Some people believe watching films is a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe watching films is a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree?

There is an ongoing debate as some think that engaging with movies squanders time. However, I believe that this medium is a rich source of entertainment since these act as a great  leisure time endeavor. 

To begin with, globally, people watch movies in their leisure time for entertainment: a rich mix of visuals with audios engage viewers in a more interactive way: emotionally and psychologically, through inspirational, fiction, biographies, thrillers and comedy, among others, helping one unwind effectively. For instance, the University of Auckland, organised a weekend activity where they invited students and faculties for a movie show inside the campus after their usual day, and observed that people relaxed, and enjoyed, while watching the movie, and admitted that most of them used movies to rejuvenate and be with their close ones.

Similarly, this mode acts as a way to create and strengthen bonds between friends and family members since when watching a motion picture at home or in a cinema, the whole family or group stays together. To exemplify, Indian families children and elders watch movies together on their weekends and holidays, which helps them to spend some quality time together, after their busy weekday schedules, and for most of the respondents to a survey by Filmfare, this was a regular ritual. Also, people who watch movies expand their knowledge about different subjects such as culture, traditions and behavior of people in different countries, thereby broadening their perspectives.

To conclude, watching movies, instead of being a useless exercise, forms the most important part of leisure activity, which lifts mood and prepares viewers for the next task, and thus, these prove to be highly productive in multiple ways for every generation. 

The government should control the amount of violence in films and on television in order to decrease the violent crimes in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The government should control the amount of violence in films and on television in order to decrease the violent crimes in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is commonly perceived that policy makers should restrict content, portraying brutality, being shown on audio-visual media, to stem unlawful acts of violent nature. I partly concur with this notion, and will be elucidating my stand in the following paragraphs.  

To start with, television and motion pictures enjoy a profound influence on society,  and the way illegal acts exhibiting savagery are glamorized, viewers, especially juveniles,  try to emulate whatever they see on the screen. They consider such acts being taken as normal, and in the process, expose themselves, and others harmful consequences.   To exemplify, in 2010, a student of Delhi Public School, Bhopal, killed a classmate, and during the police investigation, the child said that he was performing an act from a DXY movie where the actor killed the negative character by pushing them from a 21st floor building for a stunt.

However, violent crimes cannot be controlled just by monitoring entertainment media, there are a myriad of other factors which play an important role such as poverty, mental-health issues, unemployment, well-being, lifestyle, locality, and most importantly,  lack of education. In most cases, it has been observed that those threatened by society, suffering from psychological issues, get involved in criminal endeavors that are brutal in nature. Curtailing such content on visual media will instead make society oblivious of such incidence of law breaking, and make it vulnerable to dire outcomes.  

To conclude, restricting the television and movies access may help reduce crime and violence to some extent, but I think this is unlikely to completely eliminate criminal undertaking aimed at harming others unless policymakers take prudent steps like educating society, rendering social security, employment, which will play a major catalyst in mitigating such a malady.

Tipping is a common practice at restaurants in many countries. Some people believe tipping is a great way to show service workers you appreciate them, while others believe it should be the responsibility of the boss or company to pay their workers. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Tipping is a common practice at restaurants in many countries. Some people believe tipping is a great way to show service workers you appreciate them, while others believe it should be the responsibility of the boss or company to pay their workers. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Why tips should be given. 

• Express gratitude for good services
• Helps motivate personnel to improve their levels of commitment 
• Encourages  personalized services 
• Helps compensate for low wages 
• Assists in keeping dining affordable  

It is the onus of employers 

• It is their onus since their workers  are serving 
• This can help prevent bias in service 
• Customers are paying service charges 
• Promote fairness of treatment among the staff 

Customers have been rewarding service personnel at eateries for an excellent dining experience for long, but some criticise this practise, and assert that compensating for work is the liability of the organization.The following paragraphs shall critically analyse this matter,and highlight the support for the system of offering tips.

Affording  some money in lieu of outstanding waiting is deemed as a way to express gratitude for the comforts extended while one is having food at the restaurant. Right from initial greetings and taking orders, to ensuring serving the correct combination of eatables and drinks, and clearing the table, needs one involved in negotiating these tasks, to have patience, and stay polite throughout the duration,and those exhibiting these qualities(virtues) should be recognised.For instance nearly 90% of visitors of establishments like Pind Baluchi admit, the brilliant administration of food, and affable behaviour of waiters, tempted them to render monetary rewards. 

Similarly, this arrangement is also helping the hospitality industry create an incentive for customer-facing workers to raise the standards of services, and interact with clients enthusiastically, thereby engendering a bonhomie(sweetness) between the organisation and its subscribers. Undeniably,this financial stimulant has aided various restaurants in creating loyalty among their clientele. 

Nevertheless, those against this setting, suggest that extending monetary stimulants for good service is the obligation of establishments since those visiting also pay service charges besides the food bills. However,this view lacks substance because serving guests is an extremely hard(arduous/taunting/complicated/uphill) job, and thus, if someone gains recognition for  demonstrating perfection, they are deserving candidates.

