IELTS Discussion Essay on Work & Money & Nature

In the manufacturing world, there are two main perspectives: one supports making durable, long-lasting items, and the other promotes the production of affordable, low-cost goods. I personally lean towards the first viewpoint, favoring the creation of products that last.

Those who favor making cheap goods have their reasons. First, they believe that low-cost products appeal to a broader audience, especially those with limited funds. They extend this argument by saying that these affordable items allow people with lower incomes to have access to a wider variety of products that they might not otherwise be able to afford. Second, supporters of this viewpoint argue that cheap goods encourage consumer spending, which in turn boosts economic growth. They back up this point by noting that economies with a lot of inexpensive goods often see higher consumer spending.

However, I agree with those who support making long-lasting goods. The main argument for this viewpoint is that durable products, although they may cost more upfront, provide better value over time. This is demonstrated by items like refrigerators or washing machines, where paying more at the start can lead to years of reliable use, saving money in the long run. Additionally, making long-lasting goods is more environmentally friendly, as it lowers the rate of replacement and therefore the amount of waste produced. This point is underscored by the current global environmental crisis, where reducing waste is a critical need.

In conclusion, while there are valid reasons to produce cheap goods, such as serving lower-income groups and boosting economic growth, I believe that the advantages of making long-lasting products, like their better value over time and their positive impact on the environment, make a stronger argument.

In the realm of manufacturing, two contrasting views persist: one advocates for the production of durable, long-lasting goods, while the other emphasizes the importance of affordable, inexpensive products. My stance aligns more with the former, favoring the creation of products that stand the test of time.

Those who champion the production of cheap goods are not without their reasons. Firstly, they argue that inexpensive products cater to a larger demographic, particularly those with limited financial resources. This argument is extended by the fact that these affordable goods enable lower-income individuals to enjoy a wider range of products that they might otherwise be unable to afford. Secondly, proponents of this view contend that cheap goods stimulate consumer spending, thus driving economic growth. This point is further substantiated by the observation that economies with a prevalence of inexpensive goods often experience a higher rate of consumer expenditure.

Despite the aforementioned arguments, I find myself in agreement with those who advocate for the production of long-lasting goods. The primary argument for this stance is that durable products, although initially more expensive, offer greater value over time. This point is exemplified by the case of appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines, where a higher initial investment can result in years of reliable service, thus saving money in the long run. Moreover, the production of long-lasting goods is more environmentally sustainable, as it reduces the frequency of replacement and thus the waste generated. This argument is reinforced by the current global environmental crisis, where the reduction of waste has become a pressing necessity.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments in favor of producing cheap goods, such as catering to lower-income demographics and stimulating economic growth, I maintain that the benefits of manufacturing long-lasting products, namely their greater value over time and their contribution to environmental sustainability, present a stronger case.