###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Love, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: Love is in the heart of the Lover:

The storm outside crackling down lighting. Windy and heavy rain, making the whole day a gloomy melancholic day. Just as well, because her heart isn’t fairing any better. The storm between her and her husband from last night is still fresh in her mind. The baby is crying! Rushes in like the righteous wind into her child’s room scoops her up in her arms, “oh little Jean don’t cry mummy is here” and Jean vomits all over her clothes. Her husband with the demeanour of absolute steadiness, takes Jean off her arms, and shoots the baby to calm. She is trying to wipe off the vomit, as she turns, “Happy 3rd anniversary darling, I think we can do better” He is holding a rose in his hand. How can he still love me with vomit all over me? Just then she notices, the storm outside has stopped and the sun is smiling through her window!

Love, a mysterious force. There is no simple explanation to love nor there any one definition to it. Love is a seed that is planted when two people are attracted to each other. As is in the case above. The couple has fallen in love and the result is their marriage. So, love is a strong emotion, it makes us make life-changing decision. They have decided to leave behind their carefree lifestyle to settle down instead. So, in a sense love bring maturity in us. It teaches us to care for others over ourselves. Maria (the wife) had dashed across the room to her daughter’s room as soon as Jean started crying, she forgot all of her problem of the previous night when she saw Jean crying. So, she is putting baby Jean first before her own problems. Not only that, Jame (the husband) has also rushed to the room to help Maria because she was destressed with the baby, he similarly had seemingly forgotten about the issues they had previously. Hence, we see how love makes a person care more about others then themselves. So, to reflect back to the event love certainly brings maturity in a person.

Maturity has many aspect, not only being caring but also to accept ones mistakes. As it happens, love teaches a person to accept their mistakes and to admit them. In a healthy relationship, couples will have argument, no doubt about that. It is curious to see that, in most cases those arguments are resolved when one of them realises their mistakes and admits it. Moreover, when one of them admits to their mistakes, the other jumps to look past the issue and reassures their love to each other. Just as Jame did for Maria, regardless of their fight, he was willing to look past it and wanted to reassure his love to her. Similarly, she was just as willing for them to overlook their fight as, she indeed took those roses from him and hugged him – with vomit smeared clothes. Yes, we might say “eww” but to them it’s the pronunciation of love louder than any microphone. Because they are both willing to look past their short comings to Love each other. Therefore, yet again maturity and growth is brought about by love.

Growth is a person is to understand that love is the beginning of a journey and it flowers into mutual respect and acceptance. Exactly what is taught to us by love. As love was the seed planted through marriage, it needs regular nurturing to grow it into a strong tree. That continuous nurturing in love is the mutual respect and acceptance that comes through a marriage. Over time couples understand once the “honeymoon” phase is over, they may see things in the other that they do not like. That is normal as everyone is different but what keeps a marriage going is the acceptance of the partners as they are and have respect for them all the same. As is the case for our lovebirds Maria and Jame.

They had argument yet they still have respect for each other as Jame ran to help Maria when she needed him. Thus, Love also teaches us to be accepting of others and have respect for them.

In summary, Love is a strong emotion. It certainly has universal appeal to everyone. With love comes matuarity and growth in a person. As seen in above discussion it teaches people many valuable life lessons. Just as the tree with nurture and care gives beautiful flower, so does love give a fulfilled life with mutual understanding, respect, care and passion.. ###Response: 60-64


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Crisis, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: Crises occur as a result of socially and historically constructed beliefs that ultimately impact the lives of the innocent. Individuals are placed in challenging situations due to factors that are often beyond their control. Although some people can learn from their situations and grow as individuals, it occurs at the cost of the loss of their childhood, their freedom and some aspects of their individuality. This essay will discuss how racism can cause crises in the lives of the innocent, focusing on the experience of African Americans as an example.

Before understanding how an individual can grow, if at all, at the face of a crisis, it is essential to first explore what a crisis is and why it occurs. I think a crisis is any difficult situation that jeopardises an individual's life, to any extent. Although the exact reasons behind why a crisis occurs could be very complex and indeed multiple, reflecting on my minimal experience of the world, I think they are often historical and constructed socially. Using African Americans as an example, they have faced crises and have witnessed extreme racism. If we question why they faced extreme racism, generalisation, restrictions on their life, we may not find one simple answer. This is mainly because there is no single reason. One can name ignorance and aspects of inhumanity to be some of the reasons behind the oppression of these individuals but why any unfairness occurs in the world is challenging to answer.

The way people respond to crises, or any difficult situation is dependent on who one is. This is the notion of identity, which is also relative and indeed, multifactorial.
One's identity develops from a person's exposure to their culture, their relationships with those around them and may also have some genetic basis. Given the opportunity, most people can probably grow as people at the face of a difficulty but sometimes, it is not a choice. A Netflix series called 'when they see us' tales the story of five African Americans known as the Central Park 5. These young, innocent boys were imprisoned for the rape of a white American woman mainly as a result of coercion by the police to accept the crimes they never committed, resulting in their imprisonment for 6-14 years. This indeed is a crisis that they faced, mainly due to racism, ignorance and generalisation. They were stripped away from their childhood and the crisis they faced crushed their youth. How can they grow as individuals and develop their unique identities when they are exposed to such unfairness before they even have the opportunity to explore the world around them? How are they to grow or learn anything about themselves when they know that their situation is merely due to the colour of their skin and not the consequence of their actions?

These are some difficult questions to answer but what we can do is to at least ask them! Why should anyone be pushed into a crisis due to the ignorance that existed centuries ago? Why can we not see the individual beyond their culture or their religion or the colour of their skin? We must ensure that at least at an individual level, we do not become creators of a crisis for anyone and attempt to stop the chain of unfairness and oppression where we can.. ###Response: 60-64


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Mercy, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: The concept of having mercy is something we do not often hear being discussed explicitly. Mercy is the act of showing kindness towards another person or group of individuals however, I find this very notion problematic. This is because it has the potential to divide people into groups and as a consequence, places some individuals in categories. Due to this, a certain discourse is normalised where those receiving mercy are somehow inferior, and only capable of reaching a specific level of what the society may call 'success'. This piece thus aims to shed some light on why mercy may be a problematic concept, using the example of refugees to highlight its consequences.

