It is Inevitable That as Technology Advances,Traditional Cultures Will be Lost- IELTS Writing Task 2

It is inevitable that as technology advances, traditional cultures will be lost. It seems that we cannot have these two things together. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Outline

Essay Type

Opinion essay

Introduction

Sentences 1&2 – Paraphrase the topic with the use of synonyms. Create a base understanding for the reader, something to expand on in the essay.

Sentence 3 – State that the essay will understand how technology does not impact culture in a negative manner.

Body Paragraphs

Paragraph 1 – Elucidate how technology has helped humans over the course of our existence, and how events like the Industrial Revolution have made it clear that modernisation is necessary for our survival, but point out that cultures are adopting to modernisation and vice versa.

Paragraph 2 – Take the example of Japan, how it has become a benchmark for technology and modernisation, but still people are extremely dedicated towards their traditions.

Paragraph 3 – Acknowledge that instances have been recorded where cultures have been standing in the way of modernisation, but shed light on the other perspective, that cultures & traditions co-exist with modernisation.

Conclusion

Restate your views.

Sample Essay

Modernisation is the way forward for humanity as a race. Technological advancements and subsequent uses benefit us in every sense imaginable. But, there has been a cry from a few sections that modernisation is happening at the cost of cultures and traditions and that the two cannot go hand in hand. I feel the opposite is accurate, and this essay will throw some light on my perspective.

Since the erstwhile invention of the wheel, humans have utilized their curiosity to venture into uncharted venues, both physically and technologically. Later, the Industrial Revolution further solidified the notion: “technology is the way forward.” But, many countries are still holding on to their cultural and traditional values and using their inquisitiveness to advance technologically without compromising them as cultural identity is part and parcel of the people’s daily lives.  Take the example of Japan. The island-nation is known for its products mainly in the array of technology, which is often set as a benchmark of reliability. Machinery is so prevalent in Japan that you can even fix yourself a steaming hot cup of ramen noodles from a vending machine! Even after being so ahead of their time, Japanese people are still rooted in their cultures, should I add, willingly.

Apart from that, technology and cultural identity are independent of each other. Even though a country is advancing in the scientific field, the citizens will still follow their traditional ways as technology is a choice and food for their minds. In contrast, culture is constituted by the beliefs, customs and integral part of the society. For instance, India has come forward as an emerging power among the developing countries. Yet, globally, the nation is still known for its diverse culture and unity.

It is true that technology and modernisation suffer from preconceived notions that some cultures have. Cultures often reject a life-changing idea because their beliefs are non-conforming with it. Such cases shall be scrutinized, but one must be aware that modernisation co-exists with culture, sometimes symbiotically.

To conclude, traditions shall not necessarily suffer from modernisation, and it is entirely possible for both of them to co-exist.

Vocabulary

• Modernisation

Meaning – the process of adapting something to modern needs or habits.
Example – Technology is a big contributing factor towards modernisation.

• Advancements

Meaning – the process of promoting a cause or plan.
Example – Technological advancements help us in exploring the seas and the space.

• Subsequent

Meaning – coming after something in time.
Example – Climate change is the subsequent result of rampant exploitation and usage of fossil fuels.

• Erstwhile

Meaning – former.
Example – The erstwhile dynasties of India contributed to architecture significantly.

• Uncharted

Meaning – (of an area of land or sea) not mapped or surveyed.
Example – Humans are yet to set foot on the uncharted land of Mars.

• Solidified

Meaning – make or become hard or solid.
Example – The “Vaccine Maitri” program of India has solidified its relations with many countries.

• Array

Meaning – an impressive display or range of a particular type of thing.
Example – The Indian Archery team put forth an array of clinical performances.

• Benchmark

Meaning – a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.
Example – In terms of air conditioners, Mitsubishi Heavy Duty AC is the benchmark.

• Preconceived

Meaning – (of an idea or opinion) formed before having the evidence for its truth or usefulness.
Example – Stereotypes are various preconceived notions regarding someone.

• Symbiotically

Meaning – in or by means of a mutually beneficial relationship.
Example – Many organisms survive symbiotically.