GMAT Essays (AWA)

"Americans spend far too much of their time buying and consuming non-essential goods. Studies show that, on average Americans spend over a quarter of their leisure time shopping. As such, it is no secret why America is losing its competitive edge relative to other countries. Instead of spending their time productively, Americans are wasting time through frivolous consumption. In
order to counteract this trend, Americans should spend more time focused on personal and communal development--by, for example, pursuing educational advancement or participating in volunteer opportunities."

Discuss how well reasoned you find this argument. Point out flaws in the argument's logic and analyze the argument's underlying assumptions. In addition, evaluate how supporting evidence is used and what evidence might counter the argument's conclusion. You may also discuss what additional evidence could be used to strengthen the argument or what changes would make the argument more logically sound.

In the passage, the author argues that Americans should spend more time in personal and communal development rather than in frivolous consumption to stop losing competitive edge. This is based on the premises that shopping is a nonproductive activity and a waste of time. However, on deeper analysis, it becomes apparent that certain relevant aspects have not been taken into consideration, leading to a number of mistaken assumptions and logical flaws.

One such flaw is that the author assumes that Americans do not already pursue educational and communal activities. The fact that people spend a quarter of their leisure time shopping does not imply that they are not scheduling time for more productive activities. They may be using the remaining time to attend classes or volunteering. Furthermore, the author fails tot take into consideration the definition of leisure activities. Some people considerate educational activities an obligation rather that leisure, hence, do not pursue these activities on their spare time. In order to strengthen the argument, the author should include facts that prove that these activities are neither being pursued in the remaining spare time nor in other time.

Moreover, the writer's argument is incorrectly based on the assumption that shopping is neither a productive activity nor an activity that can boost the economy indirectly. Many Americans shop to make a profit by selling their goods or to acquire insumes for producing a new product. Since they make a profit from this commercial activity and create value for others, it can be argued that shopping can boost the economy. Additionally, the author fails to take into consideration the indirect effects of pursuing unproductive activities. One such effect may be stress relief. Like exercising, shopping can relax stressed Americans and boost their concentration at work. To overcome this flaw, the argument should explain why shopping is perceived as unproductive and provide facts to strengthen this claim.

After a closer examination of the passage presented, it is apparent that there are several logical flaws. It is important to take into consideration whether Americans already pursue educational or communal activities in non-leisure time. It is also important to consider the positive effects of the activity before arguing that it is prejudicial. The recommendation in the essay show how the argument may be strengthened and made more logically sound.