In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still go hungry. Why is this the case? What can be done about this problem?

 In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still go hungry. Why is this the case? What can be done about this problem?

Food crisis has incessantly continued to  haunt mankind despite radical improvements in farming methods and technological interventions. This predicament can be attributed to several factors, and scientists and policy makers across the world are struggling to locate practical solutions to surmount this impediment. 

A major hurdle to rendering a square meal a day to all across the globe has been a spike in the population. A close analysis reveals that rich bounties of harvest achieved by modern industrial agriculture are being dwarfed/offset by colossal increment in the  number of inhabitants. As many commentators suggest, this is leading to another major issue, paucity of arable land due to competition from initiatives for developing dwelling areas, limiting the area that can be  bought under cultivation, and seriously hampering any further enhancement in  the yields.

Similarly, inability of  poverty stricken countries to procure enough nourishment for their natives from highly commercialized global food markets, where prices rule the roost, is adding insult to injury. The rising demand for cereals and grains has led to sky-rocketing of prices that have inflated the food bills, leaving several impoverished economies lurching and facing a dilemma of whether to procure food, or other vital supplies, where the latter wins priority.

Nevertheless, there is still a ray of hope for the hungry human society. Many  propose that introducing vertical farming extensively can be a sustainable solution to this pressing issue since this can reduce the need to use vast stretches of land for farming, and also reduce production cost, by virtue of needing lesser water, fertilizers and  energy. Hence, global populace is going to grow unabated; thus, human society must focus on finding ways  to produce food cheaply and  in great abundance so that there is enough food to feed growing numbers.

Overall, scarcity of food is surely a pressing issue in times when society boasts of technological advancements in farming. In the wake of limitations imposed by several factors, there is a need to discover other methods that compliment improvements in the agricultural practices. 

More and more people decide to eat healthy food and exercise regularly. What are the reasons for this trend? What can be done to encourage more people to eat healthier and exercise?

More and more people decide to eat healthy food and exercise regularly. What are the reasons for this trend? What can be done to encourage more people to eat healthier and exercise?

 

Of late, people have been healthy embracing regimes, in terms of workouts and nutrient intake, to bolster their objectives, a commendable development. Nevertheless, accomplished health experts feel more needs to be done, and thus advocate methods to persuade others to toe the line.

Admittedly, a sound mental and health is the primary objective that is fueling the new found love for a balanced nutrition intake and physical exertion; however, they also aim to pursue other goals through such habit: retaining  youthful facades, and staying socially and professionally active. The contemporary lifestyles entail gluttony and sedentary ways of life which, in the long run, can make individuals vulnerable to ailments that may not only affect their personality and appearance but also hamper their work and social repute.

Moreover, this predisposition is fuelled by the conviction that adopting healthy lifestyles can help save humongous money otherwise squandered on seeking medical intervention – which is witnessing a spike. Many appreciate the fact that one invests efforts and time to earn money to enjoy the exploits of hard work and not spend it on visiting medical practitioners and healthcare facilities.

Engendering healthy habits is possible provided the governments, employers and communities form a synergy. Making physical fitness mandatory for privileges, promotions and incentives can go a long way in persuading even the most reluctant of individuals to fall in line. Additionally, the state offering free facilities and financial stimulus: gyms and guidelines for nutritional intake – to  dissuade people from unhealthy lifestyles can greatly help too.

Overall, this enlightenment among people about healthy lifestyles is laudable and exemplary, and efforts should be put in greater multitude to further this phenomena. This will aid in establishing a healthy society, capable of churning out excellent economic performance and leading happy and peaceful life. 

 

 

World history suggests that violence and and conflict were more evident under male leadership than under female leadership. So, for peace to prevail, female leadership can be considered as a better option than male leadership." To what extent do you agree or disagree?

 

World history suggests that violence and and conflict were more evident under male leadership than under female leadership. So, for peace to prevail, female leadership can be considered as a better option than male leadership." To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answers with relevant examples from your experience. Write at least 250 words. 

Looking at the violent past of the human race, many have come up with a suggestion of females leading society  to ensure a tranquil environment, others are in direct opposition of this view, and present their own opinion.  

