Economic development has long been considered the cornerstone of national progress, as it leads to improvements in living standards, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. However, this growth often comes at the cost of traditional social values such as...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-08-01
This guide provides a deep analysis of the essay topic economic development vs. loss of social values, transforming a standard essay into a comprehensive resource with examiner insights and concrete examples to help you achieve a top grade.
Why this matters on the exam
This topic is a classic in English exams for VG1–VG3 because it tests your ability to handle a complex, abstract argument. It requires you to move beyond simple "for and against" lists and engage in nuanced discussion. An exam task might be phrased as: "‘Modern society has sold its soul for economic progress.’ To what extent do you agree with this statement? Discuss, using examples from at least two different societies." This requires you to define abstract concepts like 'soul' (social values, culture, well-being) and 'progress' (economic metrics) and build a structured, evidence-based argument. Another variation could be: "Discuss the claim that globalization primarily benefits wealthy nations at the cultural expense of developing ones." In the Norwegian curriculum (LK20), this topic directly engages with the core elements of "Democracy and Citizenship" and "Intercultural Competence," as it forces you to analyse power structures, different societal models, and the impact of global trends on local communities. Mastering this topic demonstrates critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a sophisticated command of English academic writing.
Core concepts explained
To write a high-scoring essay on this topic, you must understand and use key academic terms correctly. Using this vocabulary demonstrates analytical depth and precision. …