Essay Topics from past papers under the topic area I

I. Economic, historical, moral, political and social

1. ‘Families are less united than they have ever been.’

Discuss this statement with reference to family values in
your country.

Answers may include:

• family values being passed down through generations leading

to strength and moral standards; at the same time strict family
views could promote radicalisation
• the idea of the father being the ‘breadwinner’ and the mother
being the ‘homemaker’ who produces and brings up children is
still the accepted norm in many societies though this is changing
• honesty, loyalty and faith, encouraged and taught within the
family, can have a positive and lasting effect on society
• many families disintegrating due to infidelity and divorce, leading
to strained family relationships
• how family values can be used for political purposes in political
party manifestos
• understanding the changing nature of families with the advent of
same sex marriages and other family models
• how some people, particularly the young, prefer to regard
friends as family members
• some sub-cultures proposing alternative values that conflict with
moral and cultural standards in society.
 2. ‘Democracy is the ideal form of government but it is
very difficult to achieve.’ Assess this statement.

Answers are likely to:

• consider the concept and principal features and styles of
democracy
• show an understanding of the reasons why democracy may, or
may not, be considered an ideal form of government, relating to
the principles identified, and how far it may be difficult to achieve
• analyse the factors involved in making it difficult to establish
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the evidence
and argument put forward.

Answers might include discussions and examples such as:

• ‘ideal’ principles may include participation, representation,
having a say in decisions made which affect our lives and spend
our taxes, the role of free speech and free press/lack of
censorship
• may only be considered ‘ideal’ if voting and discussion is based
on widespread access to unbiased information, education and
media; possibility of ill-informed results, difficulties with majority
decisions and subjectivity of issues involved, need for elected
persons and their policies to be popular leading to long-term
difficult decisions not being made (e.g. social care and pensions
funding in the UK constantly being ‘kicked into the long grass’)
 • achievable to a degree, as evidenced by the existence of
political parties, elections and an accompanying structure/cycle,
referenda, local government, and debates in society and the
media
• obstacles may include the existence of (constitutional)
monarchies, perceived unfairness/lack of representation of
particular voting systems such as First Past The Post and its safe
seats, limits posed on participation in elections (will vary by
country and improving, as a general rule), the population and
representatives generally having to align themselves with a party
which is unlikely to represent their views fully or on every issue
• the role of media bias or government control of media in limiting
free speech and access to full information, and press restrictions
on reporting, for example regarding security or motivation for
decisions made
• the formation of political dynasties, a ruling class and the
possibility of corruption in government, our ‘representatives’ often
being seen as distant, not relatable and
untouchable/unaccountable.
3.‘Wealth and happiness have nothing to do with income.’
Discuss.

Answers are likely to:

• focus on own experience and country
• consider the consequences of income inequality come to a
reasoned judgement backed up by ideas.

Answers might include discussions and examples such as:

• situations in different parts of the world for example places

where subsistence living is the economic reality as opposed to
places where conspicuous consumption is the norm
• consideration of the actual value of money as opposed to its
acquisition for its own sake
• housing, medical care, a satisfactory diet, all of these are
essential for human dignity and should not have a price tag
• family, kinship, community and friends, are not always
dependent on income
• reading, writing, walking, contemplation, may provide
enrichment and solace that money cannot buy
• different ways of providing access that do not entail ownership
for example subsidised rents and transport.
‘An uneducated society has never existed.’ Discuss.

Answers are likely to:

• consider what may be understood by ‘an uneducated
society’ consider the various forms of education throughout
history
• make a judgement based on a consideration of the evidence
and argument put forward.