The opinion about women taking up leadership positions in governance of a country is underpinned by the innate personality traits this gender possesses, which instead of being impulsive are more rational and well-reasoned. Such instincts imbibed them with the ability to delve deeper into the problems, analyse them from multiple angles, and derive practical ways out. This patient approach fuels pragmatism and helps evade discord and altercations even in the situation of hostilities with their rivals.

However, others are quite cynical of the former opinion and instead ridicule it. As per them, battles and tyrannical rules have been the outcomes of greed and hunger for power, which has rarely spared either of the genders: invasions to control more and more land as in the case of Americas for which the British and Spanish queens waged bloody battles: and conspiracies and assassinations to wrest power also involved as many queens as kings. 

Moreover, antagonism and rebellious uprisings in the face of suppression are not the outcomes of gender based attributes. When it comes to fighting for justice against oppressive regimes, or bringing revolutions, society has never waited for any particular sex, but followed those prepared to don the mantle and risk their lives, the Jon of Ark and Queen of Jhansi are the shining examples of leaders who put up armed resistance.

Overall,  I feel it is unfair to judge males as violent leaders and consider their female counterparts as better rulers. Gender can be determinant in clash of sexes but not in conflicts between countries and societies.

 

World history suggests that violence and conflict were more evident under male leadership than under female leadership. So, for peace to prevail, female leadership can be considered as a better option than male leadership. To what extent do you agree or disagree.

 

World history suggest that violence and conflict were more evident under male leadership than under female leadership. So, for peace to prevail, female leadership can be considered as a better option than male leadership. To what extend do you agree or disagree.

With reference to the global history many believe and suggest that more bloodbath took place when men were leading in comparison to that of women; thus, it is better that the latter should lead to let the peace and harmony prevail, to which others disagree.

 A section of society that agrees on this notion feels that men do have more rebellious and impulsive behavior. Unlike women, their ideology and methodology of resolving issues gives rise to either war and genocide or dominance over the other leaders. They have always been focused on their political aims without looking at the public or other factors. Whereas, women leaders are more averse to brutality and choose it only as a last resort. Their tendency of connecting with the public emotionally gives them a competitive edge over their counterparts, which influences them to look at all possible solutions to a problem rather than igniting conflicts. Thus, to let peace pervade, women leaders are a better option.

 

Nonetheless, other commentators profess that those who believe in the former notion are either gender biased or aim at women empowerment because violence and conflicts are a part of leadership responsibility and strategy which a leader has to adopt at some point of time, regardless of gender, to safeguard their country and interest of residents. They assert when in history itself, Cleopatra – the last queen of Egypt is renowned for her act of massacre, how a female leader can really be a viable option. 

 

In hindsight, when the question comes to ensuring a peaceful environment, I am of the opinion that irrespective of gender, such an option must be looked at who can act as a true leader with full integrity, loyalty and without any fear.  

Because of the global economy, many goods including what we use as daily basics produced by other countries have to be transported for a long distance. To what extent do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Because of the global economy, many goods including what we use as daily basics produced by other countries have to be transported for a long distance. To what extent do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

  

Highly globalized economy is supported by free international trade, with goods being sourced from and sold to distant locations,   that has captured even the markets of goods required for daily errands. The phenomenon has been hailed as highly beneficial by scores of economists despite some expressing displeasure.

This new phenomenon has brought around unprecedented advantages for the consumers who were forced to rely on local sources that were many a times dependent on various conditions, ranging from weather to economic conditions and even seasons. High prices were also a constraint for many and only a few could afford certain merchandise. However,  all that has changed now, with free global open trade policy in place, people can procure their desired commodities in variety of quality and types at affordable prices, regardless of the time of the year. 

Besides this, this fairly new arrangement has indirectly contributed to bolstering economies of many countries, even the impoverished ones, by generating commerce, and churning out employment across a cross-section  of skilled and unskilled workers. Exporting, or importing  trade entails establishment of several distinct multiple phases, and every step mandates investment of money and manpower, churning business and jobs in the process.   

Nonetheless, one cannot ignore the problems selling and  buying goods from other parts of  has brought along, pollution in various manifestations: air and ecological damages. As most of the transportation modes heavily rely on fossil fuels, frequent movement  of goods carriers in form of ocean freighters, cargo airplanes, and  trains and road haulers to name a few has heightened environmental pollution.

