After the collapse of the Soviet Union - as evidenced by ongoing struggle - life is still difficult for people in this region as Western ideals have become more and more normalized

Question

How do I argue that this statement is correct? It might not be, but this is a debate and this is the statement I need to prove. After the collapse of the Soviet Union - as evidenced by ongoing struggle - life is still difficult for people in this region as Western ideals have become more and more normalized

Answer 1

Debate really gives you a chance to get creative with your own thinking. Actually any evidence or point of view you can come up with to support this claim is valid - it’s up to you construct an argument you can feel good about making.

In this case, some points you could bring up:

1. Economic instability: After the collapse of the Soviet Union, many of the countries in the region faced economic instability due to the abrupt shift from a state-run economy to a market-driven one. This instability led to high rates of poverty, unemployment, and social inequality, making life difficult for many people in the region.
2. Political instability: The collapse of the Soviet Union also led to political instability in the region, as many newly independent countries struggled to establish stable political systems. The lack of political stability has resulted in ongoing conflict, corruption, and human rights abuses, further exacerbating the challenges faced by people in the region.
3. Cultural challenges: Western ideals and cultural norms have become increasingly prominent in the region since the collapse of the Soviet Union. While this has brought some positive changes, such as increased access to information and technology, it has also created cultural tensions and conflicts. Many people in the region feel that their traditional way of life and values are being threatened by the spread of Western culture, leading to social and psychological challenges.
4. Globalization: The increasing globalization of the world economy has had a profound impact on the region, as it has on many other parts of the world. While globalization has created new opportunities and opened up new markets, it has also led to increased competition, economic inequality, and job insecurity. These challenges have been particularly acute in the region, where many people are still struggling to adapt to the rapid changes brought about by globalization.
5. Historical legacies: The collapse of the Soviet Union marked the end of an era in the region, and many people still struggle with the legacy of that time. For some, the collapse of the Soviet Union represented a loss of stability and security, as well as a sense of national identity. For others, the transition to a market economy and the spread of Western culture have been experienced as a kind of cultural imperialism, eroding traditional values and ways of life.

But it is not enough to just read or repeat these points. To debate effectively you need to make these or other points your own, understand them, craft them into an overall story, and deliver that story effectively.

If you want help learning to do that, you can schedule a session with me. It’s one of my specialties.

Best wishes in preparing!