Therefore, this method of praising brilliant behaviour  and support provided by service  workers is quite justified; it boosts the morale of servers, and coaxes them to perform better, enhancing the image of their employers consequently.

Rewarding the service personnel at eateries is ubiquitous practice, for it is considered as an acknowledgement for an excellent dining  experience, but some disapprove of this practice, asserting that compensating for work is the liability of the organisation. However, the latter view is unconvincing and impractical.

Introduction 2

Many people believe that interviews are the most effective way to select suitable job candidates. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Many people believe that interviews are the most effective way to select suitable job candidates. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

In the contemporary era, employers believe that interviews are the suitable way to short list personnel. In this essay, I will be discussing this method of screening critically, and sharing a plausible conclusion.

Undeniably, evaluating interviewees for any jobs opening through face to face, or online assessment meetings  - usually carried out in multiple phases - helps recruiters to understand capabilities and match them with requirements for respective openings. This can assist in analyzing technical skills, and seasoning, and aid in determining whether the prospective worker would be able to respond to the work requirements of the organization. 

Having said that, some do not find this method efficient enough; many times, those appearing for interviews are nervous and scared, and thus are unable to express themself, and many highly talented and skilled people become nervous while reflecting upon their knowledge and are judged on that basis, and sometimes rejected. 

Likewise, in some circumstances, interviewers judge candidates just by appearance and personality, and lose highly knowledgeable workers due to biases. For example, some technically proficient individuals are overlooked due to them hailing from the countryside, and their technical skills are ignored. This makes it imperative, as per this lobby, to use other supplementary methods: psychometric and personal aptitude tests, along  with the traditional system of interviews.  For instance, mostly design companies have started integrating technical rounds and assignments for interior designers, architects and graphics designers to determine their knowledge of technical by-laws with anthropometry and out-of-the-box design skills which can only be understood through work samples and software skills at the same time.

To conclude, the interview definitely plays an important role while selecting employees with a combination of screening them without bias and providing an equal opportunity is the best and most effective way to select candidates.

The use of CCTV (close circuit television) cameras in streets, stations, shops and other public places has increased rapidly in recent years. Although we are told that these cameras help in the fight against crime, some people are opposed to their use, they believe that everyone has a right to privacy. (serve more as an invasion of our privacy than as a protection of our safety). To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The use of CCTV (close circuit television) cameras in streets, stations, shops and other public places has increased rapidly in recent years. Although we are told that these cameras help in the fight against crime, some people are opposed to their use, they believe that everyone has a right to privacy. (serve more as an invasion of our privacy than as a protection of our safety). To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Technology is evolving day-by-day for ensuring the safety of people, and CCTV cameras are one of those tools being used in public spaces even though many resent using these devices, for they allege these encroach their privacy. This essay will discuss both the views and come to a plausible conclusion.

On the one hand, undeniably closed circuit cameras are a great surveillance equipment, many believe that constant monitoring disrupts normal movement and many feel uncomfortable while performing their daily activity. Moreover, some of the CCTV footage recording could be misused by hackers at multiple platforms, most of which are used on social media. Nowadays, many are worried that they might become victims of unsolicited demands if the recordings are leaked, affecting their public persona, and costing them money.

On the other hand, these innovative machines play an important role in affording safety and security; these render an effective way to find evidence related to crime scenes, such as murder, theft, assault, eve-teasing, vandalism, and so forth. These act as a backbone for the law enforcement agencies in combating and controlling offences, and also extending safety to people, especially on roads.  To exemplify, installation of CCTV cameras at traffic signals has reduced the instances of traffic infringements as traffic control centers are able to detect the vehicle number and penalize those breaking the rules.

To conclude, I believe objections being raised by the skeptical lobby are lacking in substance: even though public domains are meant for the free moment at large, making sure that these spaces should render a safe and secure experience to all, and this monitoring  apparatus is pivotal to that goal. Thus, I completely disapprove of any reservations against this innovation.   

In many countries the consumption of fast food has increased dramatically in recent years. What has caused this increase? What effect might it have on individuals and society?

In many countries the consumption of fast food has increased dramatically in recent years. What has caused this increase? What effect might it have on individuals and society?

Reason for the increase in usage of fast food?

• Hectic lifestyle - majorly no time for cooking and this forcefully forcing people to consume fast food, most of the food is ready to cook in 5 mins.
• Most of the industry attracts humans with advertisements and colourful products.

Effects:

• Fast food is processed food and these foods are with high cholesterol and glyceroid elements which are causing diseases of the modern era,...such as sugar, high BP, obesity etc and directly impacting an individual's life.
• People may be saving money and time with a healthy traditional cooking lifestyle but these habits of having fast food are affecting national health and people are now investing more on healthcare and insurance. 

“Fast food consumption has become a ubiquitous trend, and many are inclined towards such goods. In this essay I will discuss the reason for the rise of fast food, and the effects on people and overall society.

