Some people think that studying from the past teaches us nothing about today’s life. Others argue that history is a valuable source of information. Discuss both views and give your opinion. | Real exam ielts writing task 2 |

✍️ IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer

Question:
Some people think that studying from the past teaches us nothing about today’s life. Others argue that history is a valuable source of information. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

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In the modern world, where science and technology dominate, the relevance of history is often questioned. While some individuals believe that the past has no practical value for present-day life, others argue that history remains an essential source of learning. This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own opinion.

On the one hand, critics of studying history argue that the challenges faced in the past differ significantly from those of today. For instance, wars fought with swords or disputes over monarchies have little connection with the current digital age, where issues such as artificial intelligence, globalization, and climate change dominate. From this viewpoint, focusing too much on past events might waste time that could otherwise be devoted to science, technology, or innovation—fields that directly shape our future. Moreover, people often fear that glorifying history may also revive outdated ideologies or prejudices that no longer serve society.

On the other hand, history provides us with crucial lessons that are still highly relevant. Firstly, it acts as a reminder of human mistakes, helping us to avoid repeating them. For example, studying the world wars highlights the devastating effects of aggression, thus promoting peace and diplomacy in international relations. Secondly, history fosters a sense of identity and culture. Traditions, values, and national pride are rooted in historical experiences, which help individuals and societies understand who they are. Finally, history also acts as a source of inspiration, as stories of great leaders and social reformers encourage present generations to face challenges with courage and wisdom.

In my opinion, history is indispensable for modern life. While it is true that not all historical knowledge is directly applicable to today’s issues, dismissing it altogether would be unwise. A balanced approach is necessary, where history is studied not in isolation but alongside modern subjects, ensuring that societies learn from the past while preparing for the future.

In conclusion, although some people argue that history has little to teach us in the present, I strongly believe it plays a vital role in guiding human behavior, preserving cultural identity, and shaping better decision-making for the future.