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Discuss both views GovernmentMoneySociety Essay #240
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some think that governments should support retired people financially while others believe they should take care of themselves.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
314 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrase topic about financial support for retirees. State the two opposing views: government support vs. self-reliance. State own opinion favoring self-reliance.

There exists a dichotomy of opinion concerning the financial support of retirees, with one faction advocating for governmental assistance while the other contends that individuals should be responsible for their own sustenance post-retirement. My stance aligns with the latter view, endorsing self-reliance in financial matters after retirement.

Body 1 · View 1

Topic sentence for government support view. Arguments: reward for contributing, ensures worry-free life (Scandinavian example), addresses inability to save for low-income workers.

Those who propound the idea of state-funded support for retirees have cogent reasons for their belief. The primary argument is that after years of contributing to society, retirees deserve a comfortable and worry-free life, which can be ensured through governmental financial aid. This argument is further bolstered by the example of Scandinavian countries where such practices have resulted in higher satisfaction rates among the elderly. Additionally, they argue that not all individuals have the means or foresight to save for their retirement years. This point is exemplified by the plight of low-income workers who often struggle to make ends meet, let alone save for retirement.

Body 2 · View 2

Topic sentence for self-reliance view (author's preferred view). Arguments: promotes financial responsibility/planning (Singapore example), government resources are limited and needed elsewhere (example of financial issues with large programs).

However, I am more inclined towards the view that individuals should take charge of their own financial security post-retirement. One compelling argument for this is that it encourages financial prudence and planning from an early age, fostering a culture of saving and investment. This point is substantiated by the economic stability observed in countries like Singapore, where mandatory savings schemes have led to a high degree of self-sufficiency among retirees. Furthermore, it is argued that governmental resources are finite and should be prioritized for sectors like education and healthcare, which have a more direct impact on national development. This argument is underscored by the fiscal challenges faced by countries with extensive social security programs, often leading to budget deficits and economic instability.

Conclusion

Summarize arguments for both sides. Reiterate opinion that individual financial responsibility is more convincing due to promoting responsibility and better use of resources.

In conclusion, while there are plausible arguments for state-funded support for retirees, I firmly believe that the case for individual financial responsibility is stronger, underpinned by the benefits of fostering financial prudence and the more judicious allocation of governmental resources.

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