Ethical business practices have become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme appears in approximately 15-20% of business-related tasks, often intersecting with corporate responsibility, sustainable development, and consumer rights. The importance of ethical funds for conscious investors has particularly gained prominence in recent years.
Analysis of Task Question
Some people believe that businesses should prioritize profit above all else, while others argue that ethical practices should be the main focus. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine two contrasting viewpoints about business priorities
- Provide balanced analysis of both perspectives
- Present and justify their personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
IELTS Writing Task 2 question about ethical business practices
Band 8.0 Sample Essay
In today’s globalized economy, the debate between profit maximization and ethical business conduct has become increasingly significant. While some advocate for a purely profit-driven approach, I firmly believe that ethical practices should be the cornerstone of modern business operations.
Those who prioritize profits argue that businesses exist primarily to generate returns for shareholders. They contend that financial success enables companies to create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to economic growth. For instance, many successful tech companies initially focused on rapid growth and market dominance before implementing comprehensive ethical frameworks. The importance of ethical investing for sustainable development was often secondary to their expansion goals.
However, proponents of ethical business practices emphasize their long-term benefits. Ethical companies typically enjoy enhanced reputation, stronger customer loyalty, and sustained success. For example, companies that prioritize fair labor practices and environmental sustainability often outperform their competitors in the long run. Moreover, as demonstrated by recent scandals in how can ethical banking practices be promoted, unethical behavior can lead to devastating consequences for businesses and stakeholders alike.
In my opinion, ethical practices and profitability are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary goals. Companies can achieve significant financial success while maintaining high ethical standards. The rising importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria in investment decisions reflects this shifting paradigm. Furthermore, with increasing consumer awareness and the importance of regulating the use of big data, ethical business practices have become essential for sustainable growth.
In conclusion, while profit remains important, ethical considerations should guide business operations. Companies that balance both aspects are better positioned for long-term success in our increasingly conscious marketplace.
High-scoring IELTS essay showing proper structure and analysis
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Many people have different opinions about whether businesses should focus more on making money or being ethical. This essay will discuss both sides and give my view.
Some people think profit should be the main goal of businesses. They say companies need to make money to stay alive and grow bigger. For example, many small businesses in my country focus on making profit first because they need to survive in the market. They might not have enough money to think about ethical things right away.
On the other hand, some people believe ethical practices are more important. When companies are ethical, customers trust them more and want to buy from them again. For instance, companies that treat workers fairly and don’t harm the environment usually get more customers. The How can digital media promote ethical consumerism? shows that many people care about buying from good companies.
I think both making money and being ethical are important for businesses. If a company only thinks about profit, they might do bad things that hurt people or the environment. But if they only think about being ethical without making enough money, they might close down. Companies should try to do both things together.
In conclusion, businesses should try to make profit while also being ethical. This will help them be successful for a long time and make everyone happy.
Key Vocabulary
- ethical practices (n.) /ˈeθɪkəl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – moral business behavior
- prioritize (v.) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – give importance to
- stakeholders (n.) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldəz/ – people affected by business decisions
- sustainability (n.) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain long-term
- mutually exclusive (adj.) /ˈmjuːtʃuəli ɪkˈskluːsɪv/ – cannot occur together
- paradigm (n.) /ˈpærədaɪm/ – pattern or model
- complementary (adj.) /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentri/ – completing or enhancing each other
Consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- Corporate social responsibility vs. financial growth
- Environmental protection in business operations
- Fair trade practices impact on business success
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
