Discussion essay- space programs vs poverty

Question: Some individuals argue that governments should allocate more resources to space programs, while others contend that the government’s primary focus should be on alleviating poverty. Discuss both perspectives and provide your own opinion

Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre


In the ongoing debate over government priorities, there are two prominent perspectives regarding the allocation of resources: investing more in space programs or focusing on eradicating poverty. Each viewpoint carries its own merits and drawbacks.

Supporters of increased investment in space programs argue that exploration and research beyond Earth’s boundaries contribute to technological advancements and scientific knowledge. The space industry has historically yielded numerous technological spin-offs, including advancements in telecommunications, medical imaging, and materials science. Advocates contend that by pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and capabilities, space programs can stimulate innovation and economic growth, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

On the other side of the spectrum, proponents of poverty eradication emphasize the pressing need to address socio-economic disparities and uplift marginalized communities. They argue that directing funds toward poverty alleviation programs can lead to immediate and tangible improvements in the quality of life for a significant portion of the population. Investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure in impoverished areas are seen as essential for creating a more equitable and just society.

In my opinion, while space exploration and poverty eradication may seem like divergent priorities, they are not mutually exclusive. Governments can strike a balance by investing in both areas, recognizing the potential benefits of space programs while addressing the immediate needs of their citizens. Effective governance involves careful resource allocation to ensure that scientific exploration contributes to societal development and well-being.

In conclusion, the debate between investing in space programs and poverty eradication reflects the complex challenges governments face in allocating limited resources. Striking a balance between these priorities is crucial to fostering a society that embraces both technological progress and social equity.


List of vocabulary used:

  1. Debate – A discussion or argument about different viewpoints.
  2. Prominent – Important, well-known, or highly regarded.
  3. Allocation – The distribution or assignment of resources.
  4. Eradicating – Completely removing or eliminating something.
  5. Merits – Positive qualities or advantages.
  6. Drawbacks – Negative aspects or disadvantages.
  7. Advocates – Supporters or promoters of a cause or idea.
  8. Spin-offs – Unintended but useful results or products derived from a main activity or research.
  9. Telecommunications – The transmission of information over distances, typically through electronic systems.
  10. Medical Imaging – Techniques used to create visual representations of the inside of a body for clinical purposes.
  11. Materials Science – The study of materials and their properties, often leading to technological innovation.
  12. Contend – To argue or assert a position strongly.
  13. Innovation – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products.
  14. Economic Growth – The increase in the value of goods and services produced by an economy.
  15. Society – A community of people living together and interacting within a defined territory.
  16. Spectrum – A range or scope of different things.
  17. Proponents – People who argue in favour of something.
  18. Socio-economic – Relating to both social and economic factors.
  19. Disparities – Differences, often referring to inequality or imbalances.
  20. Uplift – To raise or improve the condition of someone or something.
  21. Alleviation – The reduction or easing of something, typically hardship or suffering.
  22. Impoverished – Very poor or lacking in resources.
  23. Equitable – Fair or just, treating everyone equally.
  24. Mutually Exclusive – Two things that cannot happen or be true at the same time.
  25. Governance – The act of governing or managing public affairs.
  26. Resource Allocation – The process of distributing resources to various needs or projects.
  27. Scientific Exploration – The study and investigation of new scientific ideas or the physical world.
  28. Societal Development – The process of improving the social, economic, and cultural conditions of a society.
  29. Well-being – The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
  30. Striking a Balance – Finding a middle ground or compromise between two opposing forces or priorities.
  31. Fostering – Encouraging or promoting the development of something.
  32. Technological Progress – Advancements or improvements in technology.
  33. Social Equity – The concept of fairness and justice within a society, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

IELTS Speaking Task Topics | Tasks 1, 2 & 3 Model Questions & Answers

IELTS Speaking Task Topics

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