Undeniably, the rising consumption of convenience food is driven by the flexibility and promise to douse hunger anywhere and anytime, without one needing to slog in kitchens, or wait for their order to be served at restaurants. The hectic lifestyles, leaves one with little time to focus on preparing meals at home, and rather engage with ultra-processed options. For instance, a study by Bangalore Food Grading Corporation shows that there has been a 80% hike in sales of instant eateries established in the last 5 years, directly indicating a surge in consumption of instant food items.

Similarly, organizations engaged in preparing and selling such edible goods attract consumers using attractive packaging to create a temptation. Additionally, aggressive advertisements involving renowned people in endorsing these goods, besides branding is encouraging this propensity, and pushing customers to buy the products,  thereby leading to a spurt in consumption of such edible goods. 

However, owing to the high fat and low nutrient content, convenience foods are directly impacting health, causing multiple health conditions: obesity, high cholesterol, blood pressure and irritable bowel syndromes, among others, and jeopardizing human health. Consequently, people are forced to invest a large part of their incomes into medical insurance. Similarly, governments must allocate higher budgets for health infrastructures to cater to rising health implications of heightening engagement with ultra-processed edible goods. 

To conclude, an increase in fast food consumption is fueled by busy lifestyles and easy accessibility, which is severely  affecting health unfavorably, and many countries are forced to spend more on combating disease rather than ensuring well-being.

Nowadays larger distances are travelled by people to work and study on a daily basis. Some consider it to be a negative development, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Nowadays larger distances are travelled by people to work and study on a daily basis. Some consider it to be a negative development, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Many working professionals and students commute each day to distant locations for their studies or work. Some debate about commuting longer distances can be detrimental, while others argue that this can be beneficial. This essay will discuss both viewpoints critically and discuss my own perspective.

To start with, it is quite a major concern about travelling far to the desired location. Everyday commuting can be hectic, in cities due to traffic jams and this slowly becomes a usual day activity which can turn lives chaotic. Due to these long hours, people are not able to devote time to their loved ones. On top of that, due to such travel routines, and unstable hectic journeys many become mentally and physically lethargic, which in the long term, makes them irritable, thereby disturbing their personal life.

On the other hand,  this pattern offers certain benefits: one can use the time spent on journeys for their hobbies. For example, numerous individuals admit being able to spare some moments to read their favorite books; listen to the music they like, and even watch movies; and talk to their friends on phones, something that might be out of bounds for them.   

Moreover, it has  become possible for people to afford residence in newly built modern housing societies that also offer larger recreational space at a lower price and healthy and green surroundings, which are away from traffic and air pollution, and still seek outstanding opportunities for jobs and education, located at a distance.  

To conclude, both the situations have their own virtue, while I believe that travelling longer distances away from metropolitan urban concrete forests have multiple pros, such as a comfortable lifestyle and chance to practice hobbies, by affording oneself some personal time to neutralise a fast paced lifestyle. 

Many working professionals and students have to commute a longer distance for their workplace and studies. And there is ongoing debate about whether commuting longer distances can be a hectic or uncomfortable situation for many, while others argue that travelling time can be utilized which an individual can give to themselves. This essay will discuss both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective.

OR

Childhood obesity is becoming a serious problem in many countries. Explain the main causes and effects of this problem, and suggest some possible solutions.

Childhood obesity is becoming a serious problem in many countries. Explain the main causes and effects of this problem, and suggest some possible solutions.

Nowadays, globally, juveniles are becoming corpulent: a critical health concern, and due to this, they face numerous health issues, and  their physical appearance also suffers. I will discuss the causes of this, its effects and how this malady can be neutralised world wide.

The main cause of this menace directly depends on food intake: the younger generation eats junk snacks which have high preservative content. In the contemporary world, parents themselves promote eating packed items, and using cold drinks, unintentionally engendering the habit of consuming a calorie rich diet. Additionally, youngsters are surrounded by technology, and rather than going outdoors, they like to play indoor games on mobiles and computers, which is hampering their physical health, and leading to excessive weight.

Those becoming corpulent at a young age, encounter a negative impact in their daily social life. This adversely affects their mental condition as they feel left out by virtue of becoming a butt of jokes for their friends. Also, this disrupts their physical wellness, leading to major life long diseases such as blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and so on.

To overcome this, schools and parents must educate youngsters about the ramifications this can have on them. Besides this, their food habits must be transformed such as regulating their intake of junk food, and replacing it with home-made meals.  Likewise, the formal tuition can organise weekly outdoor games activities to create interest for outdoor games among children. Similarly, mothers and fathers should also plan outdoor activities to let their little ones engage with active lifestyles.

In hindsight, the unhealthy food intake  and indolent lifestyles are fueling corpulence among young individuals, and  exposing them to several challenges, but concerned efforts and schools and families can  help surmount this menace. 

Full-time university students spend a lot of time studying, however they should perform other activities too. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Full-time university students spend a lot of time studying, however they should perform other activities too. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Agree

• . students should focus on other activities too as it help them to develop skills 
• . can even adapt something else as a career option rather than choosing academic 
• . other activities can help in creating a fresh environment 
• . they will learn to create a balance between extra curricular activities and studies. 

