TỰ LUẬN BAS

Issue 1. Democracy is a Western concept, generally understood as the power or the rule
of the people. When the US Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to
abortion, reversing Roe v. Wade, an article in the Guardian called the ruling “a mockery
of democracy”.
Write an essay of about 400 words to discuss the issue. Your answer should make clear
what the decision means, whether you think it is undemocratic and why/why not, and
how Americans can exercise democracy in this matter within the social and political
reality of the US.

The recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade has ignited a fierce debate
about democracy in the United States. By reversing the constitutional right to abortion,
the Court has effectively returned the power to regulate abortion to individual states, a
move that many view as undemocratic and a violation of women's rights.

In the United States, democracy is often defined as "government of the people, by the
people, and for the people." This principle suggests that the will of the people should be
reflected in government policies. However, the Supreme Court, as the highest judicial
body, is not directly elected by the people. This inherent characteristic of the judicial
branch has led to criticisms that its decisions, while legally sound, may not always align
with public opinion.

The overturning of Roe v. Wade has exacerbated these concerns. Public opinion polls
consistently indicate that a majority of Americans support access to safe and legal
abortion. Despite this, the Court, composed of unelected justices, has effectively
restricted access to abortion for millions of women. This has led to accusations that the
decision is undemocratic and disregards the will of the people.

Furthermore, the decision has sparked concerns about the erosion of individual liberties.
Critics argue that the Court's decision sets a dangerous precedent, allowing the
government to restrict other fundamental rights, such as access to contraception or same-
sex marriage.
While supporters of the decision argue that it returns the power to regulate abortion to the
states, allowing for a more democratic process, many believe that this approach
disenfranchises women in states where abortion rights are now severely limited.

Despite these challenges, the principles of democracy provide avenues for citizens to
engage and influence policy. Individuals can participate in grassroots movements, join
advocacy groups, and engage in community outreach to raise awareness about
reproductive rights. Staying informed about legislative proposals and engaging in
political discourse are crucial for ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in the
ongoing debate surrounding abortion rights.

In conclusion, the overturning of Roe v. Wade has ignited a critical conversation about
the role of the courts in a democracy and the importance of upholding individual rights.
While the decision raises concerns about the democratic process, it also underscores the
importance of active citizen engagement in shaping public policy and ensuring that the
voices of all Americans are heard.

Issue 2. What were the main economic arguments for Brexit? Are these arguments
supported by evidence? Write an essay of about 400 words to answer these questions.
Reference the relevant economic outcomes of Brexit when possible.
1. Introduction
- Briefly introduce Brexit.

- Outline the three key arguments for Brexit: Membership Fee, Trade, and
Immigration.

2. Membership Fee
The first reason people supported Brexit was to save a lot of money from membership
fees.
- Argument: Leaving the EU would lead to immediate cost savings for the
UK, redirecting funds to domestic priorities.

- Evidence: House of Commons indicated that the UK's higher contributions

to the EU than received benefits from 1975 to 2020.

- Outcome: The UK government has more control over how funds are
allocated post-Brexit: spend on economic development or welfare services.
 3. Trade
Another argument for Brexit was to have more freedom in making trade deals.
- Argument: Brexit would grant the UK autonomy in trade deals, allowing for
independent agreements.
- Evidence: Comparison of export and import statistics between UK-EU and
UK-non-EU trade from 2010 to 2019: the UK traded more with non-EU
countries than with countries within the EU.
=> people think that the UK could do better in trade with other countries if
it leaves the EU.

- Outcome: still being observed

4. Immigration
One more argument for Brexit was related to immigration.
- Argument: Lots of people from Europe came to work in the UK, which
made it harder for British people to find jobs.
- Evidence: In 2015, the UK received 333,000 new people from the EU,
45% of which coming for definite jobs.

- There were also worries about how many people were using public services
like hospitals and schools.

5. Conclusion
- Summarize the main economic arguments for Brexit: Membership Fee,
Trade, and Immigration.
- Reflect on the evidence presented and post-Brexit economic outcomes:
there is still a need for continuous evaluation.