In hindsight, I opine despite all doubts and reservations, the benefits or transnational trade far exceed its pitfalls though ways must be discovered to minimize damage to the environment caused by increasing transport activity.

The development of science and technology has been accompanied by a decline in traditional culture. Do you think that this has a negative impact on our life?

 “The development of science and technology has been accompanied by a decline in traditional culture. Do you think that this has a negative impact on our life?”

Scientific and technological forays have influenced society profoundly in all spheres, completely transforming the way people live and interact with their surroundings, consequently, making many believe that conventional ways of life are fading away, thus negatively affecting people  though it does not seem to be the case as per the progressive lobby. 

Pessimism seems to have descended upon the camp of purists due to the way people have shifted from  meeting in person to communicating with their familial, social and professional circles. There is a fear, the proliferation of this not so old phenomenon is gradually pushing people into cloistered living, away and isolated from the outer world. This, as per many traditionalists going to detach people from their native roots, eventually impeding perpetuation of traditions and beliefs.   

Nevertheless, those supporting the technological developments allay the fears of the counterproductive impact infusion of technology, in day to day life, is having on the customs. The modern settings have helped refine the culture by helping detach superstitions from undiluted forms of beliefs. This has in a way assisted people to appreciate the true value and relevance of their ways of life, traditional practices and the customs.

Moreover, undeniably technology may have usurped the long-established ways of living but for better; thus questioning the very rationale of any adverse impact of technological interventions. New innovations are now informing individuals more conclusively about their past, rituals, ancestors, holy literature and scriptures, thereby increasing their affinity to their native customs and  bringing   communities closer.

Overall, I strongly believe the scientific technological discoveries have for sure influenced the conventional beliefs and displaced some, but this has not at all adversely impacted the lives of the people since they can now distinguish between the illusions and pure traditions. 

 

Some say that when a person achieves success in their job, it means that he/she is selfish and doesn’t care about others. Do you agree or disagree?

 

Some say that when a person achieves success in their job, it means that he/she is selfish and doesn’t care about others. Do you agree or disagree?      

 

There is a common perception that accomplishments make one self-centered and apathetic to others around. Nevertheless, this notion is often challenged vehemently by a lobby that out rightly  rejects the former claim.

Ridiculing winners and calling them as self-centered is outrageous. Being triumphant in life needs one to go into self deprivation and focus all energies on attaining objectives. During this process, it becomes incumbent for individuals to make sacrifices of comforts and luxuries otherwise enjoyed by their kith and kin. However,  once they reach the pinnacle, the exploits of their attainments are laid for everyone, around such  individuals, to consume and derive pleasure. For instance, accomplished sport personnel usually toil it hard on the playground to sustain their performance, their nears and dears lead a life of luxury, an outcome of the struggle of the former.  

 

Moreover, being resentful towards triumphant individuals is quite inappropriate looking at the contributions accomplishments of such people make to the society. These people devote their life, face adversities, and pay high personal costs to innovate, which in turn benefits the society. There have been several precedents where the hard earned success of some people paved the way for betterment of human life. 

 

Nevertheless, there are some, although in negligible numbers, fit this statement perfectly. There have been instances where those achieving professionally have become absorbed in self glorification, and flaunting their trophies of extremely rare victories. Such people generally range from poor to mediocre who use unfair means to become successful, if such individuals left at their own devices, they would fail miserably. 

 

To conclude, I thus fail to concur with this statement and instead feel that those who conquer the peaks tend to create benchmarks for others and let others use their attainments for their own purpose. 

 

When it comes to research on family history, some people prefer not to dig into the past, instead they just focus on their future. Discuss the positives and negatives of this approach and include your own opinion.

 

Many opine that exploring past evidence is worthless and one should look towards the future, but, there are voices of dissent, nonetheless, suggesting that this might be impractical action and have unfavorable effects.

Many feel that ignoring the family past deprives one of several benefits. Such a practice gives an opportunity to discover the values and culture of family of concerned individuals, a miss. This could be very helpful, especially, during hiring workers, or looking for a suitable matrimonial match. A well rooted and cultured person will prove to be an asset but not exploring the background might result in selection of a wrong person which can impair the new relationships in making. 

Moreover, information of family background is very incumbent for learning about the genetics and heredity of an individual. This data can be very useful for medical practitioners and researchers for treating or developing cure for dangerous diseases and ailments. But, if one forgoes the exhaustive investigation of family history, it will be impossible to pinpoint the source and intensity of ailment and recommend suitable medical intervention.   