Disagree

• . as huge amount of fees are being charged by the university, and the first goal of student needs to be the academic performance, other activities can be done later and competition 

In modern times, university goers are mostly focusing on studies and most of their time is spent on improving academic performance, whereas some believe that they should spend their time in other activities too. I completely agree with this view completely and shall elucidate my views in the following paragraphs. 

 The significant development of the technology has created peer pressure, and individuals attending university programs tend to stay fully occupied in academics because the job market has become competitive, so that they can  gain rich employment opportunities like their classmates and acquaintances.  Similarly, they must bear an extremely high amount of fees, which creates a burden on their families, persuading them to stay focussed only on their studies. 

However, students need to be introduced to other activities too as it helps them to escape the mundane, and rejuvenate their minds, which can help them enhance their focus on their studies. Undeniably, programs offered in varsities are loaded with complex syllabus that involves undertaking projects, assignments and sometimes practicals, which can be mentally taxing, but partaking in cocurricular endeavors can earn them a much required healthy distraction, allowing them to unwind and refresh their minds. For instance, most globally-acknowledged universities like University of Glasgow, encourage their pupils to participate in sports, arts and other endeavors, so as to allow them to let off steam. Furthermore, this will help them to develop skills and to be free from their chaotic schedules, which can lead to broader thinking and creative mindsets. 

In hindsight, dispute aside, by analyzing both the views, being academically strong can help in building up a strong career, but taking part in extra-curricular undertakings can lead better academic outcomes, as well as foster resourcefulness. 

Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or organisation. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantage of being self- employed?

Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or organisation. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantage of being self- employed?

Reasons 

• .Flexibility in working schedule.
• .freedom and independence
• .creative

Drawbacks 

• . irregular income
• . lack of job security 
• . lack of benefits provided by the companies 
• . excess of workload or burden 
• . no regular working hours 
• . imbalance financial support 

In recent years, individuals are preferring to opt for self-owned commercial ventures rather than working with companies and organizations. This essay will discuss the primary reason for this shift, and also examine drawbacks of being self employed. 

At the outset, one of the main reasons pushing people to choose self employment is the flexible working hours, with no restrictions on the timings. Working schedules can be planned as per the requirements and availability of timings as per individual requirements, instead of being tied to the nine to five regimes. On top of that, one can be their own boss, instead of reporting to others, facing their whims, and slog to attain targets imposed on them, and can make independent decisions without any hindrance.  

However, self employment comes with various disadvantages. Financial instability can be a major concern, as income could be irregular and unpredictable at crucial stages, besides absence of employment security. Unlike salaries and other non-monetary benefits received from employers, one does not receive allowances such as health insurance, paid leaves, extra bonus or retirement contributions as one is at their own device. 

Furthermore, running their own business requires one to devote longer working hours, whether while initiating new endeavors, or expanding them, predisposing them to consistent struggle and stress levels. Additionally, arranging financial resources is always a complicated  matter since one is responsible for sustaining their credit rating, and many times lenders turn down loan requests, making business susceptible to slowing down or closing.  

In hindsight, even though the factors driving people into establishing their own enterprises are quite justified and tend to render them desired outcomes, the challenges this can bring along also tend to be significant: financial insecurity, unstable incomes, and perennial toils to survive. 

Environmental problems such as pollution and climate change affect all the people in the world. Although global decisions are made to reduce these problems, the solutions are not effective. Why are the solutions ineffective? How can these problems be solved?

Environmental problems such as pollution and climate change affect all the people in the world. Although global decisions are made to reduce these problems, the solutions are not effective. Why are the solutions ineffective? How can these problems be solved?

Problem stems from following reasons: (why are solutions ineffective)  

• Ever rising population which must be provided with the facilities and thus, the situation continues as it is 
• The democratically states fear earning the wrath/ anger of their  constituents: applying those solutions might mean penalizing their own people. 
• The governments also do not want to risk economic performance: implementing decisions might lead to closing down of factories and offices, this will not only impact employment but also economic productivity. 
• There is lack of knowledge and expertise 
• There is a lack of trust among nations: many poor nations feel that these decisions have been taken by rich countries to impede the development 

Ways out 

• Allocating responsibility to each nation and also installing a system of credits to the countries that comply with
• Sharing of technology 
• Penalizing and boycotting the countries that fail to adhere to norms.

All global efforts invested into meeting the challenges facing the planet posed by pollution have comprehensibly failed to produce any tangible outcomes. This can be attributed to several reasons, and it is imperative to discover plausible solutions to surmount this complication.

The implementation of international action such as the Paris Resolution, to counter environmental deterioration is marred by unwillingness of governments to apply the universally adopted resolutions, locally. They are either compelled by the need to fulfill the requirements: food, shelter, and clothing, of the ever-rising population - coercing them to put environmental concerns on the back seat, or forced to put all actions on hold, out of the fear that embracing such policies might hamper economy quite severely, and creating joblessness. 

Similarly, a great imbalance in the distribution of resources and expertise required to resolve this imbroglio is also partly to blame. While the elite nations have access to technologies and money needed to deploy for climate mitigation, the underdeveloped societies face a deep dearth of these, and to exacerbate the situation, the cooperation between both the lobbies is missing.

