WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge.
Write about the following topic:
Television has had a significant influence on the culture of many societies. To what extent would you say that television has positively or negatively affected the cultural development of society?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
Television has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping the culture of many societies around the world. Its influence on our daily lives and the way we perceive the world cannot be overstated. In this essay, I will discuss the positive and negative impacts of television on the cultural development of society.
On the positive side, television has been instrumental in promoting cultural diversity and awareness. It has provided a platform for showcasing different cultures, traditions, and customs, thereby fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the world’s diversity. Through documentaries, travel shows, and cultural programs, television has exposed viewers to new ideas, beliefs, and ways of life, ultimately contributing to a more open and inclusive society.
Furthermore, television has served as a medium for preserving and promoting traditional cultural practices and art forms. Many communities have been able to showcase their unique cultural heritage through television programs, thus helping to safeguard their traditions from being lost in the face of modernization and globalization.
However, the negative impact of television on cultural development cannot be ignored. The proliferation of Western media and pop culture through television has led to the homogenization of cultures, with many societies adopting Western values and norms at the expense of their own traditions. This has resulted in the erosion of local cultures and the loss of traditional values, customs, and languages.
Moreover, the rise of reality TV and sensationalist programming has perpetuated negative stereotypes and distorted representations of certain cultures, leading to prejudice and discrimination. In some cases, television has been used as a tool for political propaganda, further exacerbating cultural tensions and divisions within society.
In conclusion, television has had both positive and negative effects on the cultural development of society. While it has contributed to greater cultural awareness and diversity, it has also led to the erosion of traditional values and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. It is crucial for television networks and policymakers to promote responsible and inclusive programming that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters mutual understanding among different communities. Only then can television be a force for positive cultural development in society.
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