Nonetheless, there are others who are for this view, feeling that it can have unfavorable consequences. The information extracted may be misleading as it cannot be guaranteed that the process by which the inputs were gathered, was reliable and unbiased; thus, casting a shadow on legitimacy of facts. Furthermore, revelation of past information can prove to be a traumatic experience for many, causing psychological setbacks, propelling people towards depression and anxiety. 

Overall, despite there being certain disadvantages attributed to this proposition, I opine that change is inevitable and it must be embraced gracefully without prejudice; therefore, it is practical to overlook the need to delve into the backgrounds

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Change has  been a controversial issue which has seen people living at poles with some supporting and embracing it, others alarmed at the very idea of it. Both the factions have justified reasons to support their views.   

The conservatives like traditional patterns and forego any alterations because they are not willing to step outside their comfort zone, or are not confident enough to face new challenges; thus, they prefer to remain within  the confinements of their predefined norms and  conventions. Moreover, many feel following the same routine over day in day out can help them master their skills. Furthermore, the fear of uncertainty of the unknown also inhibits people from attempting modifications or deviations. For example, transition in position or status often worries many as they fear that they may not be able to manage new tasks successfully; therefore, they believe in sustaining themselves in the same patterns.    

Nevertheless, for many, change is the only constant. For this lobby, as  the world is evolving constantly, so are the preferences and habits of the people. There are several who draw parallels of changes with innovation that helps break the mold of the past that is little more than mundane and let a fresh perspective and methods emerge that promise freshness and betterment. For others, stepping out of comfort zones is an adventure which might seem challenging at first, it will turn out to be a rewarding pursuit in the long run, later. A new job, for instance, might present challenges, but help acquire new knowledge and skill sets to augment future endeavours.

On the whole, in my view, despite both views being correct in their own virtue and  reasoning, embracing change is imperative to learn new things and explore potential for betterment.

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

 

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

There are disparate approaches regarding handling living conditions, where a section is quite conservative and  is prepared to accept the prevalent conditions despite being poor, others intend to strive to bring about a transformation for betterment.

Most learn to compromise with their existing circumstances, be it in the professional or personal realms, perceiving it as their destiny,  even if they are surviving in deprivation,  and a matter of fate. They feel that they have been chosen or condemned to lead such a life, probably an outcome  their past deeds, or perhaps the god wants to refine their eternal  persona. Such individuals feel that nothing can help  them even if they want to alter their surroundings, and thus remain happy with  whatever they have.

Similarly,  such individuals are quite nervous when  it comes to embarking upon endeavors that could help ameliorate their living  conditions and dread debacles. There is constant  fear among  such people that any attempt made to lift themselves up and better their state of affairs might result in losses which could deprive them of whatever they have with them currently, fetching them misery and exacerbating their problems.

However, there are those who are not prepared to surrender to their circumstances, and are likely to take initiatives to surmount the difficulties, or unpleasant situations. Such individuals believe that they have been gifted with the skill of imagination and the capability to work hard, besides, a propensity to take risks, making it obligatory for them to embark upon endeavors aimed at bringing around improvements in the circumstances.

Overall, although both the opinions are well founded, I personally feel that attempting to alter the situation is a desirable action and one must always strive to raise their living standards and bolster their financial condition. 

 

Some people think that schools should select students according to their academic abilities, while others believe that it is better to have students with different abilities studying together. Discuss both views and state your own opinion.

Some people think that schools should select students according to their academic abilities, while others believe that it is better to have students with different abilities studying together. Discuss both views and state your own opinion.    

In order to make learning  more meaningful, many educationalists  have started proposing creating a bifurcation among the fast and slow learners in their formative years. This has initiated a  profound debate since many out rightly reject the former view.

Short listing learners as per their abilities to grab things can help save time and efforts of both, teachers and pupils. Tutors can stay focused on uniform strategies  that address the requirements of learners specifically. For instance, a setting that is populated with young learners who excel in academics, would need a method that facilitates rapid learning, while a class that has slow learners needs the sessions to be more explicit and slow to allow slow learners to grasp the content.  