Although the panacea for this situation is not readily available, things can be improved by enhancing collaboration, and taking joint responsibility for addressing issues arising out of current circumstances. Technology transfer and liberal access to resources for all, can help persuade every nation to switch to greener technologies and methods. Additionally, every inhabitant of the earth should be apprised about surroundings becoming inhospitable for future generations in case the current occupants fail to respond to concurrent problems. 

In hindsight, deriving intended results from universal  endeavors aimed at resolving the environmental puzzle is contingent on closer cooperation at the international level and engendering pragmatic foresight about imminent catastrophe awaiting humanity, in case warnings are disregarded.  

Some people believe that educating children at home provides more benefits than sending them to school. Do the advantages of home-schooling outweigh the disadvantages

Some people believe that educating children at home provides more benefits than sending them to school. Do the advantages of home-schooling outweigh the disadvantages

In the contemporary era, many say that providing home-schools to juveniles is more beneficial for youngsters rather than sending them to formal tuition. Even though this has certain benefits to offer I believe they are exceeded by drawbacks. 

One of the major advantages of homeschooling is that it allows personalized learning, children can learn at their own pace, with lessons being taught  as per their  strengths and weaknesses. Teachers schedule lessons as per the ability of their students and adjust the speed of lesson delivery, and also offers clarifications for doubts that their latter might face since their focus is completely on these limited students. For instance, Iceland has experienced positive growth in homeschoolings due to tutors finding it easy to negotiate the challenges of educating a limited number of students, quite efficiently.  Similarly, children can clarify their doubts without inhibitions since there is no one to judge, or subdue them. 

Notwithstanding the benefits of rendering schooling at home, homeschooled children may have fewer daily chances to interact with peers. Social skills and group communication may need extra attention. Furthermore, homeschools lack the special assistance from facilities like science labs, sports teams and communication sessions conducted by the various schools for preparing them for various challenges. Schools have highly trained and professional teachers who are experienced and offer real time clarifications since they have all the required equipment and aids at their disposal, which is not at all possible in home settings. 

In hindsight, parents should make their wards to be a part of formal schooling as it will create a studious environment and will help them to be a part of cultural society and ease in making friends and understanding, helping, sharing and caring. 

In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What are the consequences of doping for athletes? What measures should be taken to combat this issue?

In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What are the consequences of doping for athletes? What measures should be taken to combat this issue?

In the contemporary era, there is an ongoing debate on growing problems of doping among athletes. People who prefer consuming performance enhancing drugs are facing many consequences. I will analyze and share plausible measures which can be adopted. 

To start with, people believe that enhancing performance allows better performance in career, which makes athletes use such material even though these pose severe health risks such as heart diseases, and so forth. Apart from that, it could lead to addiction by continuous consumption; eventually, causing mental disorders, aggression and anxiety, along with severe ramifications, in the  form of physical disability or loss of life. To exemplify, many professional wrestlers like Diamen Djordi from Romania, were involved in doping, which severely impacted their lives, and caused death at a young age.

On top of that, other serious impacts include the career facing disruptions caused by suspensions, or coming to an end due to imposition of ban and prohibition. This could lead to damaging the public image and reputation, and loss of sponsorships. For instance, there are many famous players who became involved in doping, their careers are often completely destroyed due to loss of reputation, and health complications. 

Having said that, there are many measures which can be opted to combat this issue, making athletes under strict and regular monitoring could help in coping with the doping factor, charging high penalties. To illustrate, in European countries, educational programmes for sports personnel to spread awareness among the athletes about avoiding doping and drug use.  

In hindsight, drug users are impacting their career and public image. Additionally, doping is impacting their health, affecting their physical and mental wellness. Thus, strict laws and restrictions, along with appropriate regulation should be implemented.  

In many countries, coffee chains are expanding rapidly, which some claim threatens the survival of small local cafés. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In many countries, coffee chains are expanding rapidly, which some claim threatens the survival of small local cafés. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Agree? 

• Uniform pricing, wherever one goes will pay similar amounts 

• Uniform products 

• Large scale operations which make these ubiquitous 

• Bigger investments, aggressive advertising and marketing 

• Offers in collaborations with other domains 

• Provide comfortable ambience and allow people to spend time there   

Disagree 

• Unique atmosphere and environment allow them to survive 

• Cater to local tastes

• Are more flexible with menus and can tweak things quickly  

• Their location and existence for long brings them loyalty 

Undeniably, the growing ubiquity of large cafe chains is fueling cafe culture, but  is this pushing smaller stand-alone establishments out of business, is a matter worthy of deeper pondering, to ascertain whether this fear is well-founded or unwarranted. 

Large organizations with multiple outlets boast of colossal investments in extensive and aggressive advertising strategies, helping them to enhance their visibility and outreach, enticing more and more consumers, persuading them to engage with these brands more frequently. For example, gigantic enterprises can afford to run promotional schemes, and enter into collaboration with brands operating in other domains, such as clothing, to engage their audience actively. This is something out of bounds for the small-scale companies; consequently, forming a notion that they are losing out to their bigger rivals.

