Sample LNAT Essay: Why is Theft Wrong?
Posted by Catherine Robinson on
Hello! My name is Catherine Robinson, and I offer one-to-one LNAT tuition that covers both sections of the exam. More information on my tuition can be found by clicking here.
Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sample LNAT essay on why theft is wrong.
What is the LNAT essay?
The LNAT essay is a 40-minute written task that assesses your ability to construct a persuasive argument. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to communicate effectively.
Understand the question
Before you start writing, take the time to carefully read and understand the essay question. Identify the key terms and concepts, and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked. This will help you structure your essay and ensure that you address the question directly.
Plan your essay
Planning is crucial when it comes to writing a successful LNAT essay. Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and organise your thoughts. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your essay has a logical flow.
Structure your essay
A well-structured essay is easier to read and understand. Start with an introduction that provides an overview of your argument and sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Then, develop your argument in the body paragraphs, using evidence and examples to support your points. Finally, conclude your essay by summarising your main points and restating your thesis.
Use evidence and examples
When writing your LNAT essay, it is important to support your arguments with evidence and examples. This will make your essay more persuasive and convincing. Use relevant facts, statistics, and real-life examples to back up your claims and strengthen your argument.
Be concise and clear
In a time-limited task like the LNAT essay, it is important to be concise and clear in your writing. Avoid unnecessary repetition and wordiness. Use clear and straightforward language to convey your ideas effectively. It is much better to write in plain and simple language than convoluted flowery language.
Practice, practice, practice
Like any skill, essay writing requires practice. Take the time to practice writing LNAT essays under timed conditions. This will help you improve your time management skills and help familiarise yourself with the format and requirements of the test.
Seek feedback
After writing practice essays, seek feedback from teachers, tutors, or peers. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
Example essay: Why is theft wrong?
Why is theft morally wrong? This question has puzzled philosophers and ethicists for centuries. Some argue that theft can be justified under certain circumstances, while others vehemently oppose this view. One school of thought argues that theft is morally acceptable in cases of extreme necessity, where survival is at stake. However, this view is misguided because it fails to consider the broader implications of theft, the importance of property rights, and the potential harm it causes. Therefore, it will instead be argued that theft is inherently morally wrong.
Theft, fundamentally, is an infringement on the property rights of individuals. Property rights are the cornerstone of a just society, allowing individuals to enjoy the fruits of their labour, feel secure in their belongings, and facilitate economic exchange. Theft directly violates these rights, undermining the trust and security upon which societies are built. It disrupts the social contract by disregarding the basic principle that each person's property should be respected. One argument in favour of theft posits that it can be morally justifiable in cases of extreme necessity, where one steals to survive. However, this argument can be refuted. While it is empathetic to acknowledge the desperation of those who steal to feed their families, it is essential to consider the bigger picture. Allowing theft under these circumstances risks undermining the very property rights that ensure social order. Instead of promoting a culture of respect for individual rights, it sets a dangerous precedent that can lead to a breakdown of societal norms.
Theft is not just a breach of property rights; it also erodes the trust and social harmony upon which communities thrive. It creates an atmosphere of fear, suspicion, and insecurity. When individuals cannot trust that their property will be safeguarded, they are less likely to invest in their communities or engage in commerce. This erosion of trust can lead to a decline in economic and social well-being. Some argue that theft is a means of addressing economic inequality, taking from the rich to provide for the poor. However, this argument is problematic. While economic inequality is a serious concern, theft is not a sustainable solution. Addressing inequality should be achieved through legal and ethical means, such as social welfare programs and progressive taxation. Theft only exacerbates the problem by promoting a culture of violence and insecurity.
Lastly, theft has moral implications that extend beyond the act itself. It not only harms the victim but also has detrimental effects on the thief. Engaging in theft can lead to a degradation of one's own moral character, fostering a cycle of unethical behaviour. Some contend that theft is a form of protest against perceived injustices, acting as a mechanism for the marginalised to challenge the status quo. However, the moral implications of theft must be considered. While it is crucial to address injustices, resorting to theft perpetuates a culture of lawlessness and chaos. Constructive change can be achieved through legal avenues, peaceful protests, and advocacy, rather than resorting to criminal acts.
In conclusion, theft is wrong because it infringes on property rights, erodes trust and social harmony, and carries moral implications for both the victim and the perpetrator. While there may be arguments in favour of theft under extreme circumstances or as a response to perceived injustices, these views fail to consider the broader ethical implications and the importance of preserving a just and orderly society. Theft, in most cases, is a breach of our shared social contract, and its moral wrongness is undeniable.
Want help writing LNAT essays that will impress the admissions tutor? I will guide you through a step-by-step method to writing high quality LNAT essays. Find out more information here.
More stuff you may like:
Sample LNAT Essay: Why is Theft Wrong?
Sample LNAT Essay: Should Prisoners Have The Right To Vote?
Sample LNAT Essay: "A good sex education is vital in schools and shouldn't be subject to religious or cultural taboos." Discuss.
Sample LNAT Essay: How Should Judges Be Appointed?
Sample LNAT Essay: What disciplinary sanctions should teachers be allowed to use?
Sample LNAT Essay: Should private cars be rationed? If so, how?
Sample LNAT Essay: Should the law require people to vote in general elections?
How to Read Cases | Law Study Skills
Tips for First Year Law Students
Offer and Acceptance Problem Question Structure
UK Criminal Law: Basic Principles
How to Study Law | Free Law Revision Timetable
Misrepresentation Problem Question Structure
Damages: The Test of Remoteness and Reasonable Foreseeability
Free Movement of Goods Problem Question Structure
Discretionary Trust or Power of Appointment?
Everything You Need to Know About the LNAT
A Level Business Tutor | A* Exam Technique Help – Catherine Robinson Tuition