3. To what extent should governments be responsible for population problems?

Stand: Governments should largely be responsible for population problems. TS1 (+): As the single largest authority and power with the ability to effect change legally and nationally, the government can implement policies to alleviate the problem of underpopulation and ageing population. TS2(-): However, the ability to effect change is limited by the choices of the citizens. TS3(+): That being said, the roles of governments include maintaining social stability in their country and if population problems (overpopulation) were to disrupt the peace in a country, the government is obliged to step in to alleviate or eradicate those problems even if their ability is limited. TS4(+): A vibrant economy is also of extreme importance to a country and if the problem of an ageing population were to curb economic growth, it is in the interest of the government to tackle the problem so as to serve its role as the guardian of economic stability. TS5(+): Furthermore, the problems, if left unsolved, would bring about severe consequences for the government due to the displeasure of the citizens.

2. To what extent should governments be responsible for population problems? Alternative Stand: Governments are responsible only to a small extent. *Rather, it is the people who are truly responsible both for causing and solving population problems. TS1: (-) Undeniably, some population problems are a result of governments’ actions, rendering them responsible. TS2: (-) It may also be argued that governments should be responsible for the management of these problems because it is in their interests to do so. TS3: (-) After all, they have a moral obligation to take care of their citizens. They have, to this end, actively implemented policies. TS4: (+) However, government actions are limited by the actions of the people, thus transferring responsibility to them. TS5: (+) Despite the governments’ efforts to address the problems, it cannot be denied that people’s changing concepts of family are the main reason why population problems continue to persist. Note that all topic sentences engage the topical words, ‘governments’ (underlined). Don’t merely say “Citizens are also responsible.” (The word ‘Citizens’ is not a topical word in the question. Engaging the topical words is necessary for TWE/How far/how important questions.