Moreover, tutors will be spared of flak from students with the latter blaming them  for harboring partisan attitude towards bright or dull pupils. Admittedly, in  mixed ability classes, the progress often relies on collective outcomes, quite unwelcoming for those quick at grasping content. They complain of teachers deliberately slowing down the process to aid academically weaker. Same is true of the slow learners who often feel alienated with teachers involving brighter pupils in discussions.

Nevertheless,   critics of such settings assert that adopting this kind of practice will mean defeating the very purpose of education and promoting a permanent wedge between the learners quite early on which may become insurmountable later. The fundamental principle of formal tuition is promoting equality along with instilling wisdom and not training young minds to harbor ill-feelings for each other.

Hence, it can be said that harboring such discriminatory system will do more harm than good. In order to bolster excellence, basic tenets of education should not be abandoned, so I detest the arrangement of segregation and selective enrollment of pupils. 

Some people prefer to go to health clubs and gyms for health care, but some say that walking and climbing stairs are more effective. Discuss both and give your own opinion.

 

Some people prefer to go to health clubs and gyms for health care, but some say that walking and climbing stairs are more effective. Discuss both and give your own opinion.

   

Physical and mental wellbeing has always been of paramount importance for a good quality of life. But, when it comes to choosing methods to ensure this, people have disparate choices, some prefer to go for a walk and climb stairs while others choose gymnasium and health centres.

Many, even in the modern age, opt for  taking a stroll in the parks, or on the road besides favouring stairs instead of lifts and escalators, for they feel that this age old method does not require one to take out time out of the busy schedule to sweat it out. Moreover, this practice happens to be quite economical, or rather virtually free, one does not need to subscribe to expensive memberships, or invest in buying costly gears, and food supplements.

Furthermore, it is undeniable that this form of exercise guarantees minimal injuries, except a few instances of cramped muscles, one does not find any major issues surfacing that keep them away from their routine efforts or work. Similarly, as seasoned health and fitness practitioners suggest,  this manifestation of physical workouts can be carried out by all age groups, and over a long duration of time.

Nevertheless, there is a lobby that  approves a visit to gymnasium to attain their objectives of physical fitness. For this group, pumping iron, a short burst over a treadmill and performing aerobics to name a few under the watchful eyes of expert trainers helps not only tone up their physique within a specified period of time but also let them follow a balanced routine. 

Overall, I feel that the method embraced by both the groups help them  accomplish their health objectives as per their own aspirations. The real aim behind any endeavour undertaken for physical workouts should be sustaining robust health.  

Children playing team sports learn life skills. Do you agree or disagree.

Children playing team sports learn life skills. Do you agree or disagree.

Tutoring young minds about diverse spheres of life is an arduous task, but as per a few,  some burden can be eased by encouraging them to participate in team sports. There are, however, voices of disapproval over this issue.

Undeniably, participation in sporting disciplines that need whole team to play together can help drive in rich benefits for the growing minds: they learn an extremely critical lesson about social behavior when they interact with their team mates and learn to comprehend their personalities and words, and also reciprocating. Another very important personality trait fostered  through such activities is the spirit of team work and bearing the collective responsibility. Both these skills can prove to be pivotal in their success as adults, both in the professional and personal realms. 

Moreover, youngsters undertaking sports as team players  obtain crucial learning about emotionally supporting and inspiring each other; helping co-players bounce back from bad performances. This can prove to be invaluable for young individuals since as they grow up,  they inculcate empathy towards others, rather than remaining apathetic and self centered. On top of that, it is the team sports that carves out successful leaders and also those who follow orders.

However, there are those who out rightly reject the notion of team sports coaching children about practical life skills. Sporting activity in any manifestation, is a noisy way of exerting oneself and burning calories, and nothing more than that. This lobby proposes that young minds despite being inquisitive rarely absorb any knowledge unless it is transferred to them in the form of instructions.

In hindsight, controversies apart, team sports is considered to be laden with several benefits for the juveniles: they can grab essential skills that can help them grow as successful individuals empathetic to the society.

Changing jobs and residences frequently is a very common scenario nowadays. Do you believe that this is good for one's future?"

Changing jobs and residences frequently is a very common scenario nowadays. Do you believe that this is good for one's future?"

Switching employment and shifting place of living frequently is a new normal today. Whatever the source of this new found love may be, this new human propensity can influence lives both adversely, as well as positively. 