The 2016 Brexit referendum saw the UK vote to leave the European Union, driven
by a range of economic arguments.
One key argument centered around the substantial membership fees paid to the
EU. Proponents argued that leaving would free up significant funds, allowing the
UK to redirect these resources towards domestic priorities such as healthcare,
education, and infrastructure. This argument was supported by evidence
suggesting that the UK had contributed more to the EU budget than it received in
benefits over a considerable period.

A second major argument focused on the perceived constraints of EU membership

on trade. Proponents believed that leaving the EU would grant the UK greater
autonomy in negotiating trade deals with countries worldwide. This argument was
supported by the observation that the UK already traded more with non-EU
countries than with EU member states. It was hypothesized that, free from the
constraints of EU regulations, the UK could forge more beneficial trade
agreements, boosting economic growth.

A third key economic argument for Brexit concerned immigration. Concerns were
raised about the impact of high levels of immigration from EU countries on the
UK labor market, with some arguing that it negatively impacted job opportunities
for British citizens. Data from 2015 showed a significant influx of EU citizens, a
considerable proportion of whom entered the UK for employment purposes.
Concerns were also raised about the potential strain on public services such as
healthcare and education due to increased demand.

While these arguments provided a compelling case for leaving the EU, the long-
term economic consequences of Brexit remain a subject of ongoing debate. While
the UK now has greater control over its trade policy and immigration, the
economic impact of leaving the EU has been complex and multifaceted. Trade
disruptions, supply chain issues, and economic uncertainty have presented
challenges.

In conclusion, the economic arguments for Brexit centered around the potential
benefits of reduced membership fees, greater trade autonomy, and controlled
immigration. However, the actual economic outcomes of Brexit are still unfolding,
and the long-term impact remains to be seen. A comprehensive evaluation requires
ongoing analysis and consideration of various economic indicators.

Issue 3. A recent study* suggested that Brexit voters were more motivated by identity
than economics. Specifically, individuals with stronger British identity are more
supportive of Leave. In addition, those who claim to be British only are less pro-Leave
than those who see themselves as English only or British and English.
Write an essay of about 400 words to discuss this issue. Your answer should summarize
the voting pattern of the different regions of the UK and its aftermath, and explain why
identity may help explain this voting pattern.
* See the study (full text available) at
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1468-4446.12790?af=R
 I. Introduction
a. Introduction to the study and its finding
b. Brief overview of the Brexit referendum and its impact
c. Thesis statement: Identity played a more significant role in shaping
Brexit voting patterns than economic considerations

II. Voting Patterns in different UK regions

a. Regional differences in support for Leave and
Remain Referendum result
England Wale Scotlan Northern
d Ireland
Leave: 53.4% Leave: Leave: 38% Leave: 44.2%
52.5%
Remain: 43.6% Remain: 62% Remain: 55.8
Remain:
47.5%

- England and Wales showed stronger support for leaving the EU.

- Scotland and Northern Ireland leaned more towards remaining.

- Urban areas, such as London, were more inclined towards Remain

b. Impact on political landscape and calls for independence in Scotland

and Northern Ireland

- Trigger renewed calls for independence in Scotland. (Desire to

maintain ties with EU)
- Intensify discussions about the constitutional future of Northern Ireland.
(Concerns about the border with the Republic of Ireland and the potential
impact on the peace process)

III. The Aftermath of the Brexit Referendum

- The juxtaposition of British identity with specific national identities,
such as English or Scottish, has become a crucial determinant of Brexit
support.
a. Increased salience of national identity, especially in Scotland and
 Northern Ireland

b. Influence on discussions about sovereignty, immigration, and cultural

heritage

IV. The Role of Identity in Voting Pattern

a. What is identity?
- Those identifying solely as British are generally less inclined towards Leave.
- Those who see themselves as English only or embrace a dual British
and English identity are more inclined towards Leave.
b. The referendum became a platform to assert people’s national identity,
reflecting a desire for autonomy and self-determination
- Economic aspects: While also important, took a back seat to the deeply
ingrained sense of identity

V. Conclusion
a. Recap of the complex interplay between regional and national identities
in Brexit voting
b. Importance of understanding identity's role in political attitudes for
post-Brexit dialogue and societal cohesion

The 2016 Brexit referendum witnessed a deeply divided nation, with Leave securing a
narrow victory. While economic arguments like reduced membership fees, increased
trade autonomy, and controlled immigration played a role, evidence suggests that
national identity played a more significant role in shaping voting patterns.

