət ˌsəʊʃəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/: The idea that businesses should balance profit-making activities with activities that benefit society.
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Shareholder (noun) /ˈʃeəhəʊldə(r)/: A person who owns shares in a company.
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Externality (noun) /ˌekstɜːˈnæləti/: A consequence of an economic activity experienced by unrelated third parties.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
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Stakeholder (noun) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/: A person with an interest or concern in a business or enterprise.
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Brand reputation (noun phrase) /brænd ˌrepjuˈteɪʃn/: The general opinion that people have about a particular brand.
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Carbon footprint (noun phrase) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
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Long-term viability (noun phrase) /ˌlɒŋ tɜːm ˌvaɪəˈbɪləti/: The ability of something to continue to exist or develop in the future.
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Ethical concerns (noun phrase) /ˈeθɪkl kənˈsɜːnz/: Issues related to moral principles and conduct.
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Integrated approach (noun phrase) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/: A method that combines different elements or strategies into a unified whole.
Conclusion
The topic of corporate profit versus social responsibility is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of businesses in environmental protection
- Corporate accountability in the age of globalization
- Balancing economic growth with sustainable development
- The impact of corporate culture on society
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.