You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
People should look after their health for personal benefits, rather than a duty for a society.
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
The assertion that individuals should prioritize their health primarily for personal gains, rather than as an obligation towards society, ignites a compelling discussion. This essay leans towards the view that personal health should indeed be maintained principally for individual benefits. This stance will be elaborated upon by highlighting the empowerment of personal autonomy in health decisions and the psychological benefits of self-care.
Primarily, personal autonomy in health-related choices is a cornerstone of individual freedom and empowerment. When individuals prioritize their health for personal reasons, they are more inclined to make informed and self-directed choices. This autonomy not only fosters a sense of ownership over one’s health decisions but also encourages a deeper understanding and appreciation of the value of good health. For instance, a person choosing to quit smoking due to personal health concerns is likely to be more committed to this decision than if motivated by societal pressure. This self-driven approach not only results in more meaningful health outcomes but also respects the individual’s right to choose their health priorities.
Furthermore, focusing on personal health benefits promotes psychological well-being. Taking care of one's health for personal satisfaction can significantly boost self-esteem and mental health. This approach aligns with the concept of self-compassion, where individuals prioritize their well-being not out of selfishness, but out of recognition of the intrinsic value of their health. This perspective is crucial in a world where mental health is increasingly recognized as equally important as physical health. Engaging in healthy practices like exercise or balanced nutrition for personal enjoyment and well-being can lead to a happier, more contented life, reinforcing the idea that looking after one's health should primarily be for personal benefits.
In conclusion, prioritizing personal health for individual benefits is not only pragmatic but also aligns with the principles of autonomy and psychological well-being. This approach respects individual choice and acknowledges the diverse motivations behind health-related behaviors. By focusing on personal health benefits, individuals are likely to develop a more sustainable, fulfilling approach to maintaining their health, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.
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Sample Essay 2
The debate over whether individuals should prioritize their health chiefly for personal benefits or as a duty to society is a subject of considerable importance. This essay agrees strongly with the former position: people should primarily look after their health for personal benefits. This perspective will be explored by examining the intrinsic value of personal well-being and the limitations of viewing health as a societal obligation.
Firstly, personal health is a fundamental asset for an individual's overall quality of life. When individuals prioritize their health for their own sake, they are more likely to engage in consistent, sustainable health-promoting behaviors. For instance, someone exercising and maintaining a balanced diet for personal satisfaction and well-being is more likely to adhere to these healthy habits long-term. This self-motivated approach to health not only enhances physical fitness but also bolsters mental health, leading to a more fulfilling and productive life. The notion that “people should look after their health for personal benefits” is thus not just a matter of preference, but a pathway to greater personal happiness and fulfillment.
Secondly, the concept of health as a societal duty has its limitations. While it is undeniable that a healthier population can contribute to a more robust society, mandating health as a social responsibility may lead to undue pressure and potential stigmatization of those with health issues beyond their control. This perspective can inadvertently foster a culture of blame, where individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities may feel marginalized. Furthermore, societal health is a collective outcome of numerous factors, including access to healthcare, environmental conditions, and socio-economic status, and thus cannot be solely the responsibility of individual actions.
In conclusion, while maintaining one's health undoubtedly has societal benefits, the primary motivation should be personal well-being. This approach not only ensures sustained commitment to a healthy lifestyle but also respects the diverse circumstances and capabilities of individuals.
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Sample Essay 3
A person's health is a unique attribute that should be actively maintained for personal well-being. I wholeheartedly concur with this assertion and think that maintaining good health shouldn't be seen as a social duty. The lines that follow, however, will clarify how living a healthy personal life may also make a substantial contribution to society.
In general, individuals should drive themselves to have active, healthy lives, and this should be for their own advantages. First of all, a person with a preference for nutritious meals and physical activities has a stronger immune system than someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle. People who are healthy have a higher chance of living longer and experiencing life to the fullest. For instance, it is not surprising that Spain has a high overall happiness index because its citizens are very physically fit and healthy.
In addition, I think that having good health has a hugely beneficial cascading impact on society from the perspective of one's obligation to that society. First and foremost, it eases the strain on the nation's healthcare system and aids in providing resources for the poor people. Furthermore, as people like to follow fitness celebrities for guidance on healthy routines and exceptional diets rather than for entertainment, healthy individuals immediately inspire others. Thus, keeping fit for personal reasons is a form of self-discharged obligation to society.
In summary, every person is driven by his or her health, and a society is a collective form of individuals. As a result, if people prioritize their own health, society as a whole can profit from it. We are thus not intended to take care of our health for anybody or anything other than ourselves.
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