84. Some people believe that technology has made man more sociable while others believe it has made us less sociable.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Sample Answer 1

Band 8.5

Technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we communicate and interact with each other. Some people argue that this has made us more sociable, while others contend that it has made us less sociable. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my own opinion.

On the one hand, technology has enabled us to connect with people from different parts of the world, regardless of time and distance. We can use social media platforms, video calls, online forums, and other tools to share our thoughts, feelings, experiences, and interests with others. This can enhance our social skills, broaden our perspectives, and enrich our lives. For example, a study by Pew Research Center found that social media users tend to have more diverse and supportive social networks than non-users (Smith, 2014).

On the other hand, technology can also have a negative impact on our sociability. Some people may rely too much on technology and neglect face-to-face interactions, which are essential for building trust, empathy, and intimacy. Technology can also distract us from our present surroundings and make us less attentive to the people around us. Moreover, technology can expose us to cyberbullying, misinformation, and other online risks that can harm our mental health and well-being. 

In my opinion, technology is neither inherently good nor bad for our sociability. It depends on how we use it and balance it with other forms of communication. Technology can be a powerful tool to enhance our social connections, but it should not replace or diminish our real-life interactions. We should also be aware of the potential dangers of technology and take measures to protect ourselves and others online.

To conclude, technology has both positive and negative effects on our sociability. I believe that we should use technology wisely and responsibly, and not let it dominate or isolate us from our social environment.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Word: Undoubtedly: (adverb) - Without doubt or question.

Example: Undoubtedly, technology has revolutionized how we connect and interact with each other.

Word: Contend: (verb) - To argue or claim firmly.

Example: Some people contend that technology has made us less sociable, while others believe it has made us more connected.

Word: Regardless: (preposition) - Without being affected by something else.

Example: Technology allows us to connect with others regardless of distance or time zones.

Word: Perspectives: (noun) - A way of thinking about something.

Example: Engaging with diverse online communities can broaden our perspectives and understanding of the world.

Word: Empathy: (noun) - The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.

Example: Face-to-face interactions can help us develop empathy and emotional intelligence.

Word: Cyberbullying: (noun) - The use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature.

Word: Misinformation: (noun) - False or misleading information that is presented as fact.

Example: We need to be critical consumers of information online and be aware of the potential for misinformation and online risks.

Word: Inherently: (adjective) - Existing in something as a permanent and essential part.

Example: Technology is not inherently good or bad for our sociability; it depends on how we use it.

Word: Dominate: (verb) - To control something completely.

Example: We should ensure technology doesn't dominate our lives and replace meaningful real-life interactions.

84. Some people believe that technology has made man more sociable while others believe it has made us less sociable.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Sample Answer 2

Band 8.5

The advent of technology has changed the way we socialize with each other. Some people believe that technology has made us more sociable, while others believe that it has made us less sociable. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and give my personal view.

On the one hand, technology has made us more sociable by allowing us to communicate and collaborate with people across the globe. We can use various devices and applications to stay in touch with our friends and family, make new acquaintances, join online communities, and participate in social events. Technology can also help us to overcome barriers such as language, culture, and disability, and foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. For example, a research by Oxford University showed that online gaming can improve social skills and well-being among children and adolescents.

On the other hand, technology can also make us less sociable by reducing the quality and quantity of our face-to-face interactions. Some people may become addicted to technology and isolate themselves from the real world, or use technology as a substitute for genuine human contact. Technology can also create conflicts, misunderstandings, and loneliness, as we may lose the nuances and emotions of verbal and non-verbal communication. Furthermore, technology can expose us to online threats such as hacking, phishing, and trolling, which can damage our reputation and relationships.

In my view, technology is a double-edged sword that can affect our sociability in both positive and negative ways. It depends on how we use it and balance it with other modes of socialization. Technology can be a beneficial tool to expand our social horizons, but it should not overshadow or undermine our offline interactions. We should also be mindful of the possible risks of technology and take steps to safeguard ourselves and others on the internet.

To sum up, technology has both advantages and disadvantages for our sociability. I think that we should use technology prudently and ethically, and not let it control or alienate us from our social context.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Word: Advent: (noun) - The arrival or start of something important.

Example: The advent of social media and messaging apps has profoundly altered our social interactions.

Word: Collaboration: (noun) - Working together on something.

Example: Online platforms facilitate collaboration on projects and foster connections across borders.

Word: Barriers: (noun) - Obstacles or limitations that prevent progress.

Word: Inclusion: (noun) - The act or process of including something or someone.

Example: Technology can help overcome social barriers and promote inclusion of diverse individuals and communities.

Word: Nuances: (noun) - Subtle differences or shades of meaning.

Example: Face-to-face interactions allow us to better grasp the emotional nuances of communication.

Word: Double-edged sword: (noun) - Something that has both positive and negative aspects.

Example: Technology presents a double-edged sword for sociability, offering connection but also potential pitfalls.

Word: Prudently: (adverb) - Wisely and carefully.

Example: We must use technology prudently to maximize its benefits and minimize its drawbacks.

Word: Ethically: (adverb) - In accordance with moral principles.

Example: Responsible online behavior and respect for others are crucial for ethical engagement in the digital space.