At first glance, the concept of showing mercy seems to be a noble act however on closer inspection, one may realise the problems this idea holds. This is because having mercy immediately gives rise to a power imbalance and divides people into categories: those who show mercy, and those who receive it. It is these that receive the mercy that are disadvantaged because they are considered inferior, thus capable of receiving mercy. The 'merciful' might also be unnecessarily empowered, perhaps enabling a power misuse, a concept not alien to many disadvantaged groups. As such, although having or showing mercy may truly be acts that all humans must possess, when considering its application in human interaction, some groups can be unfairly disadvantaged compared to others.

The notion of marcy has the potential to alter, or rather restrict, the identities of those considered worthy of receiving mercy. Identity is the idea of developing and exploring who one is, as a result of the social interactions and their personal experiences. However, if the social interactions in one's life restrict one's ability to being able to receive mercy only and as a consequence, less capable of finding their true self, free of any interference, it is clear to notice that these individuals are disadvantaged. It may even normalise certain discourse around the abilities of these individuals, more often that not forcing them to also believe that they are only capable of what the society thinks they can achieve. Using the example of refugees and those belonging to non-English speaking backgrounds, I am a living example of how mercy may place you in categories. Having been in Australia for 8 years, throughout my high school, I was almost accustomed to 'you have done well having only been here for such little time.' Although I acknowledge that those who said such things did so from a pure place, without any negativity, I think receiving such comments can make you question yourself and perhaps settle for less. What I mean by that is that it may discourage one from trying their very best in whatever they do because they may believe that they are incapable of achieving more. Undoubtedly, mercy is a pure act that all humans must possess however it can have negative consequences on the development of an individual's identity, restricting them to certain categories only.

Indeed, it is crucial to have the ability to feel for other people and be kind to one another however the idea of mercy has the ability to divide people into categories, thus restricting the abilities of these receiving mercy to explore and identify who they truely are. This perhaps is an issue one does not often think about and is embedded in the very societal structures we have but what we can do is to change our mindset. We must realise that showing kindness of mercy towards others does not mean they are inferior and must show care in the language we use to communicate with them in order to prevent the creation of a divide. ###Response: 60-64


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is War, the prompt/s are - In a civilised society, welfare and warfare cannot go hand in hand and here is the essay: Warfare for welfare

Environmental activism has led to an increased awareness of various issues concerning the effect human activities have on the environment. This form of activism has re-defined the modern-day warfare; it now presents with online discourse, protests and rallies and public figures of all ages seeking to take down the enemy. Without the profound impact of the modern-day warfare under the guide of environmentalism, social welfare would be compromised. Environmental welfare has been a necessary step in advocating for the welfare of humankind.

Environmental activists have used online warfare to execute change on a global level. The frontline has shifted and has now turned into an online battleground. The advent of social media and online domains have allowed people of all age groups to surf a rising tide of adult concern and unite to make a change. Prolific activist Greta Thunberg has capitalised off the online world when she kickstarted the global climate change strike. After posting about skipping school and striking outside Swedish Parliament in Stockholm, the movement quickly spread and went global with an estimated 1.6 million children in 125 countries leaving school to strike. The shift to an online world has allowed larger groups of people to be brought together to fight for a common cause and has also provided a direct stream of communication to the target. Now, green fighters of all ages, sex, race and ability can tweet, post, and video and engage in an online warfare with the enemy; the government. This form of warfare has flared in popularity partly due to its ability to promote freedom of speech which is often unregulated. With no governing rules, environmental fighters have called upon tactics of online petitions and exposing anti-climate figures to make a change. The wide-reaching impact of the online form has mobilised larger groups of people to take part in environmental warfare. Their efforts in battle have and will continue to promote the betterment for environmental welfare.

Environmental warfare through strikes and rallies is an effective tool in disrupting the system and making a change. Strikes and protest build solidarity amongst comrades and demonstrate to the enemy a large number of people have a strong preference for climate action. This form of warfare has been replicated in many facets of society with the same goal of promoting environmental well-fare. Campus activism, such as the ‘United Students Against Sweatshops’ fought in battle to demand that universities do not work with apparel and sports goods companies that source products from sweatshops. The enormously successful battle forced universities to act and eventually source an ethical apparel and sports goods company. This form of battle is often a necessary step against the enemy to invoke a change on a larger scale. Environmental warfare offers opportunities for self-education and self-discovery by the large impact such tactics impose. They have the ability to raise the policy profile of climate change by harnessing the power of the population who demand for better environmental welfare and give agency to all generations who wish to take part in this form of warfare. Environmental warfare in the form of strikes and rallies acts as a public advocate for environmental well-fare.

Warfare can take many shapes, forms and meanings. The modern day warfare has developed under the guide of environmental activism. It has been a necessary step in order to make change on a larger scale and promote the well-fare of society.

The ability to engage in freedom of speech which is often unregulated, include millions of people across the globe in this form of warfare and. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Human Nature, the prompt/s are - It does not take much to reveal the primitive and animal side of human nature. and here is the essay: Human nature: mirror or roadblock

Society continues to change, evolve and take on new shapes and forms. Indeed, there are groups who are vicious and unkind but there are also those grounded in altruism and selflessness. Human nature is malleable and the expression of characteristics largely depends on the environment around us. While it does not take much to reveal the primitively of those in society, we cannot assume that everyone will fit this mold. Human nature is an eclectic mix of personalities that have grown from the environment that surrounds us.

