Welcome to another post on the GRE Analyze an Issue essay prompt, focusing on the connection between a nation’s achievements and the well-being of its people. In this discussion, I’ll explore whether the true measure of a great nation lies in the contributions of its rulers, artists, and scientists or in the overall quality of life of its citizens.
Understanding the Prompt
The prompt presents a statement and asks for a response on the extent to which one agrees or disagrees with it. It also asks for an explanation of the reasoning behind the chosen position. Additionally, the writer should consider both the ways in which the statement may or may not hold true, and how these considerations influence their stance.
Arguments in Favor of Measuring Greatness by Welfare
- The statement implies that a nation’s success is solely dependent on the achievements of a select few, neglecting the contributions and well-being of the majority of its citizens.
- The general welfare of a nation’s people, including factors such as education, healthcare, and social equality, is crucial in determining the overall success and progress of a nation.
- A nation may have accomplished rulers, artists, and scientists, but if the majority of its people are suffering due to poverty, discrimination, or other socio-economic issues, it cannot be considered a great nation.
Arguments Against the Statement
- Great achievements by rulers, artists, and scientists can bring prestige and recognition to a nation, elevating its status in the global community.
- These achievements can also contribute to the economic growth and development of a nation, leading to a better quality of life for its citizens.
- A nation with successful and accomplished leaders, artists, and scientists may also inspire its people and foster a sense of national pride and unity.
Based on these arguments, I would argue that the statement holds true. While achievements in various fields can certainly contribute to a nation’s greatness, it cannot be the sole indicator. A nation’s true greatness lies in the overall well-being and progress of its people, as they are the ones who make up the nation and contribute to its success. Without a focus on the general welfare of its citizens, any achievements by a select few cannot truly make a nation great.
External sources:
“What makes a great nation?” by Homi Kharas and Andrew Rogerson
“Why Economic Growth Alone Won’t Make America Great Again” by Jeffrey Sachs
Example of a Perfect-Scoring GRE Essay (Score of 6)
“General Welfare: The True Measure of a Great Nation”
I strongly agree with the statement that the general welfare of its people is the surest indicator of a great nation. While the achievements of rulers, artists, and scientists may be impressive, they are not a true reflection of the overall well-being of a nation’s citizens. In this essay, I will discuss why I believe the general welfare of a nation’s people should be the primary measure of greatness, and how the statement holds true in various contexts.
First and foremost, a nation’s greatness should be determined by the quality of life of its people. This includes factors such as access to basic needs, education, healthcare, and overall happiness. A nation may have a few exceptional individuals who achieve great things, but it is the well-being of the majority that truly reflects a nation’s success. For instance, a country with high levels of poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate healthcare cannot be considered great, regardless of the accomplishments of a select few.
Furthermore, a nation’s rulers, artists, and scientists may not always have the best interests of the people in mind. Their achievements may benefit a select few or serve their own personal agendas, rather than contributing to the overall welfare of the population. On the other hand, a government that prioritizes the general welfare of its people will make decisions and policies that aim to improve the lives of all citizens, rather than just a select few.
Moreover, the statement holds true in various contexts, including economic and social. Economically, a nation’s wealth and economic growth may be impressive, but if the majority of its citizens do not have access to basic needs or struggle to make ends meet, then it cannot be considered great. Similarly, a nation may have a thriving arts and culture scene, but if its citizens do not have access to quality education or healthcare, then the greatness of its artists cannot truly be celebrated.
On the other hand, some may argue that a nation’s rulers, artists, and scientists play a crucial role in shaping a nation’s identity and global reputation. While this may be true, their achievements should not be the sole measure of a nation’s greatness. Instead, their accomplishments should be seen as a reflection of the overall well-being of the people and the opportunities provided by the government.
In conclusion, the general welfare of a nation’s people is the true measure of its greatness. A nation cannot be considered great if its citizens are not thriving and if their basic needs are not met. While the achievements of rulers, artists, and scientists may be impressive, they should be seen as a reflection of the overall well-being of the population. It is only when a nation prioritizes the general welfare of its people that it can truly be considered great.
Why This Essay Earns a Perfect Score
This essay clearly articulates the position that the general welfare of a nation’s people should be the primary measure of greatness, and provides strong supporting arguments to back it up. The writer effectively addresses potential counterarguments and provides relevant examples to strengthen their position. The essay is well-structured and uses strong language to convey the writer’s stance.
Key Takeaways
1. A nation’s greatness should be determined by the well-being of its people, not the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists.
2. The government’s prioritization of the general welfare of its people is crucial in determining a nation’s greatness.
3. Economic and social factors should be considered in evaluating a nation’s greatness.
4. The achievements of rulers, artists, and scientists should be seen as a reflection of the overall well-being of the people, not the sole measure of a nation’s greatness.
5. The essay effectively argues for the importance of putting the well-being of citizens at the forefront of a nation’s definition of greatness.