TASK 2:
ESSAY INFORMATION:
Written by: IELTS I-Ready, 19/8/2024
Marked by: Ex-BC Examiner
(IELTS Academic – 17/8/2024)
Question: Differences between countries are becoming less evident. Nowadays people are watching the same film, fashion, brands, advertisements and TV channels. To what extent do the disadvantages of this outweigh the advantages?
ANSWER:
The growing global convergence in entertainment, fashion, and media has led to cultures becoming increasingly similar across countries. While this phenomenon fosters global understanding and shared experiences, the risks to cultural diversity loss and local economic challenges are more alarming.
On the positive side, the global consumption of similar content and brands promotes a sense of connection among people across borders. Indeed, common knowledge creates a mutual ground for conversations around the world, which now shares universal current information. For example, popular movies can allow people from different countries to engage in discussions, despite their cultural differences, as they are all familiar with the same trending topics.
Nonetheless, the downsides of this trend are far more concerning, with the most significant being the erosion of cultural identity. The dominance of global brands and media may overshadow local traditions, languages, and customs, leading to a decline in regional productions that are crucial for the preservation of cultural uniqueness. This loss of diversity can make the world culturally monotonous and less rich in unique expressions.
Moreover, the widespread availability of global media and products can exacerbate economic disparities between countries. As international brands dominate local markets, smaller or local businesses may struggle to compete, leading to economic imbalances. This concentration of market power in the hands of a few large global corporations can undermine local economies and limit opportunities for local entrepreneurs, affecting economic diversity and innovation.
In conclusion, while the global spread of media and brands fosters worldwide connections, it comes with more significant costs. The erosion of unique cultural identities and the impact on local economies highlight the disadvantages of cultural homogenization. Preserving cultural heritage and supporting local businesses are essential to maintaining a diverse and dynamic global society.
(291 words)
Highlight Vocabulary:
| English | Vietnamese |
| Convergence | Hội tụ |
| Preservation | Bảo tồn |
| Monotonous | Đơn điệu |
| Exacerbate | Làm trầm trọng thêm |
| Disparities | Chênh lệch |
| Homogenization | Đồng nhất |
