The question of whether the world is changing for the better or worse is not new, and it has been a subject of debate for many years. The SAT essay prompt “Is the world changing for the better?” takes on this question and challenges students to think critically about global progress. While some argue that the world is heading in a positive direction, others believe that we are experiencing the worst period in history.
Defining ‘Better’
Before we delve into the arguments for and against the statement, it is essential to define what we mean by “better.” The term “better” is subjective, and what might be considered progress by some may not be by others. While some may believe that technological advancements and economic growth are essential measures of progress, others may prioritize social justice and environmental sustainability.
Argument For
Advocates of the idea that the world is changing for the better point to several factors, including the decline of global poverty and the increase in global life expectancy. According to a report by the World Bank, extreme poverty dropped to 9.2% in 2017, compared to 36% in 1990.[^1] Also, the World Health Organization reports that the average global life expectancy has increased to 73.3 years, compared to 50.6 years in 1960.
Technological advancements are another key area of progress. Breakthroughs in science and medicine have led to significant improvements in global health and well-being. The internet and social media have also revolutionized communication and brought us closer together with the ability to access information at the click of the button.
Argument Against
Despite the measurable progress made in several areas, others argue that we are currently experiencing the worst period in history. The UNDP’s 2020 Human Development Report ranks the world’s overall human development lowest since 1990.[^2] Climate change, political unrest, and economic inequality are some of the many challenges that the world faces.
The United Nations reports that nearly 60 million people were displaced from their homes in 2020, the highest number ever recorded. Conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Ethiopia have displaced millions of people from their homes and caused a massive humanitarian crisis. Natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and floods are becoming more severe, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the statement that the world is changing for the better is highly subjective and is dependent on how one measures progress. While there have been significant advancements in some areas of life, many people worldwide still face unprecedented challenges. The world is not perfect, and it is clear that we still have a long way to go before we can say with certainty that the world is changing for the better. However, we can’t ignore the progress made so far and should strive to do better in areas where improvement is necessary.
Key Takeaways
- The definition of ‘better’ is subjective.
- The decline of global poverty, increase in life expectancy, and technological advancements are measures of progress.
- Climate change, political unrest, and economic inequality represent some of the many challenges that the world faces.
- Nearly 60 million people were displaced from their homes in 2020, the highest number ever recorded.
- Striving to do better in areas where improvement is necessary is essential for continued progress.
FAQ
Q: Is the world changing for the better?
A: The answer to this question is highly subjective, and it depends on how one measures progress. While there have been significant advancements in some areas of life, many people worldwide still face unprecedented challenges.
Q: What challenges does the world face?
A: Climate change, political unrest, and economic inequality represent some of the many challenges that the world faces. Additionally, natural disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, and floods are becoming more severe, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Q: What measures of progress are there?
A: The decline of global poverty, increase in life expectancy, and technological advancements are some of the measures of progress. However, progress is subjective, and what may be considered progress by some may not be by others.