It is not difficult to reveal the animalistic side of human nature when situated in a particular environment. Male domination and oppression over females is not a new condition. Yet, certain circumstances and environmental triggers seem to elicit this side more readily. The progression to an online world has shifted our style of communication tremendously. Now, online rhetoric and bullying are rife as it can occur privately behind a screen without being exposed in front of our peers.
Unfortunately, those who are deemed subordinate are frequently being attacked with immense vitriol. Online mediums such as Twitter and Instagram have stimulated the growth of primitively of online users. Because these mediums are normally unregulated and allow the freedom of speech, no matter the content, users are able to promote their viscous thoughts and spread online hate without ramifications. Public figures such as the activist Greta Thunberg and author Clemetine Ford have publically exposed the online hate they continue to receive. Ford argued that online communication has allowed people across the globe to share hate, spread detrimental messages towards societal growth and act as they would not normally do without the consequences. The online environment has allowed users to express their inner animalistic side towards ‘subordinate groups’ due to the lack of public and societal repercussions and regulation. The primitive side of human nature can be easily exposed when there is little punishment in response.

Human beings are able to grow and take on new forms in response to the environment they are based in. While some beings have fallen a victim to becoming a product of their negative environment, others have chosen to make a change. Fortunately, humanity can take on all forms and choose to make a change to the external environment as opposed to perpetuate the primitivty that occurs. Podcast host and author Michelle Andrews frequently speaks of her early career in the large media industry Mama Mia. As a young author, she often wrote articles that were borderline nasty and inflammatory to invite readers in. Her personal growth and reflections reveal her distaste with her previous style of writing, as it was detrimental to female progression and against her personal beliefs of kindness. Now, as a progressive feminist she advocates for equal rights and fair writing. The shapes and forms we take on are a direct result of the environment we are placed in. Unfortunately, certain industries promote negativity and primitivity, while others are altruistic and advocate for others. Luckily, human beings are not stagnant and have toe ability to grow and change the environment they are in.

Human nature can hold a mirror to the environment that surrounds us or act as a roadblock to perpetuating the primitivity that can grow. Unfortunately, certain triggers can reveal the primitive side more easily and also nurture the growth of viciousness more readily. Luckily, our malleability means we can also change our ways and grow. Human nature is a product of the environment, yet it is up to each being whether they want to fall a victim to the inner daemon or make a change for the betterment of others.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Utilitarianism, the prompt/s are - It is the greatest good to the greatest number of people which is the measure of right and wrong ~ Jeremy Bentham and here is the essay: In a world with so many different cultures and traditions it is impossible to please everyone. Thus, instinctively it seems the best we can do is please as many as we can. Utilitarianism uses this moral reasoning to give guidance when faced with a difficult decision: choose the option where the benefits outweigh the negatives for the greatest number of people.
However, this thinking can be dangerous as it can lead people to do unjust things for the sake of the greater good. What is best for the majority does not always mean what is right and this is something we must be wary of.

One of the greatest flaws of utilitarianism is that it does not consider injustice to the minority. When the British colonized Australia and captured what is known as the Stolen Generation, stealing Aboriginal children from their parents to teach them ‘civilized’ ways for the greater good, it was recognised as utilitarian. This notion of ‘for a greater good’ allowed for a significant evil injustice to occur and the cost was not worth it, as acknowledged today after an apology was made to the Aboriginal community. It could be argued that this was not true utilitarianism but rather just a move of power by the British in order to justify their colonization, but how does utilitarianism differ from the majority exercising its power on the minority? It doesn’t. Given that the pursuit of colonization does not really exist today, another example can be provided to demonstrate that utilitarianism still persists, just in less blatant injustices.

In France, after serious terrorist attacks in 2011, the burqa, an Islamic face covering veil, was banned in public. This was justified as done for the greater good, such that criminals could be caught more easily and could not mask their face under the guise of religious reasoning. When looking at the statistics however, less than 1% of woman in France wear the burqa and given that we don’t also see Santa beards or tightly worn hoodies banned in public spaces for the same reasons, it seems as though this is an extreme ban targeting a certain population and not criminal activity. Today, face masks are being enforced in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19, while the burqa is still banned, reinforcing the idea that perhaps this notion to ban the burqa is more unjust for the minority of women it applies to, than it is for the greater good at all. Even if we think these unjust utilitarian ways are behind us, they certainly still exist today, allowing the majority to exercise its power on the minority.

We must think about why it is we instinctively agree that what is done for the greater good is best. Although a humble notion when considered in the context of war, where one sacrifices himself for his country, in today’s world it is typically a war of the majority against the minority. Which populations make up our minorities? The poor, the racially profiled, the abused. Utilitarianism continues to justify the systems that disadvantage them to keep the majority on top. It seems we are raised to think that what is best for the majority is best for all, regardless of the result. Not only does this thinking minimize the validity and rights of the minorities but it suggests that the progress we have made in terms of equality is superficial. Even if we allow minorities to have the right to vote or equal opportunity to jobs etc. This means nothing if one day it pleases the majority to remove these rights and utilitarianism justifies this as acceptable. Of course, there is no way for everyone to be satisfied but at least with a change of thinking we can ensure that the majority cannot rule in instances where it means an injustice to the minority, such as a ban of religious expression.

The assumed and unquestioned idea that the greater good is what is best should no longer be the norm.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Punishment, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: In this day and age, smacking children as punishment is severely frowned upon, although not actually illegal in Australia. Despite the negative stigmatism, studies have shown that punishment can be more effective than reward. When it comes to physical punishment in the classroom, children are most likely to learn when the consequence of not doing so involves pain rather than pleasure.

Although dreaded by students, tests are opportunities for them to demonstrate the knowledge they have learnt about a topic. When a student does not apply effort into learning a topic, it is shown in their test results. Controlled physical punishment as a result of poor test results would be an effective way of preventing this behaviour in the future. This is because physical punishment inflicts pain, and pain is often followed by fear. Fear conditions humans to avoid what they are afraid of and in order to avoid punishment, students will have to put more effort into learning. Thus, naturally, physical punishment will lead to better educated students.

Physical punishment also encourages students to learn through negative reinforcement. That is, when a student learns that by studying they have escaped physical pain, they feel relief and satisfaction. These sensations work as negative reinforcement as the student realises that learning prevents the onset of punishment and thus will continue to put effort into learning. Additionaly, students who are already attempting to educate themselves will vicariously learn through the observation of others being punished. By observing others being punished for a behaviour you chose not to do, you are more likely to continue to avoid that behaviour. Thus, students who observe others receive physical punishment and avoid it themselves are also more likely to continue to try to learn as they realise this is the favourable behaviour.