Similarly, large chains stores have become a vogue, especially among the youth, due to their charisma: they offer extensive range of beverages and food - sometimes international, and not available locally - of homogenous quality, but unique, and at uniform prices, helping develop a taste among their customers for these offerings, and fetching brand loyalty. This is making some abandon their affiliation to regional options, and follow the universal companies. 

Nevertheless, in the face of stiff competition, many locally known cafes are still able to hold their ground well, owing to the niche they have been able to create for themselves owing to their exclusive local flavor, something even the best global brands cannot replicate. To corroborate, several cafes world over: Proud Mary in Portland and Bercos in Delhi, have continued to co-exist with global giants.

In hindsight, although international and large cafe chains have overwhelmed the market, numerous establishments have endured this rivalry, and held steadfast, and their loss is extremely limited to some youngsters seeking broader  experience beyond coffee      

Politicians are more responsible for the protection of the environment than individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Politicians are more responsible for the protection of the environment than individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

When it comes to protecting the planet it is said that policy makers are the ones who have a greater responsibility to undertake this endeavor than citizens. I partially agree with the notion and believe the change can only happen when both the parties contribute to this critical task,  and shall elaborate my stand in the following paragraphs.  

To start with, those watching the role of policy makers feel that they can make the changes to preserve the ecology by making various laws, and everyone  will follow this without questions, having a wider impact on the populace and surroundings; no one will be prepared to face the wrath of authorities. For example; Indian government prohibited mining on the outskirts of New Delhi, and imposed heavy penalties on offenders. Consequently, this activity was completely halted, helping protect the natural ecology of the region. Similarly the government has the resources like money and expertise to save the atmosphere. 

Nevertheless, some believe that it is not only the state that should don the mantle of this essential mission, citizens should also come forward  because the damage that has already been done cannot be undone by a single entity, but can only be cured if all will join hands and work for the betterment. To illustrate, any law cannot take effect unless inhabitants comply with those and adopt sustainable practices. They  are the root cause of all the mess: they are cutting down trees, using and littering plastic, burning fossil fuel, and so on. Thus, they must also share the onus.    

In hindsight, disputes aside,  saving the planet for future generations cannot be a task that should be negotiated by only the state, it is necessary for inhabitants of a country to contribute in equal measures. 

Without capital punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of violence will increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Without capital punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of violence will increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Death sentence as a necessity for preventing unlawful incidents of brutal intent,   has been a debatable topic for a long time as a part of society believes that its role is pivotal, whereas others question its implications. This matter will need a profound analysis, as per me. 

Numerous criminologists support enforcement of laws of executing those convicted of violent illegal felonies on the assumption that this is the sole medium that can incite fear among perpetrators, and dissuade them from taking extreme steps that jeopardizes safety and lives of others. For example, wherever such a statute has been implemented: Saudi Arabia, Iran and UAE, among others, antisocial acts involving savagery have dipped sharply. Moreover, this arrangement also acts as a deterrent to discourage others by setting precedents. 

Nonetheless,  those arguing against this policy suggest that, except in a few regions, there is no proof that judicial murders have been helpful in mitigating unlawful acts intended to cause bodily harm to victims. As per them, unless those intending to follow such deviant ways are trained to control their animal instincts; and reformed,  there is no law that can counter instances of violent lawbreaking.  For example, countries like Russia and the USA that have a followed a zero tolerance policy for criminal endeavors of brutal intent, have miserably failed to control rapes, murders, rioting, and so on. However,  this might be due to the laxity of law enforcement agencies and patronage provided by the influential and the rich to those engaged in antisocial undertakings, which emboldens them to continue with their methods.  

To conclude, judicial execution, despite raising doubts among certain sections, is a necessity since barring a few hardened criminals, this system has remained effective in curtailing a majority of incidents of brutal acts.  

Many people think that every individual is responsible for their own healthy lifestyle, others believe that governments should take care of it. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Many people think that every individual is responsible for their own healthy lifestyle, others believe that governments should take care of it. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

The discourse over who should be accountable for maintaining the healthy ways of life: citizens or the state,  is multifaceted. While some put the onus on the former, others vouch for the intervention from the latter. Both the views are augmented by justified opinions, which shall be delved deeper into in the following paragraphs. 

On one hand, proponents of citizens bearing this burden argue that maintaining well being is a personal choice. They believe that one should take ownership of their health by making a proper diet plan,  exercise and their own well being; they are impacted directly by the consequences resulting from ignorance of their health needs. Also, this viewpoint emphasizes personal freedom and obligation, suggesting that people are positioned better to comprehend their own needs and preferences and maneuver accordingly. For example, someone opting to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and circumvent harmful habits, like smoking, is a self-selected option,  for one can experience direct rewards fetched by such an arrangement. 

