IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business, and the academic world Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer:
The debate over whether information should be shared freely or restricted to those with a genuine need is a contentious one. On the one hand, some argue that open sharing of information is beneficial as it encourages creativity, facilitates research and encourages collaboration. On the other, some hold the view that some information is too valuable to be released, and that secrecy is essential if certain data is to remain secure. This essay will analyse both sides of this argument before proposing a conclusion.
Proponents of open sharing of information maintain that it is the only way to encourage creativity and collaboration. For example, the open source software movement has enabled developers from across the globe to collaborate on software projects, resulting in applications that are used by millions of people around the world. Furthermore, open access to academic journals has enabled researchers to access data from across the globe and has encouraged interdisciplinary research. Open information sharing can also be seen as a way of fostering trust between organisations and encouraging collaboration.
However, there are some who argue that information should not be freely shared, and that some data is too valuable or too sensitive to be released. For example, in the business world, many organisations choose to keep certain information confidential in order to protect their competitive advantage. This argument is also valid in the academic world, where the open access to certain journals may lead to the replication of research and the theft of ideas.
In conclusion, while open information sharing can be beneficial in some cases, there are also times when it is necessary to keep certain information confidential. For this reason, it is important to consider the implications of releasing certain information before deciding whether or not to share it. In my opinion, information should only be shared when there is a genuine need for it, and when the benefits outweigh any potential risks.