新gre作文:GRE作文范文大全(81)
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in dealing more effectively with our enduring social problems. History teaches us, for example,
that it is a mistake to attempt to legislate morality, because humans by nature resist having
their moral choices forced upon them. History also teaches us that our major social ills are
here to stay, because they spring from human nature. For instance, crime and violence have
troubled almost every society; all manner of reform, prevention, and punishment have been
tried with only partial success. Today, the trend appears to be away from reform toward a
"tough-on-crime" approach, to no avail.
However beneficial it might be to appreciate the unchanging nature of humankind, it is
equally beneficial to understand and appreciate significant differences between peoples of
different time periods----in terms of cultural mores, customs, values, and ideals. For example,
the ways in which societies have treated women, ethnic minorities, animals, and the
environment have confin, mlly evolved over the course of human history. Society's attitudes
toward artistic expression, literature, and scientific and intellectual inquiry are also in a
continual state of evolution. And, perhaps the most significant sort of cultural evolution involves
spiritual beliefs, which have always spun themselves out, albeit uneasily, through clashes
between established traditions and more enlightened viewpoints. A heightened awareness of
all these aspects of cultural evolution help us formulate informed, reflective, and enlightened
values and ideals for ourselves; and our society dearly benefits as a result.
Another problem with the statement is that it undervalues other, equally important benefits of
studying history. Learnmgabout the courage and tenacity of history's great explorers, leaders,
and other achievers inspires us to similar accomplishments, or at least to face own fears as we
travel through life. Learning about the mistakes of past societies helps us avoid repeating them.
For instance, the world is slowly coming to learn by studying history that political states whose
authority stems from suppression of individual freedoms invariably fall of their own oppressive
weight. And, learning about one's cultural heritage, or roots, fosters a healthy sense of self and
cultivates an interest in preserving art, literature, and other cultural artifacts--all of which serve
to enrich society. 感谢您阅读《GRE作文范文大全(81) 》一文,出国留学网(liuxue86.com)编辑部希望本文能帮助到您。
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