Once the behaviour is taught it becomes habit. Once students have learnt that punishment arrives when they do not study, it will become a habit to study in order to avoid pain. Once students become used to studying, it will be easier for them to continue this behaviour without punishment continuing or constantly being threatened.

Physical punishment is an effective way of making students learn through a number of means including by inducing fear, by negative reinforcement and by vicarious learning. Together these results lead to well-educated students which is currently not what our education system is producing.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Conformity, the prompt/s are - Anybody who is any good is different from anybody else ~ Felix Frankfurter and here is the essay: Finding the grey in conformity.
Charles Dudley Warner once said, “we are half ruined by conformity, but we should be wholly ruined without it.” A controversial statement, but nonetheless one that requires contemplation. Warner’s idea that we are somewhat ruined by conformity has been echoed through the views of traditionalists. Despite this, without conformity, we lack the groundwork needed to protect our society. As such, we should aim to find a balance between conformity and originality, as both are necessary aspects of our lives. This essay aims to review how conformity can be both a negative and positive pillar in our lives, and how we can combat this issue.

As humans, we strive for originality. However, conformity within the human race has ruined the originality amongst us. Traditionalists are often set in their ways – they don’t encourage change. As we, as a species, are constantly evolving, wouldn’t it be right to assume that change is inevitable? Well, according to these traditionalists, this change should be stopped. Take gay rights for example. As a current movement across the world, gay rights have been a hot topic for everyone – the importance of these rights has not gone unseen. Despite this, traditionalists are constantly shutting these individuals down, forcing them to conform to society as it exists now. Conforming to the standards of society has been a jailer of freedom - depriving individuals of their equal rights and as a result, our chances of growing as a society have been ruined by conformity.

Despite this, in some aspects of life we need conformity. Imagine a world without any rules or guidelines. It would be a mess. Conformity teaches people how to act. In the case of the United States, protests against the ‘stay at home’ regulations of isolation during the COVID- 19 pandemic have shown how dear the consequences of anti-conformity can be. Individuals are going against the rules set by the government, taking matters into their own hands. As a result, thousands of people are being put at risk of contracting the deadly virus. This goes further than just disease – we see it in crime laws as well. Breaking the speed limit is such a common issue in Australia, and it the cause of majority of the crime-related deaths we have. As a result, individuals who reject conformity are destroying the lives of innocent people.
Consequently, without conformity, we would be ruined.

So, what is better – conforming to societies standards, or going against them? In truth, neither is perfect. There are flaws to both sides. In order to combat this, we should follow in the footsteps of Buddha, who suggested following a path of grey in a world of black and white. In this sense, we would follow the rules and regulations set out by governments, however we would not be afraid to challenge these with our own views where reasonable. A key movement whereby challenging conformity was necessary can be seen through Copernicus and his Heliocentric theory. Without his movement against the Church and their views, our understanding of the solar system would be far less advanced than it is today.
Despite this, in cases where people’s lives are put at risk, this would not be appropriate. Discretion should be used where necessary to find a balance between conforming and challenging.

In essence, this essay explores the truth behind Warner’s statement given that although
conformity may ruin us, we would indeed be ruined without conformity. Instead of taking either side, we should instead aim to find a balance between the two. In this sense, society should follow the rules set, but not be afraid to challenge them where necessary.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Suffering, the prompt/s are - Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls ~ Kahlil Gibran and here is the essay: The Importance of Suffering

In the words of Kahlil Gibran, out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls. The notion that our struggles help us grow as individuals is one that is indeed true for humans. When we suffer as a society, we often band together in an attempt to move past the problem. In this sense, the power in numbers enables strength and growth. Further, suffering is essential for happiness. Our ability to suffer can readjust our internal scale of happiness, putting things into perspective. Despite this, not all suffering is beneficial. Given that suffering can induce harm, we must consider the consequences of pain. This essay will review both the benefits and consequences of suffering.

Our ability to suffer allows for growth and strength. As s society, Australian’s are well known for their integration and tight-bondedness. In the face of societal issues, Australian’s band together, and form power in numbers. Take the 2019 Australian bushfires as an example. In the face of this catastrophic disaster, individuals from all around the country came together to help. There were food baskets created, monetary donations made and even volunteer firefighters helping. We came together as a nation to support one another. We rebuilt life, we rebuilt our homes but more importantly, we rebuilt one another. Through this ability to come together, we faced our struggles and came out stronger. This event changed us – for the better.

Further, suffering not only makes us stronger, but simply allows us to be happy. Much like many other bodily processes, happiness is chemically based. The hormone serotonin is released in the brain and allows us to perceive emotions of happiness. But who defines happy? What makes one person happy, may not make another happy. It is our struggles that truly give us a perception of what makes us a happy. In a similar manner to blood pressure where a scale is used to determine both high and low blood pressure, we can use our scale of happiness and suffering to determine what makes us happy and what does not. Those who have seen worse, are often happier at the simplest of things. In contrast, those who never suffer, will never know what is truly feels like to be happy. Our ability to suffer shows us the dark side, giving light to the bright side. Without suffering, we would not know true happiness.

Despite this, not all events of suffering are beneficial to us. A prime example of this is war veterans. To those who know war veterans personally know that the people who leave us, are not the same as those who come back. The events they endure whilst serving for their country and things we would never imagine. As a result, many war veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their suffering. Take Herbert Richardson for example – war veteran who served at the Vietnam war and whose life was changed forever. Richardson was diagnosed with PTSD shortly after his return home. A consequence of this was murder. Now this is not to say that all war veterans have the same fate, but in the case of Richardson, his PTSD got the better of him, and landed him on death row. As a result, the events we ensured, the suffering we experienced, may place more of a burden than a benefit on us in the long-term.

