IELTS Essay # 9 - Some people believe that happiness is directly related to economic success, while others argue that happiness depends on other factors. Discuss both viewpoints and state your view.

Essay # 9

Some people believe that happiness is directly related to economic success, while others argue that happiness depends on other factors. Discuss both viewpoints and state your view.

Happiness is a relative term. In other words, it means different things to different people. Although there are many who associate happiness with wealth, there are some others who believe that other non-monetary factors can also give happiness.

It cannot be denied that money plays an important role in people's lives, even more so in today's times. Money is essential for all the basic necessities, without which one cannot survive. However, a person able to fulfil all these requirements quite easily, along with some more to spare for a little luxury in life will consider himself happy. A big house, fancy car, flashy jewelry have become almost as important to have, as the basic needs of life. It goes without saying, therefore, that happiness is closely related to economic success.

On the contrary, having loads of money can sometimes not bring peace to mind. “The fear of theft doesn’t let the rich man sleep” is quite an apt proverb to explain this point. Money brings along with it, greed and enmity. A well-knit family, hearty social relationships, good health and an overall feeling of gratification and well-being are some factors that probably prove to be more essential than being rich, or striving for affluence in life. Fulfilment of all material desires alone doesn't guarantee happiness always.

A summary of the above discussed points clearly indicates that money is essential to satisfy human needs, without which happiness cannot be attained. However, opulence alone does not ensure a harmonious life. A sense of contentment might prove superior here as the path towards happiness.

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