Answers might include discussions and examples such as:

• education begins from birth, learning to walk and talk
parents pass on skills, such as cooking and farming people
who cannot read or write are considered as illiterate
• education existed in early times, the Greeks, Romans and
Egyptians for example
• education can take place in informal or formal settings, with
various teaching methods
• societies may have different views on education, for
example women in education.
Assess the reasons for the decline of religious observance in
some societies.
Answers are likely to:
• consider the decline of religions and suggest reasons for this
• outline reasons as to why there is a lack of proof
• consider the fact that followers of some religions are, in fact,
growing in numbers.
Answers may include:
• developments in science and reason eclipsing religion as
people view beliefs more intellectually and objectively,
attaching less importance to the teachings of holy books
• discussion of the role of worship in a fast-paced society with
many competing distractions
• decline of institutionalised religion in some parts of the world
• religion has become more diverse and humanistic
• the role of education in religion and increasing secularisation
• repression of religious practices in some societies
• generational differences in attitudes to religious practice
• decline of religious writings and teachings forming the basis
of cultural fabric, rules and ethics
• the counter argument that some religions are, in fact,
increasing their number of followers
• the growth of religious broadcasting and use of the internet
have modernised religious practices.
‘The legacy of colonialism is alive today in many forms.’
Discuss.
Answers are likely to:
• consider what may be understood by colonialism
• consider whether colonialism still has any effect today
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• there have been colonies throughout history; powerful
groups take over weaker societies and this still happens today
• the society affected by colonialism may lose its culture,
language and freedom – link to globalisation
• many became slaves and modern slavery continues to be a
legacy
• the legacy has led to disputes over borders, political unrest
and sometimes wars
• legacies may be education, a political process and religions
• many artefacts were removed and are now being reclaimed
from the colonisers
• different forms of colonialism e.g. trans-national corporations
• impact may be felt by the (former) colonisers in terms of guilt
and reparations
To what extent is continued global population growth
sustainable and desirable?
Answers are likely to:
• consider sustainability and desirability of population growth
• show an understanding of the advantages and
disadvantages of global population growth
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• childhood survival due to improved health care and diet
• these perceptions and issues will vary by region and other
socio-economic factors
• global population currently above 7.3 billion and estimated to
reach 9.7 bn by 2050 and 11.2 bn by 2100
• pressures of demand for water, food, energy, infrastructure
and services such as education, health and social care
• effects on land and environment at global and local level
• short-term gains in working population to support ageing
populations
• quality of life issues; congestion, pressure on services and
the state e.g. provision of welfare, pensions, etc.
• ‘pressure points’ in population growth may drive innovation
in technology, for example farming on marginal land, GM
crops, creative housing solutions.
‘Beautiful spaces enhance personal well-being.’ Examine
whether such spaces are valued and maintained in your
country.
Answers are likely to:
• define well-being
• consider how beautiful spaces enhance well-being
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• public parks in cities and towns, recreation and meditation,
public art and sculpture
• escape from noise pollution as these spaces offer a
sanctuary and an opportunity to hear birdsong, for example
• areas and places not confined to parks and outdoors areas
– can be found in hospitals, hospices, schools, for example
• promotion of relaxation, reduction of stress, opportunities to
socialise for old and young
• can offer space for a variety of pursuits from sport to the
artistic • space restrictions mean that open spaces often stand
in the way of development
• cost implications of maintaining these areas; funding is
needed elsewhere.
Identify the unique characteristics of a city in your country and
explain the extent to which these characteristics are
significant.
Answers are likely to:
• consider the unique characteristics of a city
• explain the extent to which they are significant
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• how buildings and architecture contribute to the shape of a
city, the lives of its inhabitants and impressions of those who
visit it
• specific communities give colour and life to a city and its
identity
• entertainment venues such as theatres, sports stadiums,
clubs and music venues may be considered
• geographical location and iconic landmarks may be
significant
• places of worship such as cathedrals, synagogues,
mosques and temples, are often central features
• traditions such as festivals, parades, and trades, even
markets and processions
• individuals associated with the city for various reasons:
political, military, philanthropic, etc.
Examine whether or not the human race might benefit from
the development of more technologically advanced weapons.
Answers are likely to:
• identify past conflicts and their results as a guide to possible
future developments
• consider benefits/downsides of technological advances
• make a judgement, based on the consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• brief overview of key developments in history
• nuclear war and missiles can actually deter conflict
• wartime economy does focus a nation's efforts for peaceful
purposes
• many medical advances are hastened by military surgery
• 'smart' weaponry might minimise loss of life
• biological/chemical weapons are cheap and indiscriminately
lethal
• problem of controlling weaponry when users are indifferent
to their own deaths
• there is a danger that more remote control of weapons
means that signs of surrender might be missed.
‘Sport can unite people as well as divide them.’ Discuss.
Answers are likely to:
• discuss the effect that sport can have on people as
participants and supporters
• consider the effect that sport can have on nations,
communities and individuals
• make a judgement, based on the consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• reference to how individuals and teams have a following that
is constant and fanatical
• views concerning the behaviour and examples set by
individual sports persons and teams
• sport can unite people in times of conflict
• intense rivalries have caused disunity that goes beyond
sports competition
• racial discrimination and tensions have affected the
reputation of some sports
• the public opinion of major sporting icons can change due to
misdemeanours in their private lives
• some sporting events can bridge all differences
• own experience of being in a team.
‘Religious belief in the existence of a creator cannot be based
on an argument or scientific investigation.’ Discuss.
Answers are likely to:
• consider the idea of a creator, and the survival of religion
• consider the impact of scientific investigation on religious
belief
• make a judgement, based on the consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• references to faith and reason in theological or scientific
texts
• revelation is taken seriously by many believers as evidenced
in their devotion
• science and religion are not necessarily incompatible as
testified to by the immense interest in science taken by
religions over the centuries
• many eminent physicists and philosophers are/were of a
religious persuasion
• religion, like, science, offers hope not despair, though they
may also envisage a bleak future
• the natural world is forever revealing itself in unexpected
ways for example the discovery of new planets and solar
systems.
To what extent are the problems of traffic congestion being
effectively dealt with in your country?