Changing employment, in a way, is surely a path that often leads to faster career progression. Although hopping jobs is prone to hardships, it opens up doors to broader opportunities, sometimes in a multitude of ways that one might have never imagined, bringing in rich returns.   Those  taking risks are bound to gain multifariously, in terms of monetary and non-monetary benefits, higher positions in the hierarchy, a once in a blue moon opportunity to learn something new that might help in approaching and obtaining alternative skills within a given occupation.

Similarly, when one shifts place of dwelling whether within the same or other city, or even country, they are exposed to new surroundings with diverse environments, in terms of neighborhood, attitudes of people, weather and even facilities. This lays an opportunity at the disposal of people to experience the difference and  develop a broader world view, turning them more receptive, liberal  and eventually rational.

However, there are certain failings of this inclination. Many are left feeling alienated, since many cannot rapidly acclimatize to the new working environment and  ethics, by virtue of not being accepted readily older workers, making one to  start from the scratch again. Similarly, when one changes a dwelling unit, they often find it hard to the adapt to surroundings and living conditions that can affect physical and mental wellbeing. 

In hindsight, whatever the reasons those living solitary may offer, I strongly feel that independent life is not as pleasurable as it may seem. It should be a short phase rather than a permanent arrangement.   

Many people believe that reducing speed limit is the best option for road safety improvement. Do you think there are other measures that could be put in place? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

 Many people believe that reducing speed limit is the best option for road safety improvement. Do you think there are other measures that could be put in place? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Rising incidence of road accidents has prompted many to suggest imposing speed limits to afford road safety. This approach has its own set or favorable and unfavorable outcomes, but on a serious note there is hardly any alternative available to this setting.

Many who are sceptical  of the proposal of prohibiting high speed driving claim that the mishaps occur due to poor road sense and negligent attitude of the drivers, which stem from the liberal approach adopted by authorities  in extending licenses and imposing penalties. They suggest that if zero tolerance were exercised, and  offenders severely penalized, those driving recklessly would be forced to adhere to driving norms. 

This lobby cites  the detrimental impact lowering speeds can have on the people and the environment. Slower traffic will cause an increment in travelling times, stress levels, and pollution. People will be forced to leave their homes or offices earlier to reach their destinations on time, or run the risk of reaching late, causing unprecedented stress. Additionally, vehicles moving at a snail’s pace will result in traffic snarls/jams, thereby raising the emission levels due to increased use of fuels.

 

However, notwithstanding all the criticism, which lacks substance, curtailing the driving speed is a practical solution. With such a law in place, drivers will be persuaded to limit their instincts of driving fast; thus, giving themselves room and time to judge and react to an abrupt situation on the  road ahead which may include conditions of the traffic and the roads, and also pedestrians appearing out of nowhere suddenly, consequently, averting accidents. 

 

Hence, controversies apart, I strongly feel that imposing a speed control law is the need of the hour even though this may have certain drawbacks, but the safety of those using the roads cannot be compromised.

 

Many cities are replacing cars with bicycles. What are the reasons for this? Which do you think is better? Dictated Essay

 Many cities are replacing cars with bicycles. What are the reasons for this? Which do you think is better? 

Many cities are replacing cars with bicycles

Of late, several cities across the world have been opting for bicycles and discouraging the use of personal four wheelers. This can be attributed to numerous causes, the planners cite humongous benefits of such a swing. However, some still feel the cars are irreplaceable.

The most prominent motivation behind urban authorities bringing in bicycles and shelving cars is to ease up road congestion. Over the past few years, the number of private four wheelers had witnessed a spike, resulting in traffic snarls, thereby dramatically reducing the travelling speeds: in some cities the traffic struggles at speeds as slow as 10km per hour. Reintroducing cycles has helped remove a large number of four wheelers, providing  much relief to the road users by cutting down the travelling times.

Another objective that the local governments have been able to attain, afford safer roads to the city dwellers. Since cars have nearly disappeared from such urban landscapes, the incidence of reckless driving has drastically diminished. Consequently, the number of road mishaps involving erring car drivers have dwindled. The studies of surroundings suggest that the road users feel more secure while traversing across the city.