On the contrary, some argue that policy makers have a crucial role in ensuring a fair health index of society. This perspective suggests that not everyone has equal access to the resources necessary for sustainable health, such as education, nutrition, food and healthcare, making it imperative for politicians to don the mantle to help ensure mitigation of diseases, disorders and ailments.  This will help sustain economic productivity and minimize expenditure incurred on extending health care support to those inflicted by illnesses due to paucity of expertise and know-how about circumventing ill-health.

In conclusion, while individual responsibility is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, government support is equally important in providing the necessary infrastructure and resources to make healthy choices accessible to all. Both approaches are essential in promoting a healthier society.

In the future, people may no longer be able to pay for things in shops using cash. All payments may have to be made by card or using phones. Do you think this will happen one day? Why do you think some people might not be happy to give up using cash?

In the future, people may no longer be able to pay for things in shops using cash. All payments may have to be made by card or using phones. Do you think this will happen one day? Why do you think some people might not be happy to give up using cash?

As the world is progressing, digital payment methods are anticipated to supersede conventional methods of transacting, but there will still be some continuing with the old mediums of negotiating monetary obligations.  

To start with, a lobby propounds that online payments are easy and convenient to use. This is to say, one can remit money just by clicking a button on their smartphones while sitting at their homes, eliminating the tedious task of visiting ATMs. Moreover, due to the advent of these means, the relief from the cumbersome task of carrying bulky wallets is encouraging many to use e-transactions.

Similarly, this prediction is also bolstered by the young generation being more technologically oriented, and  increasingly making use of this innovative practice to shop in brick and mortar stores, or online, order food, pay bills, and so forth, without needing to plan their everyday budget. Apart from that,  several rewards such as cash back, and many offer, is helping make the virtual means of transacting ubiquitous.    

Having said that, many, especially the elderly,  are likely to stay wedded to the idea of using ancient ways, and be wary of virtual payments since they might not be tech savvy enough to use modern tools. Additionally,  some will continue not to trust this new introduction; they will fear that their money might get stolen, helping paper-based retain its popularity. For example, a recent survey revealed that due to the rapid rise in cyber crimes, many continue to use cash even in the digital age. 

In conclusion, I profoundly believe that paying digitally will be in fashion, but the traditional channel will surely endure and cannot be written off. Saying that people might switch completely to modern financial devices is a far-fetched idea.  

Some argue that teachers should focus on academics more than motivating students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some argue that teachers should focus on academics more than motivating students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Undeniably, there is profound debate raging among varied sections about whether academics should be prioritized over encouraging students. Some subscribe to this notion, while others dissent. I will critically analyze this matter in the following paragraphs.

To begin with, some professes that teachers are the main pillar in helping carve the careers of students: they build the educational foundations by disseminating the syllabus containing the deep knowledge of the world. Therefore, imparting knowledge for academics makes youngsters accomplish their task to fulfill the needs of their future career which is based on academics only. Moreover, students must know that learning all subjects will persuade them to compete among themselves, and excel. Also, it is imperative to keep academics on the top since only this can inculcate knowledge about professional domains, helping learners discover their interest areas, such as healthcare, engineering and IT, to name a few.

Nevertheless, there is another lobby that opposes the former notion and asserts that educators must don the role of mentors, along with delivering scholastic knowledge: this can assist even the average performers to try to harness their abilities, get clarifications and augment their performance, prevent them from abandoning education, a common feature and growing concern in several countries, where pupils are dissuaded from continuing schooling due to poor academic performance. Likewise,  this can also help them discover their latent talents. Several accomplished people like APJ Abdul Kalam Azad, the former president of India, credited his achievements to the guidance rendered by his teacher. 

To capitulate, I vehemently align myself with the view that teaching professionals must not overlook any aspect of their job: delivering subject knowledge can help foster acumen required for later life as adults, while mentorship can assist learners to continue despite facing pressures.   

The higher proportion of the older population will overtake the younger generation. What is the reason? Is it positive or negative development?

The higher proportion of the older population will overtake the younger generation. What is the reason? Is it positive or negative development?

A burning phenomenon is surfacing: the prospect of demographic composition leaning in the favor of the old populace. The reason seems to stem from many factors, which will be discussed in the following paragraphs and a conclusion will be drawn whether this trend is beneficial or not.

To start with, as the world is progressing, many diseases have been eradicated due to advancement in medical fields, which has resulted in elongating life expectancy, especially among elders. By virtue of this, there has been an increase in the number of old individuals. Moreover, low birthrate among youngsters is another cause for this prevailing tendency. This is to say, many are dissuaded from becoming parents since they are engrossed in their professional obligations in order to meet ends and make a sufficient living for themselves; consequently leading to a negative population growth. For example, in Japan, young individuals are working their fingers to the bone to fulfill their basic needs, not giving a bean about offsprings, and hence witnessing climbing index of the older people every year.

Having said that, this is surely a detrimental trend. If such scenarios take a peak, there will be a dearth of young professionals suited for essential jobs: masonry, plumbing, miners, fishermen and so on, where physical strength is a much required trait. Similarly, there will be an immense burden on the government to support the retired people. In other words, the lawmakers have to increase the financial allocation on medical grants, pensions and old-age homes, ultimately shifting the pressure on tax payers to pay more. To corroborate, a recent survey revealed that many are incapacitated to save for the future since they are paying additionally to aid the old age homes and pensions.

