IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)

The most important aim of science should be to improve people’s lives.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Some people opine that in an era marked by unprecedented scientific advancements, the paramount goal of science should fundamentally be directed towards improving the lives of individuals. I wholeheartedly concur with this notion and will elaborate on the reasons supporting this viewpoint.

The most compelling argument in favour of science's primary aim being the improvement of people's lives pertains to its immense possibility towards contributions to the field of health and medicine. Breakthroughs in medical science, such as the development of vaccines, antibiotics, and advanced surgical techniques, have substantially extended human lifespans and reduced the burden of diseases worldwide. For instance, the discovery of antibiotics like penicillin revolutionized medicine, saving countless lives and alleviating human suffering. However, there is still plenty to achieve in this field. Prioritising people's well-being as the primary objective of scientific advancement can eradicate deadly diseases from the face of the earth and make it a better place to live in.

Another compelling reason to prioritize improving people's lives through science is the pressing need for environmental sustainability. Scientific research and innovation are vital for addressing climate change, resource depletion, and pollution—issues that directly impact the well-being of current and future generations. Innovations like renewable energy technologies, efficient waste management, and sustainable agriculture practices are essential for preserving the planet for future generations.

In conclusion, the central aim of science should indeed be the betterment of human lives. Science has consistently demonstrated its capacity to prolong life, alleviate suffering, and address pressing global challenges. And it still has a lot to contribute. It, should, therefore, play an indispensable role in advancing health, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

Model Answer 2: [Agreement] [Band 9 Sample Answer]

Science stands as one of the paramount forces propelling human progress, and its pivotal role in shaping our world is undeniable. It is often contended that the most critical aim of science should be the advancement of human well-being, a perspective I staunchly endorse. In this essay, I will not only reaffirm the importance of science in improving people's lives but also provide a deeper exploration of the compelling arguments supporting this viewpoint.

First and foremost, science's central mission should be to elevate the quality of human existence. Over the years, scientific research and innovation have yielded groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various domains, including medicine, agriculture, and technology. These breakthroughs have led to remarkable improvements in people's lives. For instance, the advent of antibiotics marked a watershed moment in healthcare, saving countless lives by conquering infectious diseases. Similarly, innovations in agricultural science have bolstered food production, mitigating hunger and malnutrition for millions across the globe.

Secondly, emphasizing the betterment of human lives through scientific endeavours is in perfect alignment with the ethical responsibility of the scientific community. Scientists shoulder a moral obligation to employ their knowledge and expertise for the greater good. This entails addressing pressing global challenges like climate change, disease prevention, and poverty eradication. The expedited development of COVID-19 vaccines exemplifies this ethical commitment. Scientists worldwide joined forces to protect lives and minimize the societal impact of the pandemic, showcasing the immense potential of science to serve humanity in times of crisis.

In conclusion, there can be no doubt that science's foremost aim should unequivocally be the enhancement of human well-being. Its unparalleled capacity to catalyze transformative change across diverse facets of human existence underscores its indispensable role as a driving force for progress. By placing a profound emphasis on the welfare and flourishing of individuals and societies, the scientific community is poised to continue shaping a brighter, healthier, and more prosperous future for all.

Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:

Essay Question:
The most important aim of science should be to improve people’s lives.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Essay Type: 
Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)

Main question:
To what extent do you agree or disagree that the most important aim of science should be to improve people's lives.

Why improving people’s lives should be the most important aim of science:

Scientific progress should serve humanity's well-being: 
The fundamental purpose of scientific research is to solve human problems and improve the quality of life. Breakthroughs in medicine, technology, and energy production have directly contributed to human survival, longevity, and comfort. For example, the development of vaccines has eradicated deadly diseases like smallpox and significantly reduced mortality rates worldwide.

Advancements in science help combat global challenges: 
Issues such as climate change, food security, and healthcare crises require scientific solutions. Without prioritizing human welfare, science could be misused or remain ineffective in addressing urgent global concerns. For example, renewable energy research has led to solar and wind power innovations, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.

Science must be ethically and socially responsible: 
If scientific endeavors do not prioritize human well-being, they risk becoming harmful or exploitative. Unchecked technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence or genetic engineering, could lead to ethical dilemmas and social inequality if not focused on benefiting humanity. For example, while AI has the potential to revolutionize industries, its misuse in mass surveillance threatens individual privacy and human rights.
 

Why improving people's lives should not be the sole purpose of science:

Science should aim for knowledge, not just practical benefits: 
Scientific exploration often leads to unexpected discoveries that may not have immediate human benefits but contribute to long-term progress. Prioritizing only human-centric applications could limit innovation. For example, space exploration initially seemed unrelated to daily life, but it has led to GPS technology and satellite communications.

Scientific curiosity should not be restricted by immediate usefulness: 
Some of the greatest scientific breakthroughs were not aimed at directly improving human life but ended up having profound impacts. Limiting science to only practical applications could stifle creativity and intellectual growth. For example, the study of quantum mechanics was once considered purely theoretical, yet it now forms the foundation of modern computing and telecommunications.

Nature and the universe deserve study beyond human interests: 
Science is not just about benefiting humans but also understanding the universe, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Research should extend beyond human needs to preserve life on Earth and gain deeper insights into existence. For example, studying deep-sea ecosystems has revealed unique species and biological processes that expand our understanding of life, even if they have no immediate human application.

Model Answer 3: [Disagreement]

Scientific research has shaped human civilization, and many propose the idea that the primary aim of science should be to enhance people’s lives. In my opinion, while advancements in medicine, technology, and energy benefit society and are important aims of science, science should be pursued for knowledge, discovery, and a deeper understanding of the universe rather than being restricted to human welfare.

One reason science's primary focus should not be limited to human benefits is that many discoveries arise from curiosity-driven research. Some of the most revolutionary breakthroughs had no immediate application but later transformed the world. For example, quantum mechanics was initially theoretical, yet it laid the foundation for modern computing and telecommunications. If science were only focused on practical outcomes, such discoveries might never have emerged.

Additionally, scientific inquiry extends beyond human concerns to studying nature, ecosystems, and the universe. Understanding biodiversity and planetary systems is essential, even if it does not directly benefit people. For instance, deep-sea exploration has uncovered species with unique biological adaptations, expanding our knowledge of life’s complexity. Such research is valuable in its own right, regardless of its immediate application to human well-being. Moreover, prioritising human welfare in science can lead to ethical dilemmas. While artificial intelligence and genetic engineering have the potential to improve lives, they also raise serious concerns about privacy, inequality, and misuse. For example, AI-driven surveillance threatens individual freedoms, illustrating how a human-centred focus can lead to harmful consequences.

In conclusion, while science undoubtedly improves human lives, its primary and only objective should not be confined to this purpose. Many discoveries result from pure exploration, and studying the natural world broadens our understanding of existence. Science should remain driven by curiosity and knowledge rather than solely human benefit.