In all, this essay shows that suffering has two sides – the one side that promotes strength and happiness, and the other, that burdens us for life. Given the two opposite consequences of suffering, it may be suggested that suffering is good up until a certain threshold. Once we exceed this, suffering may no longer pose a benefit to society. As a result, we should continue to challenge ourselves, and not fear the struggles we are bound to face, however we must remember when to pull back after a certain point, to ensure we maintain to harm to ourselves or those around us.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Inequality, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: We are privileged and it is time we realised it. We live in a society where our government allow free healthcare for its citizens. Our ability to head to the hospital the moment we are injured instead of thinking "will I be able to afford this?" is a privilege that continues to go unnoticed. It is unfortunate however, that there are many individuals, such as African Americans, that do not have the basic necessity of healthcare. The lack opportunities given to African Americans to secure a stable income hinders the opportunity to access healthcare. This reveals how racial and prejudicial values still continue to be entrenched within contemporary society.

The lack of access to healthcare by many African Americans highlights the deep-rootedness of racial inequality within America. The United State of America is perceived as the land of the free, a land with endless possibilities but a mere glance at societal structures that limit certain groups of individuals to access healthcare reveals the instability and inequality present within society. Since the period of the slave trade, African Americans have been perceived as inferior and subordinate to the White individual. Legislative laws normalised the prejudicial and racial values aimed towards the African American community. This resulted in the formation of racial profiles that labelled African Americans as lazy, unintelligent and a danger to society. As a result, African Americans were marginalised in society and were deprived the access to education and white collar jobs. Due to the lack of opportunities, African Americans have been unable to attain opportunities with a stable flow of income. Due to the inability to afford healthcare, we have seen the importance of healthcare become less of a priority. The lack of governmental support to assist struggling African Americans reveals how society continues to favour and serve the most privilege in society. Instead of aiming to provide all citizens with their fundamental human rights, the American government continues to profit off by commodifying healthcare. This has lead to deleterious consequences within the African American society.

Governance of archaic racial values that have denied healthcare to African Americans continue to have serious long-term consequences on the livelihoods of African Americans. We see African Americans with families delay the pertinence of accessing healthcare as their main priority is to feed and look after their families. A study conducted by the university of Stanford detailed that African Americans are disproportionately affected in the current COVID-19 pandemic. We see a higher death rate amongst African Americans in comparison to other racial groups. This blatantly highlights how social structures that were created throughout history, continue to be engrained within the core of contemporary society.
Those from wealthy backgrounds will continue to have access to healthcare whilst marginalised minority groups will suffer the consequences of a system that does not offer the fundamental service of healthcare.

Next time you go to the hospital or the doctors, think about your privilege. Healthcare is an absolute necessity but due to underlying social structures that discriminate minorities, we see many living without their fundamental human rights. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Mercy, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: The virtue of mercy is undervalued in society. It appears that individuals would rather consume in anger, sadness and frustration than be merciful. As the world progresses, minority groups have become more comfortable with sharing their stories which entails acts of discrimination fuelled by prejudicial beliefs and attitudes. As minorities have become more comfortable opening up, individuals that have acted wrongly due to a lack of knowledge are being persecuted and shamed within contemporary society. This has lead to a cultural shift where society chooses to antagonise a mistaken individual, rather than having mercy on them.

The virtue of mercy is pertinent for the growth and progression of society. It is evident that society today has evolved from what it was ten years ago. People have become more aware and are more open to the discussion of events surrounding the harmful and toxic experiences many minority individuals have faced. Instead of creating a safe environment for discussion and mercy, the cultural notion of 'cancelling individuals' has resulted in shame and blame attitudes. This has been evident with many celebrities that have been deprived of opportunities due to sexist or racial comments they have made during childhood or teenage years. Although I strongly condemn the views and attitudes of these comments, it is important to realise that individuals evolve and experience growth throughout life. Our identity, attitudes and beliefs are not static and instead are ever evolving with new experiences and environmental changes. Instead of creating a toxic culture to isolate individuals, it is important to be merciful and accept the ever-evolving identity.

Under Aristotle's Virtue theory, having mercy on individuals that realise and accept their mistakes, is ethical. Aristotle's Virtue Theory states that the most virtuous thing you can do in a given situation is to be the best person you can be. It presumes that people who have good character act ethically. As such, those that decide to be hateful instead of merciful, sabotages the chance for others to grow and accept their mistakes. By being merciful, we begin to understand that everyone at some point in their lives have acted or said something inappropriate. Instead of shaming individuals, it is important to acknowledge and have mercy for what was said/done and create a space for personal development. Through being merciful, we are able to strengthen our relationship with other individuals of diverse backgrounds. Instead of viewing our mistakes as something to be ashamed of, the act of mercy can view such a situation as a learning curve.

Mercy is not a sign of weakness. Those that decide to be merciful show the most courage by having a growth mentality.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Education, the prompt/s are - "Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family" ~ Kofi Annan and here is the essay: I recently came across an article and was baffled to read that Indigenous Australians have much lower literacy and numeracy rates compared to the rest of the Australian population. Access to quality education should be available to every single person as it holds a tremendous power, liberating individuals and allowing them to live a quality life. Whether it be politically empowering, assuages financial burden or elevates health, education is the beacon for a better life.

Over history, education has allowed millions of individuals to fight for their rights and freedom under oppressive governments. Education on history and human rights is vital in understanding what kind of world we want to live in. This knowledge allows societies to learn from the downfalls of the past and ensure that the correct decisions are made to prevent regression. In fact, some governments are so threatened by the power that knowledge gives its citizens, that it intentionally censors history to prevent overthrow. For example, the Hindu nationalistic government of India has removed statements in history
textbooks, where India’s founders encourage India to maintain its secularity. Evidently, education regarding history and human rights is vital for the progression of society.

Furthermore, education plays a major role financially, significantly increasing rates of employment. Regardless of whether it secondary or tertiary education, skills such as literacy, numeracy and communication skills are testaments of a quality education. As these skills are essential for a number of jobs, education opens the door to a number of financial opportunities. In countries such as Sri Lanka, where poverty rates are high, free education has proved to improve the livelihood of many individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds, by boosting employment. A steady income allows these individuals to access medications, nutritious foods and housing, drastically improving their lives. Therefore, this demonstrates the importance of education in alleviating financial burden.