The use of cars finds favors with those wedded to the idea of travelling along with their family wherever they go. For such people, pedaling individually is quite unappealing: they do not get opportunity to share the lighter movements, whereas while using a car they can derive the pleasure by being together, sharing their views and concerns, and experiencing excitement  of moving together.

Overall, I strongly feel that even though choosing bicycles instead of cars for the urban surroundings is surely a positive move, completely abandoning the use of the latter is nearly impossible, especially in the contemporary times when people face scarcity of time.  

Nowadays schools should not use textbooks because children get bored with books. Using games, computers and TV is a better way to give them new information and knowledge. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

 

Nowadays schools should not use textbooks because children get bored with books. Using games, computers and TV is a better way to give them new information and knowledge. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Of late many progressive educationalists have been pushing for replacing conventional books with modern methods such as  games, computers  and TV for imparting learning at formal tuition, citing it to be more appealing than the  latter though this has also fetched flak from the several quarters.   

Books are no longer required when learners can be imparted knowledge with the help of modern means that carry numerous benefits. These methods  will allow students to learn at their own pace since these e-books can be accessed from any media device and also can be resumed from where they have left. Moreover, it will provide ease of use since numerous material from a single device which saves them from the mundane task of carrying books of different subjects along everyday to the school.

Moreover, the appealing mix of sound – narration accompanied with music- and graphics – that may contain,  videos,  animation, pictures and figures as a part of the content  – present a potentially more attractive technique of learning and transferring knowledge: accessing these mediums can provide easy comprehensible inputs which can be not effortlessly grasped but also retained for long periods, by all, making learning an enriching experience.

Nevertheless,  many spar over this suggestion fearing that such leaning although may feed more information than the traditional arrangement, the young learners are bound to become bereft of imagination, eventually obliterating their creativity and critical thinking. However, induce young minds to visualize what they  read, consequently augmenting their resourcefulness. Depriving young minds of printed  text could have unwarranted consequences.

Overall, superseding books with modern methods will not be in favor of young learners in my view. Although the onslaught of  technology into the education cannot be stemmed, it should be integrated with other methods rather than being made the only means.    

 

Some people believe that it is better to build new museums and town halls instead of renovating the old ones. To what extend do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion and relevant examples from your own experience.

 

Some people believe that it is better to build new museums and town halls instead of renovating the old ones. To what extend do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion and relevant examples from your own experience.

A topical debate is going-on, on the issue of whether old infrastructure of museums and town halls should be replaced by new buildings, or should they be renovated. Many are in favor of renovation, but others think it is better to replace old structures.

Refurbishment of old monuments such as museums and town halls is essential and must be practiced rather than replacing such facilities with new designs. Doing so is imperative because these buildings represent the heritage and history of the past decades. Their architectural designs and art work is the foundation for several new learning and courses, that can aid new learners to understand the principles of architecture.

Moreover, these setups are quite close to people who have spent their life by working or enjoying their adulthood in or around these buildings. For such individuals these monuments are a part of nostalgia, and demolishing these establishments may hurt their sentiments and emotions. Thus, restoration is considered to be a more practical step.

However, some planners feel that these buildings not only present a serious threat of crumbling and jeopardizing lives but also affect the environment adversely due to high consumption of electricity required to keep the premises illuminated, ventilated and heated. By replacing these structures with new eco-friendly designs, authorities will be able to address the challenges of environmental safety and human life, and utilize the same space more productively, leaving enough space to address the other more pressing issues such as addressing parking problems by offering underground parking facilities.  

Therefore, I personally feel that old museums and town halls must be replaced by new concepts. This way both the cultural and societal aspect of a city can be addressed and preserved hand in hand. 

Many people believe that today there is a general increase in anti-social behavior and lack of respect for others. What might have caused this situation? How to improve it?

 

Many people believe that today there is a general increase in anti-social behavior and lack of respect for others. What might have caused this situation? How to improve it?

 

The times are turning tumultuous with everyone losing patience and not minding causing harm to others if need arises. There are a host of causes for that can be attributed to this not so new attitude, but one needs to find ways to mitigate this situation as soon as possible.

 

Ever widening social divide, based on socioeconomic conditions, is making fault lines between the haves and have-nots surface prominently, the sum total of the consumerist society. Where the elite enjoy the exploits of the riches they have amassed, the impoverished find themselves struggling to make their both ends meet. In the contemporary times, unlike the past, when consumer attitudes rule the roost, everybody is bitten by the bug of desire of possessing every imaginable comfort, and when unable to afford, people resort to snatching by force, resulting in crimes. 