Answers will be focused on one country with which the

candidate identifies or to which they direct their answer.

Answers are likely to:

• review the current state of traffic congestion in the chosen
country
• consider whether the problems are being effectively dealt
with
• make a judgement, based on the consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• improving road networks by adding lanes
• traffic management systems
• encouraging bicycle use
• encouraging the use of public transport
• pedestrianisation of city centres as well as restrictions
placed on vehicles entering certain areas
• tackling environmental problems caused by traffic pollution
• some countries have poor public transport infrastructure
• encouraging car sharing and park and ride schemes
• the need for incentives for people to use cars less
• public awareness campaigns.
The government of Qatar has laid down the following
domestic guidelines: use leftovers, eat plants, cook at home,
conserve water.

Suggest whether or not your country should adopt such an

approach.
Answers are likely to:
• consider whether or not own country should adopt such an
approach
• consider the viability of these measures
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• health-related issues
• dietary implications
• the role of education to encourage this approach
• economic considerations
• social and religious considerations
• environmental implications
• government cannot enforce such guidelines
Evaluate the contribution of any politician or political party to
the development of your country.

Answers will be focused on one country with which the

candidate identifies or to which they direct their answer.
Answers are likely to:
• describe the work and achievement of an individual or
political party
• consider the value of their achievements and the effects this
has had on the country; these could be positive and negative
• undertake some evaluation of how the country has
developed as a result, or in spite of, their actions.
Answers may include:
• a celebration of how an individual or group changed the face
and fate of a nation (for example in guiding a country through
independence or leading a country in time of conflict)
• reference to a new and controversial style of political beliefs
and standards that saw an end to a long-established system
of government
• outline laws that have been changed or introduced that have
made a difference because of an individual or party
• consider negative actions taken by an individual or party that
have damaged a country (possibly linked to how the country
subsequently recovered)
• historical reference to those who founded a nation and
provided the basis and framework for future generations to
build upon; even though these historical examples may seem
outdated, their fundamental principles may still be in place
• evaluate successes and failures rather than simply focusing
on positive achievements.
‘Animals should be given the same rights as humans.’
Discuss.

Answers are likely to:

• show understanding of the terms ‘self-aware’ and ‘intelligent’

• demonstrate a preparedness to question our own superiority
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and arguments put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• can be argued that animals only demonstrate emotion
depending on external circumstances
• humans may have spirituality, awareness of themselves,
and creativity, oral, manual, and intellectual
• our tendency to see animals in a generic way, not as
individuals within a species, so we talk about ‘sheep’,
‘elephants’ and so on thereby ignoring individuals of the
species
• evidence of kinship and grief among various animals, for
example elephants, dolphins, and apes
• complex language has been observed amongst various
species and there is evidence of problem solving particularly
among primates
• animals are more attuned to the natural world than we are –
sixth sense, for example their ability to sense weather
changes, danger and distress in humans
• respect for other species does not preclude our exploitation
of them, for example hunter-gatherers.

