Ielts Academic Writing Task 2 Sample 120

In some cultures, arranged marriages are still common practice, while in others, individuals have the freedom to choose their own partners. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of arranged marriages and give your opinion.

Arranged marriages, where families or intermediaries facilitate the union of two individuals, are still prevalent in some cultures, contrasting with societies where individuals have autonomy in selecting their life partners. Both approaches carry distinct advantages and disadvantages.

One advantage of arranged marriages is the emphasis on family compatibility and social cohesion. Families often consider factors such as socioeconomic status, education, and cultural background, aiming to ensure harmonious relationships and mutual support between spouses and extended families. Additionally, arranged marriages may provide a sense of security and stability, as families play a guiding role in the matchmaking process, offering advice and support to the couple.

However, arranged marriages also have drawbacks. Critics argue that they can infringe upon individual autonomy and personal preferences, as individuals may feel pressured or obligated to comply with familial expectations.

Additionally, compatibility issues or mismatched expectations between spouses may arise due to limited opportunities for communication and getting to know each other before marriage.

Moreover, concerns have been raised about the potential for coercion or exploitation, particularly in cases where one party has significantly more power or influence in the matchmaking process.

In my opinion, while arranged marriages may offer certain benefits in terms of family compatibility and support, they should not override individual agency and consent. Marriage is a deeply personal decision that should be based on mutual respect, love, and compatibility between partners.

Therefore, I believe that individuals should have the freedom to choose their own partners, with families playing a supportive rather than dictatorial role in the process.

Ultimately, fostering open communication, mutual understanding, and respect within families and communities can facilitate healthy and fulfilling relationships, whether arranged or chosen by individuals themselves.

Note: This is a sample answer, and there can be many other views and sentences used to write the answer.