日本の経済的成功に外資誘致が必要である

Is investment from foreign companies necessary for the success of Japan’s economy?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, inbound foreign investment has become crucial to Japan’s economy. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, studies have shown that recent foreign capitals generally have a greater economic impact than domestic ones due to their larger scale. Besides, capital tie-ups often involve technological cooperation. For example, Japanese automobile companies have already formed capital tie-ups with one of these countries and have successfully acquired significant research and development funds and technology.

Next, the Japanese economy is expected to decline steadily for years to come due to the decreasing and aging population. To maintain current economic strength and social systems, we need not only domestic human resources but also foreign investments. Many economists across the world suggest the same.

In addition, some might argue that Japan’s economy is still large enough that foreign investment is not necessary. However, refusing foreign investment would mean withdrawing from economic cooperation, which would have a negative impact on free trade and worsen international relations.

In conclusion, I am convinced that inbound foreign investment is necessary to Japan’s economic success today based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

賛否を述べてください:工業化は人類に概ね有益な結果をもたらした

Agree or disagree: Industrialization has had an overall beneficial effect on humankind.

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, industrialization has almost always benefited humans. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, industrialization has advanced technology in many fields and raised the standard of living for humankind. For example, use of fossil energy freed people from hard work, enabled the mass transportation of materials, leading to progress in trade. As a result, not only Europe but the entire world has benefited from industrialization.

Next, industrialization gave rise to the civic class and ended the status-based society. This made many nations democratized, allowing people to get an education and to use their talents. Learning is human instinct, and industrialization has greatly fulfilled it.

In addition, some might argue that industrialization has created poverty and has destroyed the environment. However, statistics have shown that many poor countries are improving their living standards. Also, advanced technology are discovering ways to restore the environment. Actually, industrialization in itself has been sophisticated over the years, so it would be a mistake to dismiss it as an absolute evil.

In conclusion, I am convinced that industrialization has benefited humans overall based on the reasons mentioned above. (202 words)

賛否を述べてください:人間社会は将来に亙って環境に負の影響を与える

Agree or disagree: Human societies will always have a negative effect on the environment

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, our society is beginning to change the environment for the better. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, since the beginning of industrialization, human society has caused irreparable damage to nature. However, throughout history, humans have also recognized the importance of maintaining the environment and have implemented practices such as afforestation, irrigation, and moderate hunting to regulate animal populations in order to sustain nature.

Next, recent studies have shed light on the reality of the biosphere. In the past, lack of human knowledge has disrupted the balance of ecosystems. But now, technology has been applied in various areas, such as monitoring overfishing, purifying water, and genetically modifying endangered species to restore them.

In addition, while some may disagree, we should not be pessimistic about the future. For example, the UN has set clear goals for restoring the environment. Every member state understands the importance of natural ecosystems and will work together to protect them.

In conclusion, I am convinced that human society will play an honorable role in the maintenance and restoration of the environment based on the reasons mentioned above. (202 words)

賛否を述べてください:遺伝子工学は将来社会に前向きな影響を与える

Agree or disagree: Genetic engineering will have a positive influence on society in the future.

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, genetic engineering, or GE, will have a positive influence in the future society. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, GE has helped to address the impending food shortage. With the world population expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, we must increase food production by about 70%. Therefore, we should utilize every available technology to alleviate this problem, and GE is among the most promising ones.

Next, GE has contributed to the development of medicine. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, rapid vaccine development based on GE has saved countless lives. It is undeniable that cutting-edge genetic engineering is responsible for these advancements. This technology is not only eliminating AIDS but is also expected to be applied to finding cures for cancer and hypertension.

In addition, some might have ethical concerns about this technology. However, solving hunger and disease through genetic engineering is undoubtedly ethical and aligns with the key challenges listed in the UN Sustainable Development goals.

In conclusion, I am convinced that GE will bring positive impact on our society based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

政府は技術投資への優先度を上げるべきか

Should investment in technology be a bigger priority for the government?


Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, the government should give greater priority to investment in this field. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, due to the aging population and globalization, we must increase our dependence on technology. On the other hand, Japan’s workforce is steadily declining at an alarming rate. Thus, no one can deny that the development of information technology and robotics is essential to maintain current social systems and services.

Next, technology is necessary to address the immense food shortage. As the world’s population expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, experts alert that a stable food supply is at stake. The government should take responsibility for food supply by improving agricultural technology, such as genetic engineering.