Regional disparities in voting patterns were stark. England and Wales, with stronger
Leave votes, generally exhibited a stronger sense of English national identity.
Conversely, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with higher Remain votes, possess distinct
national identities and closer cultural ties to the EU. This regional divide reflects the
complex interplay between British identity and other national identities within the UK.

The Brexit vote significantly impacted the political landscape, reigniting calls for Scottish
independence. The desire to maintain close ties with the EU, which Scotland strongly
favored, fueled the independence movement. Similarly, the referendum intensified
discussions about the constitutional future of Northern Ireland, raising concerns about the
impact on the peace process and the delicate balance of power within the region.

The referendum itself became a platform for individuals to assert their national identities.
Those who identified solely as British were generally more inclined to Remain, while
those who strongly identified as English or embraced a dual British and English identity
were more likely to vote Leave. This suggests that the referendum tapped into deep-
seated anxieties about national identity and a desire for greater autonomy and self-
determination.

While economic considerations undoubtedly played a role, the strong correlation between
national identity and voting patterns suggests that identity concerns were a primary driver
of the Brexit vote. This highlights the importance of understanding the complex interplay
between national, regional, and British identities in navigating the post-Brexit landscape.
Recognizing the significance of these identity-based divisions is crucial for fostering
meaningful dialogue and promoting societal cohesion within the UK.

Issue 4. The documentary ‘Waiting for Superman’ suggests that public schools in the US
are failing and that charter schools are a better alternative than traditional public schools.
Write an essay of about 400 words to discuss this issue. Your answer should articulate
how you agree or disagree with the argument. It should distinguish charter schools and
traditional public schools, summarize the achievements and problems of charter schools,
and discuss the impact of expanding charter schools on the existing public school system.
Use specific examples and evidence to support your answer.

The documentary "Waiting for Superman" presents a critical view of the American public
education system, arguing that traditional public schools are failing to adequately serve
many students. While the film offers a compelling critique of the current system, its
advocacy for charter schools as a panacea for all educational ills requires nuanced
consideration.

Traditional public schools in the US face numerous challenges. Large class sizes, teacher
shortages, and bureaucratic hurdles can hinder effective instruction. The documentary
highlights concerns about teacher quality, particularly the difficulties in removing
underperforming educators. Furthermore, the film argues that the rigid structure of
traditional schools, with their emphasis on standardized testing and tracking systems, can
stifle student creativity and hinder individual learning.

Charter schools, with their greater autonomy and flexibility, offer a potential alternative.
These independently operated schools often boast smaller class sizes, allowing for more
individualized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships. They also have the
flexibility to implement innovative teaching methods and curriculum designs, such as
STEM programs or project-based learning, which can cater to diverse learning styles.

However, the film's uncritical praise for charter schools overlooks potential drawbacks.
High teacher turnover rates in some charter schools can disrupt student learning and
hinder the development of strong teacher-student relationships. Moreover, the expansion
of charter schools can drain resources from traditional public schools, potentially
exacerbating existing inequalities. Furthermore, the focus on charter schools may
inadvertently divert attention from the need to address systemic issues within the
traditional public school system, such as inadequate funding, inequitable resource
distribution, and the need for comprehensive teacher training and support.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the future of education in the US is complex. While
charter schools offer a potential solution for some students, they are not a silver bullet. A
balanced approach is needed that addresses the challenges facing traditional public
schools while ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education, regardless
of their background or zip code.

