Question
When a country develops its technology, the traditional skills and ways of life die out. It is pointless
to try and keep them alive.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Answer
Throughout human history, technological innovations have caused a loss of traditional skills and
ways of life. This may seem like a cultural decline, but in fact it is just part of the natural evolution of
humanity. It is therefore not worth the effort of keeping them alive when there is no longer any
need for them.
People often feel sad when a new technology supplants an old one and a previous way of life or
particular skill is lost. Nowadays, computers are replacing almost everything, and it is speculated
that self-driving vehicles will replace taxis and trucks on the road. These occupations will be lost, and
those drivers will need to find new jobs. It seems unfair but it is part of the natural process. In one
hundred years, people will not look back at the loss of these things, but instead will be grateful of
the advancements that were made.
It is easier to look at these things with the objectivity that comes through the passage of time.
Nowadays, no one laments the loss of archaic farming techniques that were incredibly labor-
intensive because they were ultimately replaced by a succession of much more efficient devices that
have allowed humans to produce vastly more food than ever before. It allowed people to leave the
fields and adopt new skills, which in turn has helped our species to advance and created all kinds of
modern wonders that have improved our lives.
In conclusion, it is reasonable to feel a sense of loss for old skills and technologies, as well as the
ways of life that these supported, but in the grand scheme of things, it is better that humans move
forward with further technological innovations.
