Compare The Contributions of Artists with The Contributions of Scientists to Society - IELTS Band 9 Sample Essay

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Model Essay 1

It is widely accepted that collective progress depends on the diverse contributions of individuals. Both artists and scientists play indispensable roles in shaping society; however, they are not valued equally. This essay argues that although artists enrich emotional, cultural, and moral life, the contributions of scientists are ultimately valued more by society due to their direct impact on survival, economic growth, and measurable advancement. The discussion will examine cultural influence versus practical necessity to justify this position.

Artists contribute to society by shaping cultural identity, preserving collective memory, and offering emotional meaning that cannot be quantified. Through literature, music, film, and visual art, they challenge dominant narratives, give voice to marginalized experiences, and help societies reflect on moral dilemmas. For example, powerful novels and films have influenced public opinion on war, inequality, and human rights more effectively than political speeches. Moreover, during periods of crisis, such as pandemics or social unrest, art provides psychological relief and a sense of shared humanity. Despite this profound influence, artistic contributions often produce long-term, intangible benefits. As a result, they are frequently regarded as secondary or “non-essential,” especially in societies that prioritise productivity, technological efficiency, and economic outcomes over emotional and cultural well-being.

By contrast, scientists are generally valued more because their work produces immediate, visible, and indispensable results. Scientific advancements underpin modern healthcare, infrastructure, communication, and food security—areas directly linked to human survival and national development. Vaccines, renewable energy technologies, and digital systems not only save lives but also generate economic stability and global competitiveness. Governments and institutions therefore invest heavily in scientific research, viewing it as a strategic necessity rather than a luxury. Furthermore, scientific progress is easily measured through data, innovation, and financial return, which aligns closely with how modern societies define success. While scientific work may lack emotional resonance, its ability to solve urgent problems ensures higher recognition, funding, and institutional support.

In conclusion, although artists profoundly enrich society by shaping culture and emotional understanding, scientists are valued more because their contributions address immediate, practical needs and drive measurable progress. This preference reflects society’s prioritisation of survival, efficiency, and economic growth over cultural and emotional enrichment.

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Model Essay 2

It is commonly argued that social progress relies on the varied efforts of its members, yet not all contributions receive equal recognition. While both artists and scientists shape society in meaningful ways, this essay contends that scientists are valued more highly in contemporary societies. This preference stems from the authority scientists hold in decision-making, their central role in managing risk and uncertainty, and the scalability of their impact through institutions—points that will be critically examined below.

Scientists tend to be valued more because their expertise carries institutional authority and directly informs public policy and governance. In moments of uncertainty, societies instinctively turn to scientific voices for guidance, whether on climate change, public health, or technological regulation. For instance, during global health emergencies, epidemiologists and medical researchers influence government decisions that affect millions of lives, from lockdown policies to vaccination strategies. This authority elevates scientists beyond individual contributors to trusted architects of collective action. Artists, by contrast, may inspire debate or reflection, but they rarely shape laws or national strategies. Consequently, society assigns greater value to those whose knowledge is perceived as objective, reliable, and immediately applicable to large-scale decision-making.

Another reason scientists are more highly valued lies in their ability to manage risk and reduce vulnerability in complex modern systems. Contemporary societies face threats that are technical rather than purely moral, such as cybersecurity breaches, environmental degradation, or engineering failures. Scientific research provides predictive models, preventive solutions, and contingency planning that safeguard stability. For example, climate scientists enable governments and industries to anticipate disasters and mitigate long-term damage, while engineers design systems that prevent catastrophic collapse. Artistic contributions, though intellectually stimulating, do not typically offer protective mechanisms against such systemic risks. As a result, societies prioritise scientific work because it functions as a form of insurance against future uncertainty, reinforcing its perceived indispensability.

In conclusion, although artists enrich intellectual life and stimulate critical reflection, scientists are more highly valued due to their institutional authority and capacity to manage societal risk. This imbalance reflects a modern worldview that prizes control, predictability, and large-scale problem-solving over interpretive and expressive contributions.

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