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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - QuestionIn recent years, technology has played an increasingly important role in democratic processes. Discuss the impact of this development on the functioning of democracy and whether it has led to a more inclusive or exclusive society.

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Question:"In recent years, technology has played an increasingly important role in democratic processes. Discuss the impact of this development on the functioning of democracy and whether it has led to a more inclusive or exclusive society."

Model Answer:

Technology has had a profound impact on the democratic process in recent years. While it is true that technological advancements have democratized access to information and increased political participation, they have also given rise to new forms of manipulation and exclusion, thus creating a paradoxical scenario where technology both empowers and disenfranchises citizens.

On the one hand, technology has facilitated greater political engagement by providing platforms for open communication between citizens and their representatives. Social media, for instance, has allowed individuals to voice their opinions on issues of public importance, engage in debates with people from diverse backgrounds, and connect with like-minded groups. Furthermore, digital voting systems have the potential to streamline electoral processes, increasing voter turnout and reducing instances of fraud or error.

On the other hand, technology has also exacerbated existing inequalities and created new forms of exclusion. The digital divide – a gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not – is particularly concerning. Those without internet access or digital literacy are at a significant disadvantage when it comes to participating in online political discussions, accessing information about candidates and policies, and even casting their votes. This can lead to a situation where the voices of marginalized groups are silenced, perpetuating social inequality.

Moreover, the rise of 'fake news' and targeted online advertising has undermined the democratic process by misleading voters and manipulating public opinion. Social media algorithms can create echo chambers, where users are exposed to information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs, thereby narrowing the scope of debate and reducing the diversity of perspectives considered in political discourse. This phenomenon not only polarizes society but also facilitates the spread of disinformation, which can have severe consequences for the stability of democracies.

In conclusion, while technology has undoubtedly contributed to making democratic processes more transparent and engaging, it has also created new challenges that threaten the foundations of democracy. It is crucial for policymakers to address these issues by promoting digital literacy, implementing measures against disinformation, and ensuring equal access to digital technologies. Only then can we harness the full potential of technology in fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.

Score (according to IELTS scoring standards):

Task Response: 9
Coherence and Cohesion: 8.5
Lexical Resource: 8.5
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8.5

Overall Band Score: 8.5

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