In addition, some might argue that private companies have already invested enough in relevant technology. However, public investment is necessary for long-term welfare. Especially the food issue is critical to the country, so it is dangerous for the government to leave it entirely to the market.

In conclusion, I am convinced that the government should give higher priority to technology based on the reasons mentioned above. (202 words)

現代世界において個人プライバシーは保護されうるか

Can individual privacy protected in the modern world?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, individual privacy does not seem to be fully protected in our world today. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, as technology advances, everyone and everything is increasingly connected online. Consequently, businesses and governments can access our personal information without our explicit consent. Moreover, tech giants such as Google and Microsoft openly track our online behavior and preferences to optimize their advertising.

Next, the recent COVID-19 pandemic has allowed governments enhanced monitoring for ‘public health’ reasons. For example, they have installed surveillance cameras every public space and developed smartphone apps to track people’s movements to contain the pandemic. However, these measures can also infringe on our privacy rights.

In addition, some might argue that privacy protection laws are in place. However, while people tend to use new services without sufficient knowledge of privacy protection, it takes time for laws to respond to new privacy violations. This is one of the reasons why it is so difficult to protect privacy today.

In conclusion, I am not convinced that our privacy is sufficiently protected in society based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

経済制裁は有用な外交手段か

Are economic sanctions a useful foreign-policy tool?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, economic sanctions can be a useful foreign-policy tool. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, economic sanctions are often preferable to military action for most cases. Throughout history, military conflicts have resulted in harm to innocent civilians and damage to infrastructure. Therefore, it is both ethical and practical to implement economic sanctions when diplomatic efforts have failed. This is why the UN frequently employs economic sanctions to achieve its objectives.

Next, economic sanctions can be imposed in various ways and can be utilized by smaller countries without superior military capabilities or a strong economy. For instance, an embargo on rare metal exports can be highly effective against any target country that depends on them.

In addition, some might argue that economic sanctions often fail. However, once the UN passes resolutions, member countries usually work together to achieve the desired results. In the globalized economy, few countries can survive without international trade. Therefore, economic sanctions can effectively prevent target countries from wrongdoing.

In conclusion, I am convinced that economic sanctions are useful diplomatic measures in our world today based on the reasons mentioned above. (204 words)

賛否を述べてください:グローバリゼーションは現代世界における前向きな力である

Agree or disagree: Globalization is a positive force in today’s world

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, globalization is almost always a positive force in our world today. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, globalization attracts foreign investment and improving infrastructure to many developing countries, which creates job opportunities. This, in turn, enhances people’s standard of living. This is why the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed “economic development in developing countries” as one of their key challenges.

Next, globalization promotes stability in world politics by preventing economic blocs, which has caused many international conflicts in the past, costing many lives and assets. Globalization, under appropriate rules, can facilitate economic development and help solve global problems, such as environmental destruction, across the world.

In addition, some might argue that developing countries need protection due to their lack of competitiveness. In fact, however, no country practices complete free trade. Globalization has various stages, and each country can make proper choices based on their current economic situations. Therefore, several nations should carefully avoid negative impacts from rapid globalization.

In conclusion, I am convinced that globalization is a positive force in most situations based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

賛否を述べてください:世界的人口爆発は将来の人類への深刻な脅威である

Agree or disagree: Global overpopulation is a serious threat to the future humankind

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, the overpopulation is a serious threat to the future generations. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, studies have shown that global population growth can lead to severe food shortages, and deplete natural resources, including fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas, at an alarming rate. This depletion will lead to conflicts among nations, particularly those with limited natural resources.

Next, high population density in urban areas increases the risk of infectious disease transmission. So far, about half of the world’s population lives in cities, which is increasing every year. Besides, the development of global transportation networks has increased the risk of an epidemic developing into a global pandemic.

In addition, some might argue that science and technology can overcome these crises. However, the population growth occurs mainly in developing countries. Even if advanced technology reaches a level sufficient to save humanity, it will require enormous investment and technology transfer to make it available to save all of us.

In conclusion, I am convinced that the world will be facing a serious threat due to the population explosion based on the reasons mentioned above. (207 words)

賛否を述べてください:アジア諸国との関係促進は日本政府の優先課題である

Agree or disagree: Improving relations with other Asian nations should be a priority for the Japanese government

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, Japan should not change its foreign policy for now. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, Japan is already a crucial part of various Asian regional frameworks, such as ASEAN and APEC, and has made efforts to solve many issues. Japan’s commitment has been acknowledged, so there is no need to worry about deteriorating relations with Asian countries anytime soon.