In conclusion, this population composition shift is being fueled by advanced medical facilities that have helped ensure longevity, and lower birth rates. However, this transition presents a bleak picture since there will be less young workers for completing specific jobs and the state will have to support the aging populace.

An increasing number of professionals such as doctors and teachers are leaving their own poorer countries to work in developed countries. What are the problems associated with and some possible solutions?

 An increasing number of professionals such as doctors and teachers are leaving their own poorer countries to work in developed countries. What are the problems associated with and some possible solutions?

The world is witnessing a serious paradigm shift, where professionals such as doctors and educators are relocating to richer societies and leaving their underdeveloped countries. This makes it imperative to discuss the plethora of concerns arising out of this phenomenon, with a few possible remedies.

Due to this trend, many destitute nations are losing their highly skilled workers, creating a deep dearth of talent that could be utilized for the benefits of their fellow citizens. For example, many Japanese teachers are migrating to Germany in search of greener pastures, and as a result, Japan, no longer, has access to qualified educators for schools, turning the future of children bleak. Moreover, governments often subsidize education in high-end skills like engineering, and when graduates - from these streams - leave, not only the destitute countries lose talent but also the money invested in training them, eventually, nations become bereft  of deserving returns on these investments, deepening the crisis.

However, there are numerous viable solutions to stem this exodus. Destitute countries can create openings with lucrative salaries for those working in strategic sectors, and are prone to be tempted by the allure of better earnings and life abroad. This could help in retaining the talent, benefiting society and ensuring rich dividends. Additionally, countries can implement mandatory return incentives: grants, fast-track promotions, and  so forth, to encourage those working overseas to repatriate. Furthermore, prosperous nations should also follow ethical recruitment practices and avoid the overpooling, or aggressive hiring, from the nations suffering from severe shortage. 

To conclude, the mass immigration of professionals causes shortage of skilled workers and governments lose resources invested into the education of these workers. However,  by improving pay-scale, establishing comeback grants and international cooperation, developing nations can surmount these challenges and retain their invaluable human resources.

We have long imagined the possibility that life exists on other planets. Do you believe that there is life in the universe outside the earth? What would be the implications of proving that alien life exists? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

We have long imagined the possibility that life exists on other planets. Do you believe that there is life in the universe outside the earth? What would be the implications of proving that alien life exists? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Do you believe? 

Yes? Why 

• Assumption: out of the billion stars, some might be having  planets revolving around them and that might be having life-supporting conditions. 
• Recent revelations made by probes sent on Mars have proven that outer space can support life,  and thus it is only a matter of time that some other places will be located soon. 
• Unsolicited and unproven sightings of UFOs hold some concrete background: one can hallucinate, but not in all cases

No? Why  

• There is absolutely no/little  chance of life being located on other planets: till now all the claims of UFO sightings have been overruled 
• Even after sending probes to other parts of solar system,  gazing in the universe, trying to catch radio signal from other planets have yielded little.

Implications 

• This could result in some positive outcomes, if life supporting conditions on other planets were found, humans would have other places to populate in the space 
• The resources of those locations could be tapped 
• Humanity may stumble across a much advanced and intelligent civilisation that could help resolve the severe challenges being faced currently on the earth. 

Negative 

• As many fear, based on the opinions created by sci-fi movies that alien life may not be friendly and might eliminate humanity 
• In reality, even if life if life is found, humans are unlikely to gain anything from that: there is an absence of technology that can enable speedy space travel, but it will surely cost several arms  and legs if such endeavors are continued   

It is highly unlikely that the human race is the only occupant of such a vast universe, and it is simply a matter of time when such discovery will be actually  made. This aspect will be elucidated in the following paragraphs along with the benefits this knowledge will fetch.

To commence with, the prospects of stumbling upon life forms beyond the realms of the earth are quite high, and augmented/supported by unofficial reports of UFO sightings even though  scientists are cautious/circumspect about admitting these incidents as real. However, they themselves are quite optimistic about being able to find aliens on one of the millions of the planets revolving around their stars, and having hospitable conditions. In 2024, the Hubble telescope revealed in one of its explorations that there were at least 300 planets that housed a similar environment to that of the blue planet.

This discernment/enlightenment could prove to be rewarding for mankind; it would become possible to find alternative locations in the heavens that could be populated by shifting some inhabitants to those areas, easing the burden on resources back home. Similarly, the materials and minerals found on those heavenly bodies could be brought back for the consumption by earthlings.

Moreover, the experts also propose that this endeavour could also precipitate a meaningful interaction between humans and extraterrestrial civilizations, wherein the latter the virtue of being highly advanced, could pass on the knowledge of surmounting challenges posed by exhaustion of natural resources, pollution, and nuclear holocaust/destruction caused by atomic wars.    

In hindsight, the optimism propelling space research undertakings are guided by the belief that there are other places harbouring life, and this enlightenment will surely afford panacea for the myriad challenges facing the inhabitant of the earth.