Some experts believe that when a country is already rich, any additional increase in economic wealth does not make its citizens any more satisfied. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

There are three ways to answer this question:

1) 100% agree

2) 100% disagree

3) Partially agree

100% AGREE – Additional wealth doesn't bring more satisfaction

Sample answer 1

Whether economic growth continues to increase citizens’ happiness in wealthy nations is a matter of considerable debate. While wealth is important for achieving a decent standard of living, I completely agree with the view that once the basic needs of a population are fulfilled, additional financial expansion does not significantly enhance their level of satisfaction

To commence, in high-income countries, citizens already enjoy access to necessities such as healthcare, education, and housing. The main reason further economic growth becomes less effective is due to the principle of diminishing returns (a decrease in benefit with each additional unit). Once people reach a comfortable lifestyle, their happiness no longer increases in proportion to their income. Social comparison often replaces gratitude, leading to discontentment (a feeling of dissatisfaction) and reduced life satisfaction. Furthermore, at this stage, individuals begin to prioritise self-actualisation (the process of fulfilling one’s potential) over material gains, which money alone cannot provide. In Scandinavian nations, for instance, governments invest more in work-life balance than in GDP growth, yet these countries rank highest on happiness indexes.

Another worth considering reason is, constantly pursuing wealth in already affluent (wealthy) societies can generate harmful outcomes. Burnout (emotional and physical exhaustion), overwork, and strained relationships are commonly reported among professionals who measure success solely by income. Citizens may also suffer from alienation (a sense of isolation from society) and anxiety, particularly in urban environments. If governments focus exclusively on GDP, they risk overlooking other dimensions of development, such as equity (fair access to resources), community support, and mental health infrastructure (systems that support psychological well-being). These are far more influential in shaping public contentment (satisfaction) than rising incomes.

In conclusion, although financial growth is important for national development, it does not guarantee long-term happiness provided that essential living standards are already met. Governments should prioritise well-rounded (balanced and comprehensive) policies that nurture human connection, equity, and mental well-being over continuous wealth accumulation.

100% DISAGREE – More wealth always increases satisfaction

Sample answer 2

Whether increasing economic prosperity (the state of being successful, especially economically)in already developed nations brings further satisfaction remains a topic of global interest. While emotional and social factors are undeniably important, I completely disagree with the notion that wealth loses value after a certain point, and believe that financial growth continues to contribute meaningfully to national progress and individual well-being.

To commence, further economic development enables governments to fund innovation, strengthen public services, and reduce inequality. The main reason economic expansion remains relevant is that not all citizens in wealthy nations experience equal access to opportunity. Even in developed countries, marginalised (excluded or disadvantaged) groups often lack proper education, housing, or digital access. Economic growth allows for increased investment in infrastructure (public systems and facilities), affordable healthcare, and technological advancement. For example, in countries like Germany and South Korea, continued growth has led to improvements in sustainable transport, digital education, and universal healthcare, improving quality of life across income levels.

Another worth considering reason is, personal financial growth provides individuals with greater autonomy (freedom to make their own decisions), flexibility, and improved life satisfaction. Citizens are more likely to feel empowered when they can afford better housing, invest in personal development, or support their families. Increased income offers a buffer against uncertainty and enhances emotional security. Without ongoing economic progress, people may feel stuck or demotivated, particularly younger generations who face volatile (unpredictable or unstable) job markets. Therefore, maintaining a trajectory (a path or direction of development) of financial development is essential for achieving holistic (comprehensive and balanced) growth.

In conclusion, although social well-being is essential, economic advancement remains a cornerstone (an important quality) of national and personal fulfilment, provided that growth is managed with inclusivity and long-term planning. Until governments find reliable non-financial ways to uplift their citizens, economic expansion should not be undervalued.

PARTIALLY AGREE (50-50) – Wealth helps, but only to a point

Sample answer 3

Whether citizens of AFFLUENT (wealthy) nations continue to benefit from further economic growth remains a complex issue. While financial progress plays an essential role in supporting national development and individual welfare, I partially agree with the given view and believe that its influence on overall happiness weakens once basic living standards are achieved.

To commence, continued economic growth in developed countries is necessary to maintain and upgrade national services. The main reason wealth remains important is that even affluent nations face evolving challenges, such as ageing populations, environmental degradation, and digital inequality. Financial resources allow for long-term investment in INFRASTRUCTURE (core systems like transport and healthcare), Sustainability (ability to maintain balance long-term) programmes, and educational REFORM(improvement or change for the better). In countries like Japan and Canada, such investments have led to the implementation of green technology and remote healthcare systems, improving quality of life across regions. Thus, economic RESILIENCE (ability to recover from crises) becomes critical during events like pandemics or global recessions.

However, beyond a certain threshold, money contributes less to EMOTIONAL FULFILMENT (deep satisfaction with life). Individuals begin to prioritise relationships, purpose, and psychological stability over material possessions. In many high-income societies, increased income has been linked to BURNOUT (exhaustion due to prolonged stress), loneliness, and ALIENATION (a sense of disconnection from others). Therefore, HOLISTIC (comprehensive and balanced) well-being requires more than GDP growth. Governments should also invest in SOCIAL COHESION (a sense of unity and trust among citizens), equitable access, and mental health initiatives to ensure that progress is meaningful for all.

In conclusion, although financial expansion continues to benefit developed nations, its influence on citizen happiness becomes limited provided that material needs are already met. Until policies evolve to address emotional and social needs, true national progress will remain incomplete.

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