Issue 5. What does the movie All or Nothing (2002) allow you to see about the struggles
of ‘the working class’ in the UK in the early 2000s? What does the movie suggest as the
redeeming characteristic in their life? Write an essay of about 400 words to address the
question. Your answer should attend to their economic and domestic conditions and one
aspect of material culture. It should additionally address the overall theme of the movie.
Use specific examples and evidence to support your answer.
"All or Nothing" offers a poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by working-class
individuals in early 2000s London. The film centers around Phil, a minicab driver
battling to make ends meet amidst fierce competition and unpredictable income. His life
is a constant struggle, juggling bills, providing for his family, and navigating the anxieties
of financial insecurity. This economic precarity is echoed throughout the film, as
characters like Maureen, a supermarket cashier, and Samantha, a young woman searching
for stable employment, grapple with similar challenges.

The film also delves into the domestic struggles of these characters, depicting strained
relationships, alcoholism, and the pervasive sense of loneliness that can accompany
poverty. Phil's marriage faces strain due to his long working hours and the constant
financial pressure. Carol, his wife, grapples with alcoholism, seeking solace in fleeting
connections. These personal struggles are intertwined with the broader social and
economic realities, highlighting how poverty can deeply impact individual lives and
family dynamics.

One significant aspect of material culture explored in the film is the role of television. For
many characters, television offers a temporary escape, a distraction from the harsh
realities of their daily lives. However, this escape is often bittersweet. The constant
bombardment of advertisements and depictions of wealth and luxury on television can
serve as a stark reminder of their own limited opportunities and social exclusion. This
constant exposure can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and further exacerbate the
anxieties associated with their socioeconomic situation.

Despite the bleakness of their circumstances, the film emphasizes the enduring strength
of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. Despite his own struggles,
Phil displays acts of kindness and compassion towards his passengers, offering a listening
ear and a moment of human connection in their often-solitary lives. These small acts of
kindness, along with the support of family and limited community networks, provide
glimmers of hope amidst the adversity.

"All or Nothing" serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by many

working-class individuals. It provides a nuanced and insightful look at their daily
struggles, their resilience, and the enduring power of human connection in the face of
adversity. The film highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing the social
and economic inequalities that continue to impact the lives of many in our society.

Issue 6. Boyhood (2014) has been described as a portrait of a ‘normal’ or ‘ordinary’

American family. In which way the family portrayed here is ‘normal’ and in which way
is it not? Write an essay of about 400 words to discuss the issue. Your answer should rely
on an understanding of being ‘normal’ in an American context and specific examples to
demonstrate how the phenomenon of attention is normal or not.
"Boyhood" offers a captivating glimpse into the complexities of a seemingly "normal"
American family. While it depicts familiar milestones – school, friends, family dinners –
the film reveals that "normal" is far from simple. Mason's single-parent household,
experiencing divorce and financial instability, reflects the challenges faced by many
families today. Olivia, Mason's mother, juggles work, education, and raising two
children, showcasing the realities of single parenthood and the financial pressures that
can strain even the most loving families.

The film also subtly portrays how societal changes impact family life. Technological
advancements, from early video games to the ubiquitous presence of smartphones, shape
Mason's childhood and the family's interactions. These shifts, while "normal" for his
generation, also present new challenges and complexities, such as the constant
connectivity and the potential for distraction.

Furthermore, "Boyhood" challenges idealized notions of family. It acknowledges that

families are messy, that relationships evolve, and that life rarely follows a predictable
script. We witness the emotional impact of divorce on the children, the complexities of
blended families, and the challenges of navigating changing family dynamics.

Despite these challenges, the film also highlights the resilience and enduring power of
human connection. Through shared experiences, laughter, and moments of shared joy, the
family members find strength in each other. The film underscores the importance of love,
support, and the enduring bonds of family, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, "Boyhood" offers a poignant and honest portrayal of family life, moving
beyond idealized notions of "normal" to depict the complexities and challenges faced by
many families today. It serves as a powerful reminder that family life is a journey filled
with both joy and hardship, and that resilience, love, and the enduring power of human
connection are essential for navigating the ever-changing landscape of family dynamics.