๐ Written Ability Test (WAT) Analysis Guide
๐ Topic: Should Military Alliances Be Replaced by Economic Alliances in the Future?
๐ Understanding the Topicโs Importance
๐ก Military and economic alliances represent the twin pillars of international relations. Analyzing this transition addresses questions of resource allocation, global stability, and sustainable growthโcritical themes for B-school essays.
๐ Effective Planning and Writing
- โฑ๏ธ Time Allocation:
- Planning: 5 minutes
- Writing: 20 minutes
- Review: 5 minutes
- ๐ Preparation Tips:
- Note key examples, global comparisons, and statistics.
- Understand the objectives and outcomes of military alliances (e.g., NATO) and economic partnerships (e.g., ASEAN, RCEP).
โ๏ธ Introduction Techniques for Essays
- โ๏ธ Contrast Approach:
“While NATO symbolizes collective defense, ASEAN embodies collective growth. This juxtaposition raises an essential question: Should military alliances pave the way for economic integration?”
- ๐ Timeline Approach:
“From NATOโs post-war establishment to RCEPโs recent economic integration, alliances have evolved, reflecting changing global priorities.”
๐ Structuring the Essay Body
- ๐ Achievements:
- Military alliances deter conflicts, as evidenced by NATO’s role in maintaining stability during the Cold War.
- Economic blocs like ASEAN and the European Union (EU) have accelerated trade, development, and regional growth.
- โ ๏ธ Challenges:
- Inefficiencies and costs associated with military alliances, such as defense spending burdens on member states.
- Political volatility in economic partnerships, where disagreements can undermine collective growth (e.g., Brexit).
- ๐ Future Outlook:
“Advocate for hybrid models balancing security needs with economic interdependence, leveraging the strengths of both types of alliances.”
๐ Concluding Effectively
- โ๏ธ Balanced Conclusion:
“Replacing military alliances with economic alliances must ensure security gaps are addressed while maximizing economic benefits.”
- ๐ Future-Focused Conclusion:
“The future of alliances lies in creating synergies between defense readiness and economic integration.”
๐ฑ Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
- ๐ค Hybrid Models: Integrate economic and defense priorities, as seen in agreements like USMCA, which address trade and security.
- ๐ Technology Focus: Leverage AI and cybersecurity as neutral domains for global collaboration, merging security and economic benefits.
๐ Sample Short Essays
- โ๏ธ Balanced Perspective:
“Military alliances have safeguarded peace, but economic alliances ensure stability. Both must coexist to address modern global challenges.”
- ๐ก Solution-Oriented:
“The transition to economic alliances must involve safeguards against security risks, with a focus on global economic equality.”
- ๐ Global Comparison:
“ASEANโs economic success and NATOโs defense efficiency highlight the potential for hybrid alliances.”