Next, any hasty effort to improve relations with Asian countries may arouse China’s suspicions. As we know, China aims to achieve economic dominance in all Asian countries through its ‘One Belt, One Road’ initiative. It is important to consider how China will interpret Japan’s shift towards strengthening relations with other Asian powers.

In addition, some might argue that promoting friendly relations with other countries is generally positive. However, the current balance of power in Asia is complex. Therefore, any changes in foreign policy could potentially upset the status quo. Japan should focus on maintaining the current framework.

In conclusion, I am convinced that Japan should maintain the status quo in its relations with the Asian nations based on the reasons mentioned above. (203 words)

再生可能エネルギーは化石燃料を代替しうるか

Can renewable energy sources replace fossil fuels?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, renewables can replace fossil fuels, though not completely. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, there is a growing global awareness of environmental protection. A prominent example is Greta Thunberg, a prominent environmental activist, who has gained international recognition and support for her environmental campaigns. And many business leaders and politicians are feeling pressure to increase the use of renewable energy.

Next, the world is already embracing renewables. Experts have developed detailed plans for a world powered by water, wind, and solar. We can already see solar panels and wind turbines in use all over. The technology for clean energy is already available. The challenge now is to make these sources more widely accessible.

In addition, some might argue that fossil fuels remain the most viable option. However, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have identified ‘spreading clean energy’ as one of the key challenges. As a result, member nations around the world are actively incorporating renewable sources into their operations.

In conclusion, I am convinced that renewables will replace fossil fuels in the future based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

宇宙探索はコストに見合うのか

Is space exploration worth the cost?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, space exploration is worth its cost. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, space development can contribute to peacekeeping efforts. For example, reconnaissance satellites can monitor military activities and prevent harm to civilians. While the cost of peace is difficult to calculate, no one can say it is a waste of resources.

Next, space exploration can help industrial progress by providing a unique environment for research, including zero gravity, low temperatures. Besides that, outer space has stronger light energy than on Earth’s surface, which can be used to create useful materials, food, and medicine, as well as power generation. Furthermore, as aerospace technology advances, it will become a promising destination for future tourists.

In addition, some might argue that the cost is exorbitant. However, technologies stem from space missions have also helped many people. For example, the technology for purifying water provides developing countries with access to clean water and aids in agriculture, potentially saving numerous lives across the world.

In conclusion, I am convinced that space missions are worth doing for the moment based on the reasons mentioned above. (201 words)

賛否を述べてください:感染症は今後10年の間にその脅威を増すのか

Agree or disagree: Infectious diseases will become a bigger problem in the coming decades

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, infectious diseases will become more serious issues over time. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, eliminating viruses is challenging, especially as new variants emerge. In the early 21st century, for example, SARS, avian flu, swine flu, and COVID-19 caused significant harm worldwide. To make matters worse, these viruses are becoming more drug-resistant, making them even more challenging to combat in the future.

Next, much of the population now lives in cities, where they are less exposed to bacteria and viruses on a daily basis due to advanced sterile conditions. Therefore, their bodies have lost the natural immunity to fight off diseases, which makes them susceptible to new infections.

In addition, some might argue that technology enables a rapid supply of vaccines. However, it’s important to note that vaccines alone do not prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases. Moreover, vaccines can be expensive, which means that infectious diseases that spread in poor countries pose a long-term threat to the entire world.

In conclusion, I am convinced that infectious diseases problems will get worse in the coming decades based on the reasons mentioned above. (203 words)

大量破壊兵器禁止は達成可能な目標か

Is a worldwide ban on weapons of mass destruction an attainable goal?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, banning weapons of mass destruction, or WMD, is rather a remote goal. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, tensions between the US and Russia seem to have increased since the Ukraine conflict. Both countries possess most of the world’s nuclear weapons as a deterrent, and neither wants to denuclearize because nuclear deterrence is part of their security strategy. They also oppose nuclear abolition.

Next, some rogue governments and terrorist groups seek WMDs, including chemical weapons to gain a presence in the international community. Even if an international agreement banning WMDs were to go into effect, terrorists would still ignore it. In the case of Syria, the government reportedly used chemical weapons against its own citizens.

In addition, some countries are suspected of attempting to develop WMDs. For example, despite criticism and sanctions, North Korea and Iran continue to pursue nuclear warheads. It is practically impossible to make them that do not follow the international order destroy their WMDs.

In conclusion, I am not convinced that banning WMD worldwide is an attainable goal based on the reasons mentioned above. (200 words)