大学の文系学位は現代世界での重要性を喪失したか

Has a university degree in the humanities lost its relevance in today’s world?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, a university degree in the humanities still has its relevance in our world today. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, globalization has diminished the significance of national borders. Then, it is essential to learn some foreign languages to communicate effectively with people from diverse countries. Similarly, studying history and religion can help us gain a better understanding of different cultures.

Next, we appreciate the advancements in technology and engineering, such as in PCs and smartphones. So, developing discernment in the humanities, including art, literature, and music, allows us to create beautiful art, impressive music, interesting stories, and entertaining videos on our smartphones.

In addition, some might argue that science is a more lucrative field than the humanities. For example, engineers and scientists earn more than history teachers in general. However, I believe that the humanities still benefit those in technical fields. It is because creativity is essential for discovering innovative solutions to problems and developing desirable products and services.

In conclusion, I am convinced that studying humanities is still essential for maintaining and developing our society based on the reasons mentioned above. (202 words)

日本は対米関係を見直すべきか

Should Japan rethink its relationship with the United States?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, Japan do not need to rethink its relationship with the US for now. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, Japan and the US have a long-standing military partnership that has helped maintain peace and security in the East Asia. This alliance is especially important in light of, for example, recent missile launches from North Korea.

Next, Japan is one of the largest importers of US-grown agricultural products. Moreover, a significant portion of Japan’s wealth has been generated through exporting automobiles and electronics to the US. As this trade has been mutually beneficial for both countries, it is crucial, especially for Japan, to preserve this framework.

In addition, some might argue that fostering amicable relations with any nation is always advantageous. However, the current power dynamics in Asia are intricate. Any alteration in foreign policy could disrupt the current situation. Thus, Japan should maintain its current foreign policy, at least for the time being.

In conclusion, I am convinced that Japan should maintain the current foreign policy, including its relations with the US based on the reasons mentioned above. (200 words)

先進国は移民流入を促進すべきか

Should developed nations encourage immigration from other countries?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, developed nations should encourage immigration from other countries. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, immigration can help alleviate labor shortages, especially difficulties in primary industries due to an aging workforce. In addition, labor shortages can stagnate economies, resulting in reduced tax revenues and the collapse of social systems. For this reason, many developed countries have already understood the need for immigration policy change and have taken steps to ease entry requirements.

Next, immigration is also a humanitarian policy. In times of war, political persecution, or natural disasters, there can be terrible human suffering. In such cases, developed countries can aid in a variety of ways, one of which is through immigration.

In addition, some might argue that encouraging more immigration can result in cultural conflicts and increases crime. However, this may be a rather traditional, prejudice-based view. Studies in the US have shown that immigrants tend to commit rather less serious crimes for the fear of deportation.

In conclusion, I am convinced that foreign immigration should be encouraged in developed nations based on the reasons mentioned above. (200 words)

言論の自由を制限することは可能か

Can restrictions on freedom of speech ever be justified?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, restrictions on speech are justified only under limited conditions. I hold this view for mainly three reason

First, certain types of speech, such as hate speech, should not be permitted even in the name of free speech. This is because one person’s speech should not infringe on another person’s freedom of speech, as freedom of speech is a right for all individuals.

Next, violent speech and slander against private individuals can promote anarchy through free speech. This destabilizes the current democratic social system, making it illogical to guarantee these freedoms of speech through the Constitution.

In addition, some might argue that freedom of speech should be kept firmly, which also makes sense. To guarantee free speech, limitations on free speech should be minimal, and the Constitution should be the basis for determining the validity of such limitations, with the courts, not the government, making the final decision. The government must respect people’s right to express themselves without censorship.

In conclusion, I am convinced that freedom of speech is a vital human right but can be restricted in certain cases, based on the reasons mentioned above. (203 words)

日本の死刑制度は廃止せらるべきか

Should the death penalty be banned in Japan?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, the death penalty should be banned in Japan as soon as possible. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, many people today believe that the death penalty is an archaic and cruel form of punishment. That is why the UN has repeatedly passed resolutions calling for its abolition. In recent years, more and more countries have abolished the death penalty, which is a positive outcome.

Next, the death sentence may be erroneous in some cases. There have been numerous cases in Japan where people have been wrongly convicted of serious crimes. That is why the current judicial system allows for retrials. However, the death penalty can make them almost meaningless.

In addition, some might argue that the death penalty helps reduce serious crimes, but statistics have shown that there is no significant difference in the murder rate before and after its abolition. Proponents have been searching for evidence to support their argument in vain though.

In conclusion, I am convinced that we should make efforts to ban the death penalty in the country based on the reasons mentioned above. (202 words)

民主主義国は非民主主義国を啓蒙すべきか

Should democratic nations actively promote the spread of democracy to nondemocratic nations?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, democratic nations should rather refrain from spreading democracy hastily. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, democracy has had its own shortcomings. For example, it often falls into populism. Political leaders present fantastic goals and appeal to people, but once in power, they prioritize their popularity over enhancing the standard of living for the people. This outcome is unacceptable in our world today.

Next, imposing democracy on other countries is a dangerous approach. Studies have shown that there are only about 60 democracies in the world. Imposing democracy among these countries could harm trade and threaten their economies. It should be noted that China and Saudi Arabia, two of the most undemocratic countries, are also economic giants.

In addition, some might argue that countries should act against serious anti-democratic emergency, such as genocide or tribal conflicts. However, promoting democracy is not necessarily the answer. For such situations, the first step should be the remedy of human rights, in accordance with UN resolutions.

In conclusion, I am convinced that democratic nations should avoid pushing other nations toward democracy based on the reasons mentioned above. (204 words)

賛否を述べてください:世界平和は達成可能な目標である

Agree or disagree: World peace is an achievable goal

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, world peace is rather a remote goal, at least at this time. I hold this view for mainly three reasons.

First, violence has been used throughout history, to settle disputes and maintain stability in societies. As social beings, humans tend to form tribes, societies, and countries, and violence has been the initial method of protection against outsiders.

Next, advances in weapon technology are making the world a more dangerous place. Terrorist groups can cause significant harm and loss of life using automatic weapons, homemade bombs, and even hijacked airliners. The possibility of them acquiring a weapon of mass destruction is a grave concern.

In addition, some might argue that cooperation can help overcome violence. Admitting international cooperation has played an important role in promoting peace, our world is still full of diverse ideologies, religions, and political perspectives, and unfortunately, and violence has proven to be an effective means of achieving certain goals. Therefore, conflicts can easily arise due to fundamental differences in beliefs or policies.

In conclusion, I am convinced that achieving complete world peace is almost impossible based on the reasons mentioned above. (204 words)