In an era of rapid technological advancements, shifting demographics, and global interconnectedness, the future of societies is a topic of significant importance. This assignment aims to explore the potential challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for societies as they navigate through various social, economic, and environmental transformations. By analysing key factors and trends, we can gain insight into the possible trajectories societies may take and the implications they might have on individuals, communities, and nations. To that effect you are to discuss two topics in an esay no longer than 1,500 words.
1. Social Dynamics and Inequality:
a. How will societal attitudes and perceptions towards gender, race, and sexuality evolve, and what impact will this have on social cohesion and inclusivity?
b. What are the potential consequences of widening income inequality, and how can societies address this issue while ensuring fairness and social justice?
2. Demographic Shifts:
a. How will aging populations and declining birth rates affect social structures, healthcare systems, and intergenerational dynamics in societies?
b. What are the challenges and opportunities associated with increasing urbanisation, migration, and cultural diversity in societies?
About the essay:
The essay should be well-structured with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Support your arguments with evidence, examples and references.
Demonstrate critical thinking by exploring potential counterarguments or alternative viewpoints.
The essay should be between 1,200 and 1,500 words.
Recommended sources:
Harari, Y. N. (2019). Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind. Random House UK. (Original work published 2011)
Harari, Y. N. (2015). Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow. Harper Perennial.
Harari, Y. N. (2018). 21 Lessons For The 21St Century. Jonathan Cape.
Enriquez, J., & Gullans, S. (2016). Evolving ourselves : redesigning the future of humanity–one gene at a time. Current.
Priestley, T., & Williams, B. (2021). The Future Starts Now. Bloomsbury Publishing.
A good assignment will have:
Good links to concepts visited during the course (very important!)
Good quality of research and analysis
Clarity and coherence
Engagement with the reader
Reflective content and insights
Conduct comprehensive research on your chosen topic. Utilise authoritative sources, and make sure to cite all references properly.
To get a grade in the B range you should
Submit your work on time and in the right format
Answer the questions asked
Have a clear introduction and conclusion
Avoid digression, irrelevancy, and waffle
Include all the most important points
Organize your answers clearly and logically
Support generalizations with specific evidence
Show you have done and understood the relevant required reading
Show that you have paid attention in class and on field trips
Use precise language
Use correct grammar, syntax, spelling, punctuation
Present your work attractively
To get a grade in the A range, you should also
Show evidence of further reading or other research
Show originality of thought or unusual depth of insight
Surprise or inform me
Write with elegance and flair
You will get a grade in the C/D/F range if you:
Don’t do everything required to get a B
Use generic AI to write your assignment (yes, I can tell!)
Copy or plagiarise
