π Written Ability Test (WAT)/Essay Analysis Guide
π Topic: Should Governments Introduce Policies to Curb Wealth Inequality?
π Understanding the Importance
Wealth inequality impacts sustainable economic development, social stability, and political cohesion. Tackling this issue aligns with critical themes in B-school curricula, such as governance, ethics, and sustainable growth.
π Effective Planning and Writing
- β±οΈ Time Allocation:
- Planning: 5 minutes
- Writing: 20 minutes
- Reviewing: 5 minutes
π Introduction Techniques
- Contrast Approach: “While the top 1% amass unprecedented wealth, over 700 million people globally live on less than $2 a day. This stark disparity underscores the urgency of redistributive policies.”
- Timeline Approach: “From post-WWII welfare states to contemporary universal basic income experiments, governments have continually grappled with narrowing wealth gaps.”
π Structuring the Essay Body
π Achievements
- π Successful Models: Nordic countries have implemented welfare programs that reduce wealth inequality while maintaining strong economies.
- π° Poverty Reduction: Targeted government interventions have lifted millions out of poverty globally.
β οΈ Challenges with Comparative Analysis
- π Globalization: Free trade and capital flows have disproportionately benefited elites while widening wealth gaps.
- πΌ Elite Resistance: Entrenched interests often oppose redistributive policies, citing economic growth concerns.
π Future Outlook
- π Progressive Taxation: Introduce higher taxes on wealth and inheritance.
- π‘ Universal Basic Income: Experiment with providing citizens a guaranteed income to promote equity.
- π€ Global Cooperation: Address tax evasion and enforce fair tax policies through multilateral agreements.
π‘ Concluding Effectively
- Balanced Conclusion: “Addressing wealth inequality is crucial but requires nuanced policies balancing fairness and growth.”
- Global Comparison Conclusion: “As nations like Sweden showcase, combining equity with economic progress is achievable and necessary.”
π Analyzing Successes and Shortcomings
- π Key Achievements: Welfare policies in Nordic countries demonstrate the feasibility of reducing inequality without stifling growth.
- β οΈ Ongoing Challenges: Resistance from entrenched elites and uneven implementation in developing nations remain barriers.
- π Global Context: Countries with low Gini coefficients offer valuable lessons in equitable governance.
β¨ Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
- π Promote Progressive Taxation: Implement higher income and wealth taxes with robust enforcement mechanisms.
- π Global Cooperation: Work multilaterally to tackle tax evasion and establish equitable financial systems.
- π€ Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with businesses to foster inclusive growth and create opportunities for underprivileged communities.
π Sample Short Essays
βοΈ Balanced Perspective
“Wealth inequality poses systemic risks to society, but overregulation may dampen entrepreneurial spirit. Governments must pursue balanced policies to foster inclusive growth.”
π Solution-Oriented
“Redistributive taxation, targeted welfare, and digital tools offer practical pathways for reducing wealth inequality sustainably.”
π Global Comparison
“As seen in Nordic countries, inclusive policies and economic success are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.”