104. “The value of any nation should be measured more by its scientific and artistic achievements than by its business successes.”
Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the opinion stated above. Support your views with reasons and/or examples from your own experience, observations, or reading.
It is tempting to concede the speaker’s opinion that achievements in art and science are more significant to the worth of a nation than its “mere” business successes. Still, I disagree with the view because it overlooks the several ways that commercial success supports artistic accomplishment and scientific progress. It also ignores the extent to which commercial success renders a nation more secure, and better able to promote human rights and political stability throughout the world.
First of all, art and science have always depended upon the patronage of successful business. Consider Italy’s powerful banking clan, the Medici family, and their support for artists such as Michelangelo and Raphael. Substantial scientific and artistic support now comes from foundations established by extraordinarily successful business families like the Rockefellers, Gettys, Carnegies and Mellons. In addition to their private-sector foundation funding, successful businesses also pay taxes that are returned to university art and science programs. And, many businesses form partnerships with universities to further scientific discovery and related technological progress. Finally, both art and science are highly successful business enterprises in their own right.
Secondly, the value of a nation is related to its ability to defend itself, and to help promote peace and justice among other nations. A nation is more capable in both regards when its businesses enjoy greater success. For example, the current return of Kosovars to their homeland was facilitated by a cost-intensive military effort that required funding from, among other sources, tax revenues from business. In addition, a wealthy nation can, by means of its trade agreements, use its economic strength to encourage other countries to extend greater human rights to their citizens. Finally, a wealthy nation can depend on an expansive weapons industry in the private sector; and it can fund an effective military to carry out national defense.
In sum, it is simplistic to suppose that achievement in art and science is more important to the value of a nation than the success of its businesses. The latter is essential to national and world security. And, business success is deeply connected to accomplishment in art and science.
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发表于 2010-1-19 23:43:46
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