IELTS Discussion Essay on Health & Tech & Society

In the world of scientific progress, the idea of humans living a hundred years or more is met with both excitement and worry. While I support this progress, I understand the worries of those who see it as an issue.

Those who oppose longer life spans often point to overpopulation as a major issue. They suggest that a rise in the average age could cause a dramatic increase in the world's population, putting pressure on resources and increasing social and economic inequality. For example, countries like India and China, which are already dealing with population problems, could face even greater challenges related to food, housing, and jobs. Critics also highlight the possible strain on healthcare systems. With more older people, the need for long-term care and chronic disease treatment could skyrocket, possibly overwhelming healthcare systems and draining public funds.

However, I lean towards the belief that a longer life expectancy is a sign of human progress and has many benefits. Firstly, it gives people more time to contribute to society. A longer life means more years of being productive, allowing people to have multiple careers, learn various skills, and gain a lot of experience that can be passed on to younger generations. For example, famous scientists like Jane Goodall and Noam Chomsky continue to contribute significantly to their fields even in their eighties. Secondly, longer life expectancy could lead to a stronger focus on preventative healthcare and improving lifestyles. As people expect to live longer, they might be more driven to adopt healthier habits, reducing the impact of disease and improving the overall quality of life.

In conclusion, while the idea of living a hundred years does bring up valid worries about overpopulation and healthcare stress, I believe the benefits of increased productivity and a healthier society make it a more attractive idea.

In the realm of scientific advancements, the potential for humans to live up to a century or beyond is met with both applause and apprehension. While I align myself with the proponents of this development, I acknowledge the concerns of those who perceive it as problematic.

Detractors of extended life expectancy often cite overpopulation as a primary concern. They argue that an increase in the average lifespan could lead to an unsustainable surge in global population, thereby straining resources and exacerbating socio-economic disparities. To illustrate, countries like India and China, already grappling with population-related issues, could face amplified challenges in terms of food security, housing, and employment. Furthermore, critics point to the potential strain on healthcare systems. With an aging population, the demand for long-term care and chronic disease management could skyrocket, potentially overwhelming healthcare infrastructures and draining public finances.

Nevertheless, I am inclined towards the view that a longer life expectancy is a testament to human progress and carries significant benefits. Firstly, it provides individuals with more time to contribute to society. A longer lifespan means more years of productivity, allowing individuals to pursue multiple careers, acquire diverse skills, and amass a wealth of experience that can be shared with younger generations. For instance, renowned scientists like Jane Goodall and Noam Chomsky continue to make significant contributions to their fields well into their eighties. Secondly, extended life expectancy could lead to a greater emphasis on preventative healthcare and lifestyle improvements. As people anticipate living longer, they may be more motivated to adopt healthier habits, thus reducing the burden of disease and improving overall quality of life.

In conclusion, while the prospect of a century-long lifespan does raise valid concerns about overpopulation and healthcare strain, I believe the benefits of increased productivity and a healthier society make it a more compelling proposition.