Evaluate the importance of public sports facilities for a society

that is increasingly inactive.
Answers are likely to:
• consider the notion of an ‘increasingly inactive society’, the
value of sports participation and the requirement for facilities
• show an understanding of the reasons why sports facilities
should, or should not, be provided and/or funded
• analyse the economic, social and public health factors
involved
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples such as:
• how far societies are becoming ‘increasingly inactive’
• access to sports facilities such as leisure centres, swimming
pools, gyms and pitches for team sports may be considered
important for the maintenance of individual and public health
and well-being, and play a role in tackling obesity and related
health issues, with a consequent effect on the workforce and
economy, which may be a case for state or local
funding/subsidies
• participation in sports improves determination and
competitiveness, and offers a sense of achievement, while
team sports, especially, improve skills such as teamwork and
cooperation
• those who cannot afford gym membership etc. should not be
denied access to sports
• not all sports cost money for participants, e.g. running,
walking, use of public spaces for informal games and
activities
• relative responsibility of the state, local government, school
and family
• alternative funding priorities contrasted with longer-term
benefits of a potentially healthier population
• increased participation in sporting activities does not negate
the effects of poor diet, environment, genetics, education
and/or other activities detrimental to health and so may have
limited effect overall.
Assess the most efficient ways of transporting people and
goods in your country.
Answers are likely to:
• identify current transport problems and/or successes • define
‘effectiveness’ in relation to transport
• show an understanding of the advantages and
disadvantages of different methods of transportation
• make a judgement, based on a consideration of the
evidence and argument put forward. Answers might include
discussions and examples such as: • what is good for the
environment in both rural and urban areas • what is
economically viable for individuals, industry and the
government • the different needs of individuals, for example
the old and infirm, those needing medical assistance • the
need to have a transport network that facilitates international
trade and those companies reliant on ‘Just In Time’
production models; access to airports and railway systems •
depending on the country, cars may no longer be fit for
purpose because of congestion and pollution; alternative
modes of transport, for example trains, canals and bicycles •
declining reserves of oil and alternative sources of energy
such as solar may lead to other forms of transport becoming
more cost effective • reduced need for mass transport
systems as a result of developments in communication
technology.
Evaluate the actions which could be taken in your country to
improve the welfare of disadvantaged people. Answers should
be focused on one country with which the candidate identifies
or to which they direct their answer. Answers are likely to: •
consider which groups are disadvantaged in the chosen
country • show an understanding of the reasons behind their
difficulties, the current provision and its effectiveness •
analyse social, political, economic and cultural elements
which may lead to improvement • make a judgement, based
on a consideration of the evidence and argument put forward
Answers might include discussions and examples such as: •
those disadvantaged on socio-economic, cultural or religious
grounds; or due to physical or mental impairments, their age,
gender or sexual orientation etc. • state support such as the
welfare and benefits system, education, health care provision,
pensions and social care • role of legislation in reducing
discrimination, for example in the workplace • involvement of
non-governmental bodies such as charities, support groups
and individuals, which may include practical assistance,
fundraising, attempts to change social and cultural attitudes
and may be conducted through various means including new
media, thus increasing reach and access • recognition that
deep-seated cultural prejudice and historical mistreatment
may take time to erode and will not be achieved easily •
evaluation of proposed measures in terms of likely success or
limitations, which may include reference to other countries for
purposes of comparison.
‘Prison is ineffective in deterring criminal activity and
rehabilitating offenders.’ Examine the possible alternatives to
prison sentences. Answers are likely to: • consider the
purposes of prison as stated in the question • show an
understanding of the reasons why current provision may be
deemed effective or ineffective • analyse proposed alternative
measures • make a judgement, based on a consideration of
the evidence and argument put forward. Answers might
include discussions and examples such as: • prison
sentences may well not address existing underlying problems
offenders have, such as mental illness, drug addiction, or
socio-economic disadvantage (poverty, educational
achievement and employment prospects) • possible
alternatives for evaluation in terms of deterring and
rehabilitating might include education, mental health and
therapy, drug treatment programmes, restorative justice,
community service, capital punishment, and perceived
problems with prisons perhaps (depending on the country)
being seen as “too soft”, “schools for crime” and with ready
access to drugs • costs of more elaborate treatment
programmes as opposed to simply keeping offenders off the
streets may be considered, as well as public perception, other
funding priorities and the need for people to feel safe and that
justice has been served • evidence of effective prison systems
from around the world
‘The joy of sport is in taking part, rather than watching.’ To
what extent do you agree? Answers are likely to: • consider
the definition of sport • examine the value of participating and
watching sport, and how it can be interpreted • make a
judgement, based on a consideration of the evidence and
argument put forward Answers might include discussions and
examples such as: • sport can bring people together through
participation as a player, or as a supporter • it encourages
patriotism and support for local and national teams • can
encourage individuals to engage in a sport to become healthy,
though not always in a team, for example running • sport can
be financially rewarding, particularly in professional clubs,
many of which are owned by businesses • participation in
sport can be very competitive, with some athletes resorting to
drug taking in order to win • people from all walks of life,
young and old, can take part in sport by participation and
watching the event • can be divisive due to competition
between countries • professionals might take time to observe
sport so a
‘In the production of food, animal welfare should be a higher
priority than cost.’ To what extent do you agree? Answers are
likely to : • consider the various practices of farming • assess
the benefits and shortfalls of looking after the welfare of
animals in farming • make a judgement, based on a
consideration of the evidence and argument put forward.
Answers might include discussions and examples, such as: •
the welfare of animals, such as cows, sheep and chickens,
should be considered, as they too feel pain, as well as
humans • ethical farming requires more resources and space
for the animals • ethical farming may be healthier, as fewer
chemicals and hormones are used in the production of food •
there is a lot of poverty in the world and people cannot always
pay high prices for food • the number of vegetarians and
vegans is rising, thus farming practices may need to change
to accommodate this factor • factory farming and live transport
are cruel and can cause severe damage to the environment •
people may become immune to antibiotics, due to their use in
the rearing of animals.

