In this discussion, we’ll explore the GRE “Analyze an Issue” essay prompt, which asks whether scientists and researchers should focus their efforts on studies likely to benefit the greatest number of people. We’ll break down the prompt, examine arguments for and against this idea, and draw on real-world examples to shape our stance on this compelling issue.
Decoding the Prompt
The prompt invites us to consider whether it’s advantageous for scientists and researchers to prioritize projects with the potential to impact a broad population, rather than pursuing more niche or individualized areas of study. It’s a question of balancing scale, purpose, and priority in the pursuit of knowledge.
Arguments For
- Focusing on areas that can benefit the greatest number of people can lead to significant advancements and breakthroughs in fields that are crucial for the betterment of society. For example, investing in research on renewable energy sources can have a widespread positive impact on the environment and benefit a large number of people.
- By prioritizing research on areas that can benefit the majority, scientists and researchers can contribute to addressing pressing global issues such as poverty, hunger, and disease.
- In some cases, research that is beneficial for a large population can also have positive implications for smaller groups or individuals. For instance, a new medical treatment developed for a widespread disease can also benefit those suffering from rare illnesses.
Arguments Against
- Focusing solely on areas that have the potential to benefit the greatest number of people may lead to neglecting important but less popular research topics. This could hinder progress in fields that are not considered a priority but still have the potential to make significant contributions.
- Sometimes, research on niche or less popular topics can lead to unexpected and groundbreaking discoveries that can have a broader impact in the long run.
- Prioritizing research based on its potential impact on the majority can also perpetuate existing inequalities and neglect the needs of marginalized or underrepresented communities.
Real-World Examples
To further illustrate our arguments, let’s look at some real-world examples. In the field of medicine, research on diseases that affect a large population, such as cancer or diabetes, can lead to significant advancements in treatment methods and benefit many people. On the other hand, research on rare or neglected diseases, such as tropical diseases, can also have a significant impact on the affected communities and improve their quality of life.
However, there have also been instances where focusing solely on benefiting the majority has led to neglecting the needs of marginalized communities. For example, in the development of new drugs, research is often conducted on a predominantly male population, leading to potential side effects or ineffectiveness for women.
Example of a High-Scoring GRE Essay
I wholeheartedly agree with the recommendation that scientists and other researchers should prioritize their efforts on areas that have the potential to benefit the greatest number of people. In an increasingly interconnected and globalized world, it is imperative for research to have a tangible and positive impact on society. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages of focusing research on areas that benefit the majority and provide specific examples to support my stance.
Firstly, prioritizing research on areas that benefit the majority ensures that resources are used efficiently. In an era of limited funding for research, it is crucial to allocate resources to projects that have the potential to make the most significant impact on society. For instance, a study on developing a vaccine for a common and deadly disease would have a more significant impact on the majority of the population than a study on a rare and niche disease. By focusing on areas that benefit the majority, scientists and researchers can make the best use of limited resources and maximize their impact.
Moreover, research that benefits the majority has the potential to address pressing societal issues. In today’s world, there are numerous challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare disparities, that affect a large portion of the population. By focusing on these areas, researchers can contribute to finding solutions that can benefit society as a whole. For example, a study on developing sustainable energy sources has the potential to combat climate change and benefit a large number of people by providing access to clean energy.
However, there may be instances when the recommendation to focus on areas that benefit the majority may not be advantageous. For example, in the field of medicine, there may be a rare disease that affects a small portion of the population. In such cases, it may be beneficial to concentrate research on finding a cure for this disease, even though it may not benefit the majority. By finding a cure for the disease, researchers can improve the quality of life for those affected and their families.
In conclusion, I strongly agree with the recommendation that scientists and other researchers should prioritize their efforts on areas that have the potential to benefit the greatest number of people. By doing so, research can have a tangible and positive impact on society, efficiently use resources, and address pressing societal issues. However, there may be exceptions where focusing on a specific area may be more advantageous, such as in the case of rare diseases. Nevertheless, prioritizing research on areas that benefit the majority is crucial for promoting progress and improving the lives of people around the world.
Why This Essay Earns a Perfect Score
This essay earns a perfect score because it effectively argues for the recommendation that scientists and researchers should prioritize their efforts on areas that benefit the majority. The essay is well-structured and uses relevant examples to support the author’s stance. The introduction clearly states the author’s position and the main points that will be discussed in the essay. The body paragraphs provide strong arguments, such as the efficient use of resources and addressing pressing societal issues, to support the recommendation. The counterargument is also addressed, showing the author’s ability to consider alternative perspectives. Additionally, the essay uses appropriate transitions to connect ideas and maintain coherence. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and reinforces the author’s stance. Overall, this essay demonstrates critical thinking, strong reasoning, and effective writing skills, earning it a perfect score.
Key Takeaways
From this essay, we can take away the following key points:
- Focusing research on areas that benefit the majority is essential for maximizing the impact of research and efficiently using limited resources.
- Research that benefits the majority can also address pressing societal issues.
- There may be exceptions where focusing on a specific area may be more advantageous, such as in the case of rare diseases.
- The essay effectively argues for the recommendation by providing strong reasons and relevant examples.
- The essay is well-structured, coherent, and uses appropriate transitions.