In addition to this, education in regard to health is also essential in a functioning, happy society. In recent decades, more and more people, especially in Western cultures are becoming knowledgeable on the realities of mental health. This has allowed people the freedom to access the help they need. However, in Eastern culture, a lack of education in mental health has led to the stigmatisation of it. Instead of viewing those with mental
health struggles as in need of help, they are rather labelled as ‘crazy’, preventing the opportunity for any improvement. Therefore, this demonstrates that knowledge has the power to liberate us.

As the ancient proverb goes, knowledge truly is power. Everyday communities around the world fight for equality and liberation, and education is the key to unlocking this. Through providing political and financial freedom, as well as preventing the stigmatisation of mental health, education is the way to a brighter future.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Success and Failure, the prompt/s are - "Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future." ~ Robert H. Schuller and here is the essay: Robert H. Schuller once quipped, “Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future.” In essence, his remarks fail to capture the significant role our hurts and failures have in paving the path for a brighter future. From our personal relationships to our educational endeavours, our mistakes are what build the foundation for a successful life.

The types of people we surround ourselves with have a massive influence on the person we become and learning from our past downfalls only helps us make better decisions.
Regardless of who you are, it is inevitable that at some point in our lifetime, we either have had an argument or a falling out with a friend or other relation. Although these experiences can often be painful and extremely disheartening, they are the resources that we must use to improve our lives. For example, breaking up with a partner may bring us a lot of hurt, however it allows us to understand the qualities we truly want in our future partner.
Therefore, learning from our pains can help inform the decisions we make for future relationships.

Furthermore, this same concept can be applied to our educational endeavours and how we can use our failures to our advantage. From primary school, we are graded on our performance in all our subjects. The purpose of this system is not to define individuals based on their abilities, but rather provide feedback and encourage improvement. For example, receiving a low mark in an exam is often disheartening and can make you feel like a failure. However, these marks allow you to recognise where you need to improve and can guide your future study. Therefore, using our mistakes is advantageous and actually encouraged in educational endeavours.

Some may argue that using pain and failure can have dangerous consequences such as cynicism after a failed relationship or make us doubt our capabilities. However, this fails to recognise the idea of using our downfalls astutely, rather than dwelling in our own misfortune. In order to truly make the most of our painful experiences, we must have an open mind to grasp what we can take from these experiences. Rather than allowing them to dishearten us, we must allow them to make us more confident in ourselves and our abilities.

Ultimately, even throughout history, the recognition of mistakes and failures is what has allowed society to progress. Therefore, if we want to genuinely advance in life, we must adapt the mindset to utilise our pains to fulfil our hopes and shape our futures to our desires.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Civility, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: The term “civility” prompts images of a utopic Jane Austen world, where discourse involved an elaborate set of rules and etiquette reflected one’s status and morality. Civility, being the formal politeness and courtesy in behaviour or speech, enables us to respectfully navigate interactions with others. Nowadays, however, incivility seems to permeate every facet of life, from hostile workplaces to protests to cyber-bullying. Loss of our civility could be indicative of a social failing in our community or it could be a side effect of significant change in the name of equality. Civility is one of the most beneficial and useful human virtues, but only when there is equal opportunity first.

Civil discourse enables us to preserve our relationships with others. Humans are inherently heterogeneous beings with respect to experiences, lifestyles and opinions. In order to cooperate within society, we must look beyond our differences. This is particularly essential in the workforce, as any form of incivility, such as mocking, exclusion or dismissal, is very disruptive to employees’ emotions, motivations, creativity and overall performance. Not only does this impact employee wellbeing, it has been estimated that negative behaviour costs some companies millions of dollars in lost productivity. The societal cost of incivility, both in human relationships and monetary value, is extremely high.

Whilst civility maintains human relationships, it can be abused as a vehicle for avoiding change, thus denying disenfranchised individuals the chance to attain equal rights and justice. Throughout history, activists have seldom won battles against injustice by asking politely. For example, Rosa Parks’ historic act of civil disobedience, of refusing to give up her seat for a white man, propelled the civil rights movement. A more recent example of a woman dismissing civility in the pursuit of positive change is Greta Thunberg’s climate change movement. In these instances, disregard of societal etiquettes with simple acts of incivility have been necessary to instigate action. Enforcing a formalised set of rules governing social interactions is, therefore, likely to hinder the pursuit of justice.

Conflict is endemic to the human condition. Whilst civility is our best hope to maintain the delicate equilibrium of society, incivility is also occasionally necessary to disrupt the status quo. For better or worse, we do not live in a Jane Austen novel, thus we can choose incivility, preferably in the pursuit of equality and justice.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Language, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: “Parkinson’s disease is the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic substantia nigra neurons”. Your ability to decipher this statement depends on background. As a scientist, it makes perfect sense to me. If I were to repeat this statement to my mum, who is a hairdresser, she would probably tell me to leave. Language is an incredibly powerful mechanism of communication between humans, but only if we use it correctly. In this case, language represents a barrier between scientists and lay people.

Scientists are publicly funded to investigate phenomena that will hopefully advance our society, thus are accountable to convey their research in a way that is digestible by the public. The use of scientific language publicly is advantageous as it instils trust and promotes the correct course of action.

In my daily life, I am constantly switching between what I call “science” versus “normal” language. It’s dependent on context, who I’m speaking with and what we’re speaking about. Interestingly, with the recent COVID-19 global pandemic, scientific language is starting to creep into situations where I would exclusively engage in “normal” language, amongst non-scientific family and friends. The anxiety surrounding this event and reliance on scientists to convey a clear picture, means that using scientific language to explain graphs and statistics and convey logic behind strict isolation measures is necessary to instil trust and compliance. Language reinforces trust and appropriate behaviour within society.

Conversely, using language without a strong explanation nor clarity can lead to misinterpretation. I have encountered many examples of non-qualified individuals providing advice under the guise of convincing language. For example, the plight of some organisations to eliminate COVID-19 with the ingestion of bleach. Explanations to justify this horrific “remedy” utilise scientific terminology, such as “disinfect” and “DNA”. Whilst this may seem like an obvious fallacy to some, there are others who will enact on this advice out of ignorance. Without a strong understanding of the background knowledge behind language, nor appropriate explanations, it can be misinterpreted to the detriment of society.

