Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life - IELTS Writing Task 2

History has always been a major part of education, yet its relevance in the modern world is often debated. Since this is a modern-day topic, it has been covered in the IELTS Writing Task 2 topic ‘Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life’, where you need to discuss both sides of the argument and finally conclude with your opinion.

To guide you in writing a high-scoring essay on your own, this blog provides three model Band 7+ sample answers and advanced vocabulary that can elevate your IELTS writing and prepare you for the recent IELTS Writing topics with answers.

Essay Question for ‘Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life’

Outline for IELTS Discussion Essay (with Opinion)

Below is an outline to help you understand how to write an IELTS discussion essay, especially with similar topics.

Sample Answers for Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life IELTS Writing Task 2

Here are 3 IELTS Band 9 essay samples on the topic, Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life, that will give you some ideas on what to write if you want to get a band score of 9.

Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life - Sample Answer 1

In today’s fast-evolving world, some people believe that studying history holds little significance for modern society. Although others claim it is essential for understanding human progress, I firmly believe that the overemphasis on the past can restrict innovation and divert attention from present and future challenges.

To begin with, supporters of historical study argue that it enables societies to learn from previous mistakes and preserve cultural identity. They contend that knowledge of revolutions, wars, and social reforms helps people appreciate national struggles and moral evolution. For instance, analysing past political movements may strengthen civic awareness and promote responsible governance. Nevertheless, history is often subject to interpretation and bias, meaning lessons drawn from it can be inconsistent or misleading. What was once relevant may not align with the complexities of today’s digital and globalised world.

Conversely, critics maintain that the modern era demands forward-thinking mindsets rather than retrospection. Issues such as artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, and economic inequality require scientific reasoning and innovation, not historical reflection. Moreover, excessive attachment to the past can fuel nationalism and prejudice, preventing societies from embracing multiculturalism and progress. Instead of glorifying old achievements, education should cultivate adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving skills to address contemporary realities.

In conclusion, while history offers limited insight into human development, its practical value in modern life is overstated. The world is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and depending on historical precedents may impede progress. Therefore, education systems should prioritise future-oriented disciplines that equip individuals to navigate emerging challenges and shape a more innovative and inclusive world.

Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life - Sample Answer 2

The function of history in modern life has become a heated topic of discussion in the modern world. Despite the arguments refuting the importance of historical knowledge, I am more convinced that history is an invaluable source of information for contemporary humans.

On the one hand, some people believe that historical knowledge is of no useful benefit for modern life. One noticeable reason is that learning about historical and sorrowful events in the past would bring painful feelings and loss of faith in humanity, rather than certain benefits. For example, memorizing terrorist attacks or inhumane events in the past seems to leave a doleful emotion and render modern people miserable since they cannot reverse history. In addition, most knowledge legacies from the past have become outdated in the modern contexts in which breakthroughs take place daily. Therefore, findings from researching history would be deemed unnecessary and have limited value to modern development.

On the other hand, I am of the opinion that one of the most valuable references nowadays comes from history. Firstly, the young generation can have more opportunities to access and inherit legacies from their ancestors. Past knowledge and discoveries could create a concrete foundation on which people can further develop advances with the goal of generating considerable contributions to modern humankind. Secondly, learning from mistakes in the previous growing process is an immensely valuable experience that modern people can use to avoid previous generations' mistakes. For example, by analyzing causes leading to disastrous world wars, governmental officials can draw lessons learnt, trying to compromise and abstain from provocations triggering another war.

In conclusion, from the above reasons, even though the role of history is undermined by some people, I would embrace the contribution of history as humankind’s precious source of information.

Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life - Sample Answer 3

In the modern world, many believe that studying history is irrelevant, while others argue that it remains a crucial source of wisdom. In my view, although history may not always offer immediate practical benefits, it provides essential insights into human behaviour, decision-making, and social development.

Those who dismiss the importance of history often claim that it has little connection to present-day life. They argue that focusing on science, technology, and innovation is far more beneficial for solving modern problems such as climate change, disease, and poverty. For instance, knowing about ancient empires or historical battles may not directly help an engineer design renewable energy systems or enable a doctor to cure complex illnesses. Therefore, from a pragmatic standpoint, history is often perceived as a luxury rather than a necessity in a world driven by progress and competition. Furthermore, critics assert that an excessive focus on the past can foster nostalgia and hinder societies from embracing new ideas and forward-looking solutions.

However, studying the past allows us to understand how societies evolve and avoid repeating earlier mistakes. Wars, political conflicts, and economic recessions have all offered invaluable lessons for humanity. For example, the two World Wars taught nations the importance of diplomacy, international cooperation, and peacebuilding efforts. Moreover, historical awareness helps individuals appreciate their cultural heritage and identity, strengthening unity and mutual respect in an increasingly globalised world. Without this awareness, societies risk losing their collective memory and sense of purpose.

In conclusion, while history may not yield immediate economic outcomes, it remains a vital discipline that shapes moral understanding, civic responsibility, and long-term progress. Hence, learning from the past continues to illuminate the path toward a more informed and balanced future.

 Vocabulary to Use for Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life - IELTS Writing Task 2

Have a look at the IELTS vocabulary used in the sample answers for ‘Some People Think Studying from the Past Offers No Benefits to Today's Life’.

To conclude, in order to score Band 7+ on this essay type, you need to discuss both sides clearly and fairly, use specific examples like wars, reforms, or cultural movements, present your opinion logically and restate it in the conclusion, and use topic-relevant vocabulary naturally throughout your essay. Therefore, develop the habit of taking IELTS Writing practice tests on a regular basis to review your writing abilities and learn the strategies needed for a top IELTS band score.

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