LNAT Practice Test Essay – Should governments prioritize the well-being of their citizens over economic growth? Discuss.

In the LawMint LNAT Practice Test Series for 2024 and 2025, there are 30 full length tests, with 360 passages – 1260 MCQs and 90 essay prompts or essay questions.

The essay below is a sample that can be written for the prompt:

Should governments prioritize the well-being of their citizens over economic growth? Discuss.

This LNAT essay question is included in LawMint LNAT Practice Test series.

While the model essays may include both sides of an argument, the question may require you to state your stance - either for or against; and support it with arguments.

Read our articles and watch the videos on our YouTube channel for guidance on how to structure and write the LNAT Essay.

Introduction

The primary responsibility of any government is to serve the interests and needs of its citizens. However, determining which priorities should take precedence in policymaking can be a complex and contentious issue. This essay will explore the question of whether governments should prioritize the well-being of their citizens over economic growth, discussing the implications of each approach and considering the potential for a balanced approach that addresses both priorities.

Well-being of Citizens

The well-being of citizens encompasses various aspects of their lives, including physical and mental health, education, social connections, and overall life satisfaction. By prioritizing citizen well-being, governments can ensure that policies are designed to address the diverse needs and interests of their populations, creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

Investing in healthcare, education, and social services can lead to improved quality of life for citizens, promoting both individual and societal well-being. For example, providing access to high-quality healthcare can improve overall health outcomes, reduce the burden of disease, and extend life expectancy. Similarly, investments in education can lead to a more skilled workforce, increased social mobility, and greater civic engagement.

Economic Growth

Economic growth, measured by the increase in a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is often viewed as a primary goal of governments due to its association with increased wealth, job creation, and improved living standards. Proponents of prioritizing economic growth argue that it can lead to a higher standard of living, increased investment in public services, and reduced poverty.

Additionally, economic growth can create opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness, contributing to the overall prosperity of a nation. A strong economy also allows governments to invest in infrastructure, social programs, and other public goods that can improve the well-being of citizens.

Balancing Priorities

While there are valid arguments for prioritizing both citizen well-being and economic growth, it is important to recognize that these two priorities are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they are often interdependent, as improvements in one area can lead to positive outcomes in the other.

For instance, investments in education and healthcare can contribute to a healthier, more skilled workforce, which in turn can boost economic productivity and growth. Conversely, a strong economy can provide the resources necessary for governments to invest in public services and social programs that directly benefit the well-being of citizens.

In light of these interdependencies, it may be more beneficial for governments to adopt a balanced approach that addresses both citizen well-being and economic growth, rather than prioritizing one over the other. This approach involves considering the potential long-term implications of policy decisions on both citizen well-being and economic growth, as well as evaluating the trade-offs and synergies between these priorities.

Some governments have started to explore alternative measures of national progress that encompass both well-being and economic growth, such as the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) and the Human Development Index (HDI). These metrics take into account factors such as income, education, health, and environmental sustainability, providing a more holistic view of a country’s progress and well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for prioritizing both the well-being of citizens and economic growth, a balanced approach that recognizes the interdependencies between these priorities may be the most effective strategy for promoting the overall prosperity and well-being of a nation. By considering both the short-term and long-term implications of policy decisions and adopting more holistic measures of national progress, governments can work towards creating a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable society that benefits all citizens.