Our science is only as good as our communication. The interpretation of scientific information can mean the difference between life and death choices, with ambiguity potentially detrimental to a functioning society. We must strive to educate the public in scientific language without condescension, as everyone has the right to make informed choices.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Education, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: “I don’t know”. These three words used to fill me with absolute dread and helplessness. Not knowing was the epitome of failure; I hadn’t studied enough, or maybe I just wasn’t smart enough. This attitude was ingrained into me by our educational system. I was taught that success equated to how much information I could absorb and regurgitate in one sitting. As I have progressed through secondary and tertiary education and now onto a doctorate, my relationship with education and learning has fundamentally changed. Knowing facts and rigid dogmas is not the pinnacle of intelligence nor does it drive me forward. It is through curiosity, delving into the unknown and finding my own answers, that I have truly begun to learn.

Up until now, the majority of my educational experience was centred around examinations. A few hours of regurgitation, several times a semester was a measure of my aptitude, self-worth, and future employment. To be expected, this evoked a lot of performance anxiety, and my singular drive within education was simply to score highly on tests. Whilst it helped me build a solid foundational knowledge, I did not question what was being taught. My attitude to education was to see it as a series of necessary tasks, not a privilege that would enable me to learn, critically question and ultimately better myself.

Now as a junior researcher, and someone who hasn’t sat an examination in many years (until now), my approach to knowledge and self-education has fundamentally changed. In research, we are expected to take ownership of our own learning and use it to create experiments and resources that will (hopefully) help people in the future. Every day I am faced with questions that I don’t know the answer to and, if it’s a good question, then no one knows the answer. That’s why we test it. In my

opinion, this is the pinnacle of education; using what we’ve learnt to drive our knowledge further into the unknown.

I still don’t know a lot of things, but I have become (mostly) comfortable with this, I’m still learning after all. Whilst the current education system can impart foundational knowledge, it does not reward curiosity. It has taken a long time for me to take ownership of my own learning and embrace the unknown. Imagine if we started teaching it early on.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Compromise, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: There are almost always two diametrically different ways of seeing the same human problem. Our views are rarely unanimous, from simple issues such as who should do the dishes to more complex debates such as the ethical use of stem cells in research. It is through compromise, a settlement that is reached by mutual concessions, that we get what we need. At its best, compromise enables us to preserve our relationships with others whilst ensuring that the needs of all relevant parties are satisfied. However, does this virtue come at the cost of progress?

Compromising comes at the cost of progress. One of the most prominent historical examples of this in medical research is the debate around the use of embryonic stem cells. Whilst these cells represent an invaluable resource to understanding human development and the onset of disease, their origin and the potential for manipulation represents a significant ethical conundrum with the onset of personhood. The scientific community has made many compromises, imposing rigorous restrictions and not utilising the cells to their full potential. Compromise impedes progress. In this case, it not only hinders the scientists investigating novel solutions for treating diseases, but also those waiting for the development of these alternative therapies.

Whilst compromising presents a significant obstacle to progress, it facilitates empathy and the development of novel solutions, thus propelling human ingenuity. When presented with a compromise, we can adapt and overcome. Returning to the example of embryonic stem cells in research. The scientific community has listened to and emphasised with those of the public who disagree with their use. The resulting restrictions presented a challenge to develop alternative ways to study stem cells without the use of embryos. From this, technology was developed to reprogram the patient’s own cells, which not only diverted the ethical dilemma, but this technology is also more applicable to adult disease research. Without compromise and the push for creativity, this ingenious solution may never have come to fruition. Compromise drives us to find alternatives, thus might delay but does not ultimately hinder progress.

Whilst one form of progress may be hindered by compromising, another is likely to be discovered that suits the needs of both parties. In the context of stem cells, compromise has driven us to reach new heights, but at what cost? The resultant delay in knowledge and resources might seem insignificant, but it could mean the difference between a novel therapy now or later. The compromises were made between scientists and those opposed to the research but will mostly likely affect the vulnerable. Compromise has unforeseen consequences that we must try to consider before undertaking it.. ###Response: 65-69


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Leadership, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: Ambitious climbers do not want to stop at the second highest rung, when they can take one more step to see further than the rest. In modern society, this sentiment has translated to an obsession to ascend to leadership positions, creating an arms race where we are only valued for our real or perceived position in the metaphorical ladder. Those who cannot climb high enough can experience a sense of inadequacy whilst those who do reach the top of hierarchy can feel immense pressure to maintain their position. Any mistakes or signs of weakness can dismantle their position, meaning the pressure to attain and maintain leadership can be overwhelming and foster an environment, unconducive of social cohesion.

Since time immemorial, leadership worship has existed in the form of civilians idolising and even mythologising kings and others we deem to be our superiors. By engaging in upward social comparison with those in higher positions, many fervently dreamt of achieving similar status and erroneously equated their self-worth with their socio-economic position. We have only perpetuated the archaic notion that prestige is solely associated with leadership only, meaning being a follower is mutually exclusive to success. This can be observed in modern society, where people are constantly obsessed with their position and endeavour to work longer hours to the detriment of their health, complete extensive education and further training with disregard for their wellbeing in the hope of attaining higher positions in their field. Whilst it is erroneous to discourage a person working towards self-improvement, it is important to not lose perspective and ask at what cost? Proponents of leadership will espouse the message to get ahead in this race, we must climb higher and make more sacrifices than others and only by reaching the top of hierarchy can we achieve self-fulfilment. However, such a mentality is reductive and can be incredibly dangerous. It is well-documented that pressure to succeed in the workplace can lead to a myriad of health, emotional and social problems, ranging from hypertension, depression and social isolation in an attempt to reach the epitome of professional success, known as leadership. The infallible truth is indoctrinating people with the view that the only value is associated with leadership contributes to a plethora of detrimental effects. We must instead focus on meaningful changes in the workplace where people can make contributions at all levels and it is not solely those at the top of the hierarchy who are compensated well for their contribution. This can range from having round table discussions between everyone and encouraging open workspace where leaders do not receive any special privileges, such as private room or company incentives .By also reducing the wage disparity, will allow people to recognise their own value and actively communicating changes within the system based on people’s input will allow everyone's voices to be heard, thus democratising the system.

