Learning about the past has no value for us living in the present - IELTS Task 2 Essay Sample Band 9

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Learning about the past has no value for those of us living in the present.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.

You should write at least 250 words.

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Sample Essay 1

Exploring historical events may seem irrelevant to contemporary living for some, suggesting that understanding bygone eras offers little to those navigating the present. However, this viewpoint overlooks the profound insights and lessons history provides, a notion I firmly oppose. This essay will elucidate the invaluable lessons history imparts for present decision-making and its role in shaping future directions.

Firstly, historical knowledge serves as a compass guiding current decisions, a beacon for navigating the complexities of modern life. By studying past successes and failures, individuals and societies can make informed choices, avoiding the repetition of historical mistakes. For example, the economic policies leading to the Great Depression of the 1920s offer crucial lessons on the consequences of unregulated financial markets, informing current economic governance to prevent similar downturns. Similarly, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, underscores the importance of diplomacy over aggression, a principle crucially applicable in today’s volatile geopolitical climate.

Moreover, history is a repository of collective wisdom, fostering a sense of identity and unity that binds communities together. Understanding the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors provides not just a sense of belonging but also a continuity that is essential for societal cohesion. The civil rights movements across the world, for instance, not only showcase the fight for equality and justice but also inspire ongoing efforts against discrimination, demonstrating how past struggles inform and enrich current advocacy. This historical perspective instills a sense of responsibility to continue advocating for change, highlighting the enduring relevance of history in shaping societal values and actions.

In conclusion, dismissing the study of history as irrelevant is a myopic perspective that fails to recognize its crucial role in informing present choices and shaping a cohesive society. History is not just about the past; it is a lens through which we understand our present and envision our future, making it indispensable for anyone living in the present.

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Sample Essay 2

The assertion that learning about the past holds no value for the contemporary era is a perspective that undermines the foundational lessons history imparts. I contend that historical awareness is pivotal, enriching our understanding of the present and guiding future decisions. This essay will explore how historical insights foster critical thinking and cultural empathy, elements crucial for societal progress.

Delving into history cultivates critical thinking, enabling us to scrutinize present-day issues through a broader, more informed lens. For instance, analyzing the complex factors that precipitated World War II, such as the perilous blend of nationalism and appeasement, offers stark warnings against repeating such errors in contemporary international relations. This rich historical understanding encourages a more nuanced, comprehensive approach to today’s diplomatic challenges, advocating for policies rooted in mutual respect, cooperation, and collective security rather than isolationism and unilateralism. Such a perspective is vital in navigating the intricacies of global politics with foresight and prudence.

Furthermore, historical awareness significantly enhances cultural empathy, effectively bridging divides and fostering a resilient global community. By learning about the diverse cultural tapestries that have intricately woven the fabric of civilizations, individuals gain a profound appreciation for the richness and complexity of human heritage. The Renaissance, a period marked by unparalleled artistic and intellectual flourishing, underscores the indispensable value of cross-cultural exchanges and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Recognizing the interconnectedness of our past, and how it shapes our present, helps to dismantle deeply ingrained prejudices, promoting a more inclusive, understanding, and empathetic worldview. This historical insight is pivotal in cultivating a sense of global solidarity and shared humanity.

In conclusion, relegating history to the annals of irrelevance does a disservice to its profound impact on shaping a thoughtful, inclusive society. The lessons drawn from our collective past are not mere footnotes but are integral to navigating the complexities of the present and future with wisdom and empathy. Hence, the study of history is not only valuable but essential for those living in the present.

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Sample Essay 3

Nowadays, some assert that it is useless for us who live in the constantly changing world to learn history. However, I strongly disagree with this statement, I believe knowing history helps us rectify the previous mistakes and instil patriotism in our mind, as it passes the national sacrifices and glories along the generations.

Knowledge about the past plays a crucial role in understanding the present and predicting the future. This is because past issues will likely be repeated in the future when historical knowledge will assist us in overcoming the relevant challenges. For example, many years ago, the world experienced a pandemic disease that killed thousands of people in many countries, the disease and the scenarios were similar to the ones that we are going through now. In these circumstances, by studying the epidemic diseases that the world previously faced, people have been constantly combating COVID-19, a deadly contagious malady which is sweeping the world with millions of lives.

Another reason for this is because numerous virtues could be cultivated through studying history. To be specific, children who are educated with the glorious time of their home country tend to be more patriotic and confident with their own culture. Consequently, the cohesion along with integrity of the country can be enormously boosted. Furthermore, after learning about the tragic history, when citizens were living in a pathetic condition, people would be inspired to devote themselves to eradicate the suffering.

In conclusion, I firmly object to the perspective that learning history is of no use as it could not only broaden people’s insight to the world, but also aid the development of their virtues. It is conceivable that only when people gain a comprehensive understanding of past experience can they establish a solid foundation for the future.

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