‘International organisations, such as the World Health

Organization and the International Monetary Fund, have
become more important in recent years.’ To what extent do
you agree? Answers are likely to: • consider what might be
understood by international organisations • consider how
effective these organisations might be • make a judgement
based on a consideration of the evidence and argument put
forward. Answers might include discussions and examples
such as: • an organisation with international membership, for
example, the United Nations, UNICEF and the World Health
Organization • The UN organises peace keeping forces in
trouble spots around the world; this is dependent on all
members voting to support the motion; however, it is difficult
to help a nation where there is civil war • organisations may
be helpful in the short term, after a civil war etc. but the long
term can be hampered by poor long-term strategies, meaning
it is less effective • The Red Cross and The Red Crescent,
each have their own flag; they are recognised as being
neutral in war-torn countries and disaster areas and can be
very effective for this reason • organisations may focus on
specific areas, such as the Scout Movement, UNESCO, the
World Bank and IMF • organisations, such as Greenpeace
and Amnesty International, may encounter challenges
because of their agenda.

‘Inequality in life expectancy between the rich and poor is

growing.’ To what extent is health the responsibility of the
individual? Answers are likely to : • consider what is meant by
‘inequality’ • consider the barriers to accessing health care •
make a judgement, based on a consideration of the evidence
and argument put forward. Answers might include discussions
and examples such as: • individuals may not have the power
to make changes as they have no political platform • in many
countries health care is not free, so it is not a priority for those
living in poorer regions • diversion of funds into private care,
leaving fewer resources for the poor • access to health care is
limited to where people are living, e.g. rural areas • people
living in poverty are at greater risk of an early death, including
infant mortality • people without health care are more likely to
go to hospital as an emergency admission, which may be too
late • wealthy people can afford to live in less polluted areas •
they are more aware of the perils of junk food through
education but may not be able to afford the more healthy
options • keeping healthy and fit should be the responsibility
of the individual.