英検1級エッセイ問題に挑戦!

2016年度2回(2016年10月実施)

● Write an essay on the given TOPIC.
● Give THREE reasons to support your answer.
● Structure: Introduction, main body, and conclusion
● Suggested length: 200-240 words
● Write your essay in the space provided on Side B of your answer sheet.
Any writing outside the space will not be graded.

TOPIC：Should democratic nations actively promote the spread of democracy to nondemocratic nations?

MODEL ANSWER

“Yes” Answer

　　It is clear that democratic government is the best situation for citizens. Democratic government depends on the will of the people, promotes peace and stability, and provides equal rights for citizens. I think democratic nations should actively promote democracy for all nations.

　　Democracy is government by the people. The tools of democracy allow the people to influence powerful groups, including the government. This is done, first, through elections. It might also mean a grass roots effort to influence the media, industry, or the government.

　　Democratic government generally creates stabiltiy and peace. When change is necessary, it is done under democratic rules. In an autocratic government, any disagreement with the ruling party is dangerous. Change only occurs from the top by decree. Or, in extreme cases, by overthrowing the government. Democracy helps maintain peace and stability both in the society and in the world.

　　Related to rule of law is the idea of equal rights for everyone. A proper functioning democracy will give everyone equal protection of the law and equal opportunities in various fields, which would not be the case in nondemocratic nations. In a democracy, people from ordinary backgrounds can achieve great things.

　　We are blessed to live in a democratic nation. I’d like to see all democracies take a more active role in promoting democracy.

(217 words)

“No” Answer

　　I’m glad I live in a democratic nation. Nevertheless, I do not think it is proper to push other countries toward democracy.

　　In a proper democracy, the government and political system follow the will of the people. The problem is that everyone has different situations, needs, and goals. In many situations democracy makes it hard to move the country in a certain direction. This is called gridlock. An autocratic country like China has built high-speed rail all over the country. In the United States different groups disagree about building high-speed rail. In the end, nothing happens.

　　Another problem with democracy is that politicians get elected because of name recognition, good looks, or a populist message. If you tell people what they want to hear, they might vote for you. A former movie actor was President of the United States and a former comedian was Governor of Tokyo. This is not a proper qualification for running the government.

　　Lastly, intervention in the politics of other countries is dangerous. It causes instability. Sometimes it causes terrorism or war. At the moment it is safe to say that Libya and Iraq did not benefit from outside efforts to force them toward democracy.

　　In conclusion, democratic nations should avoid pushing other nations toward democracy.

(212 words)