Question: It is important for the governments to provide money to things that are beautiful and not
just for things that are practical.
sample answer：
There is no doubt that modern technology has brought with it tremendous improvements in the way we
live. Accompanied with such improvements, however, are the changes in people’s attitudes and values
towards the world. One significant change is that people nowadays increasingly value things that are
material, practical and functional, rather than things that are beautiful, spiritual or purely aesthetical. I
think this is an unfortunate trend and that the government can reverse it by investing money in arts as
well as in the look of the city.
By spending money in the arts, such as subsidizing artists and financing art projects, the government is
creating a society full of vitality, creativity and free expression. Appreciation of art is one of the things
that makes life worthwhile. Humans do not need just shelter and food. Creative people have always
tried to look at things in a new way and to make the world a better place through painting, music,
poetry, calligraphy, sculpture, dance, and numerous other forms of expression. While art may not make
us immortal, it does make the world a richer place for future generations. Furthermore, access to the
arts also makes the young aware of their national heritage and helps to enhance their national identity
and thus patriotism.
Another area which is in urgent need of government funding is the improvement of a city’s look. City
construction in many countries is characterized by careless planning. When there is a conflict, beauty
always gives way to functionality. A typical example is many CBD(central business district) areas in
big cities. Often you see sky-rocketing buildings clustered in a densely populated area. Here, fresh air
and green space is a luxury. People seem to be used to this, but is this “cement forest”, with its
countless buildings and facilities that are by all means practical, really an advancement in human
civilization?
Therefore, I think that increased government funding for the arts, as well as for making our cities,
towns, and countryside more beautiful will inspire more people to spend more time enjoying nature and
remind us all to make use of and appreciate the priceless blessing of our beautiful land.