 

Moreover, simmering frustrations often give way to scornful behavior. Many today are leading a life of stress and are overwhelmed by the need to address all their obligations without complaining. This results in building up anxiety, and as tensions grow, even the slightest of provocations, cause the release of pent up stress in form of violent behavior against others that is often disrespectful.

 

Nevertheless, discovery of a viable mechanism can help reduce the disparities. Governments and social groups can play a great role in this, by helping those lacking  access to all comforts, to afford minimum subsistence. Besides this, individuals too need to strike a balance between different spheres of their lives and not let diverse realms overlap each other.

 

Hence,   timely intervention from the government, communities and individuals can surely turn the table on the adversity of such monumental dimension; however  any laxity can further exacerbate the situation and turn it into a crisis.

Smoking not only harms the smoker, but also those who are nearby. Therefore, smoking should be banned in public places. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Smoking not only harms the smoker, but also those who are nearby. Therefore, smoking should be banned in public places.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Growing incidence of disease and disorders due to use of cigarettes has prompted several eminent health experts to propose prohibiting consumption of this material in public. This has although received an overwhelming support from various quarters, some are quite annoyed at this and term it a biased resolution. 

A sizable majority rallies behind the idea of forbidding smoking when in public. Their opinion is gains support from the health vulnerabilities of those affected by the unwanted inhalation of the carbon dioxide and monoxide emanating from side stream of every puff. The hazardous ingredients contained in the fumes expose passive smokers more to lethal ailments linked to respiratory disorders and terminal diseases to name a few, than the active smokers themselves.

Moreover, the stink of smoke emanating from tobacco based products is disgusting for those not consuming such substances, causing inconvenience and unease. Many profess why they should be subjected to unpleasant experience for the sake of those obsessed to this habit. If one must fulfill their desire of getting a dose of nicotine for exciting their senses, they should do it privately rather than forcing others to undergo torment and agony of bearing the stench of tobacco. 

Nevertheless, this proposal has fetched brickbats from dedicated smokers who question the act of proscribing this practice in public domain. They feel in an era where society is surrounded by various sources, like fossil fuel based transportation mediums and industry, that ooze contaminants and  pollutants profusely why are poor minority smokers being targeted. They term it as injustice and unwarranted.  

Overall, for public good, it will be quite prudent to disallow smoking publicly, if smokers must satisfy their cravings, they should choose their private realms so that their habit does not cause harm and inconvenience to others

Due to so many young people dropping out from school, rate of unemployment is going up and it affects our society in different ways. In your opinion, how can this situation be improved?

Due to so many young people dropping out from school, rate of unemployment is going up and it affects our society in different ways. In your opinion, how can this situation be improved?

School dropout rates have been rising despite enactment of several  rules to curtail such practice, resulting in joblessness and other more intense challenges for the society. This pressing issue needs to be addressed urgently by deploying radical methods.  

A direct intervention that can turn the situation around, is creating alternative educational streams, so that the young individuals quitting schooling, due to being unable to pursue the domains that match their aptitudes, can enroll in courses which address their aspirations and expectations. This would help them advance their expertise in their desired area, complete education, and obtain employable skills. 

 Additionally, authorities must deal with lapses in the current educational framework sternly. Efforts should be made to bring back the dropouts within the folds of education by enacting a system of entrance examinations, to facilitate entry into the higher educational institutions, which gauge the abilities of learners rather than drawing lines based on past academic accomplishments. This will help renew the interest of the young individuals in continuing with their education.

Similarly, a visionary approach might help in stemming this ever worsening trend: making education more adaptive and interactive instead of continuing with the obsolete arrangement of imparting lessons, using books and worksheets, which generally cause a great disenchantment among young minds. A generation completely immersed and influenced by technology in their other walks of life is least inclined pursue academic dreams with century old methods: they are rarely able to  make connection between booking knowledge and practical applications of interactive technology that fascinates them with more complex challenges.   

Hence, I feel the current educational framework needs to be revamped and be made  more adaptive to address the challenges facing the society today or which may surface later. It is impossible to walk forward while looking backwards