It is not only those at the bottom who feels immense pressure to reach upward mobility within an organisation, but leaders often experience a range of issues, from Tall Poppy Syndrome to Imposter Syndrome. Individuals at top of hierarchy can incur jealousy from others and can become paranoid by thought of collective sabotage from those below them. Similarly, if a leader does not feel they are adequately deserving of their position, they may experience Imposter Syndrome where they will continuously feel their contribution is lacking and do not align with the expectations of those around them. Furthermore, in our current cultures, it is often the leaders who are burdened with making decisions which has ripple effect on everyone within the company, ranging from business growth to creating new employment opportunities. One wrong decision can topple the whole system, where the leader receives the most blame and can become readily replaced creating an intense pressure. These problems fundamentally stem from the same root, a glorification of leadership leading to a myopic mindset where we perpetuate vertical leadership with clear command and control. Instead, we must focus on horizontal leadership where everyone feels equally able to contribute whilst removing the overwhelming pressure felt by only those at the top. This risk mitigation strategy is also effective as it allows us to utilise the untapped resource of every workers to unleash their potential. The modern employee wants to be accountable for their contribution and do not want to simply act like a mindless drone, following the orders of their leaders. By disestablishing the hierarchical approach where one person makes all the decisions with little input from others, we can cultivate a more productive, less risky workplace.

Nothing is normal until the majority normalises it. Leadership should not be viewed only with a rose-tinted lens that results in individuals pursuing it to the detriment of their own wellbeing. Similarly, once a person reaches this supposed pinnacle of success, they feel they will become expendable due to any mistake, resulting in a range of problems. We must foster bilateral leadership when everyone can provide their viewpoints and such strength in diversity can galvanise necessary changes.. ###Response: 70-74


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Hope, the prompt/s are - Hope never abandons you, you abandon it. and here is the essay: Denounce the Defeatist Attitude

When hope is given, it can alienate fear. This old adage has become highly relevant to contemporary Australian society in regard to the representation of ATSI people. We continue to focus only on the negative statistics pertaining to Australia’s First Nations people, with highly detailed narration about the overrepresentation of ATSI people in prisons or perpetuating the ever-present narrative about the growing socio-economic disparity. However, solely highlighting the negative stories can create a culture of hopelessness for ATSI youth which further continues the circle and creates an environment unconducive of progressive changes. We must encourage positive representation which will provide hope. Hope for a better future, hope for a newer generation of ATSI individuals.

Media cycle is dominated by fear-mongering news, perpetuating a one-sided narrative where ATSI people will always be victims, which can exacerbate the despair within ATSI communities. It is an established fact that data algorithm favours stories which maintains the status quo and individuals often feel compelled to share articles that perpetuates the norm of First Nations people struggles, such as the increase in crime rates within the ATSI community. Although sharing such articles may have a well-meaning intention of raising cultural awareness, in reality it paints a bleak image of the future, where ATSI people will never rise, effectively creating an echo chamber. Within this echo chamber, the same story is repeated with minute iterations whilst suppressing news that accentuates the success and strength of the ATSI community. Thus, ATSI individuals may become more likely to succumb to a tragic fate, turning to a life of crime, believing this is their only reality. This is seen by the disproportionate presence of First Nations people in the justice system and the accompanied high recidivism rates. Instead, our youth needs to know there is hope through positive media representation which in turn creates a positive feedback loop for further growth and progress. This can range from interviews with Indigenous athletes, politicians, doctors and highlighting the fact there is light at the end and that Indigenous people can be empowered. Hope is contagious. There can be a change in the story for the future if we make a conscious effort to educate ourselves of the success and not hyper-focussing on negative stories.

Moreover, public discourse pertaining to ATSI has made Australian society desensitised to their struggles as we have become indoctrinated with the erroneous assumption nothing can be done to empower the ATSI community. This is another flow on effect of the echo chamber as many egregiously believe elevating the ATSI communities is impossible due to the media’s insistence to propagate the narrative that no progress has occurred. As a result, many are oblivious of the fact, there has been a myriad of Indigenous Procurement Policies, with one example being the ‘’Close the Gap’’ initiative. This has resulted in incentivising the employment and retention of ATSI workers, incorporation of culturally appropriate curricula and greater funding in schools to promote engagement. Consequently, there has been an increase in representation of ATSI individuals in professional and educational domain. Nevertheless, it is erroneous to assume we live in a post-racial society where the First Nations people do not face any obstacles, as this can prevent effective assistance being provided. Similarly, just because progress has occurred, thinking ATSI individuals no longer face any difficulties is equally reductive of a complex issue. It is vital to find the balance between acknowledging the hardships whilst also highlighting progress that has occurred. This in turn encourage society to explore newer, robust policies that can further assist the communities as we are more likely to engage in practices when we can see clear, favourable outcomes. We can no longer remain wilfully blind to the fact initiatives to assist ATSI communities need to continue and that progress has occurred, with room for further improvement.

Hope is incredibly effective in facilitating changes. How is it morally permissible to continuously portray the image of a ATSI person as someone who is damaged, who will never escape their trauma to elevate their social status? Although it is important to recognise barriers which hinders opportunity for upward social mobility and the systemic prejudice faced by ATSI individuals but solely focussing on the negative issues can lead to poorer outcomes for ATSI youth. We can no longer perpetuate the harmful cycle of hopelessness which can discourage action-driven changes if people believe it is a lost cause. Denouncing the defeatist attitude needs to be a preeminent priority through sharing positive messages of hope.. ###Response: 70-74


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Fantasy, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: Our wildest fantasies and deepest corners of our imagination reflect what we truly want most in life. Hidden where no one can see, it is an idealistic utopia we escape to. Very few people make their fantasies into realities, but for the minority, it represents the ultimate happiness your mind can conjure up. For many people, this fantasy is a career in medicine, one that is ruthlessly difficult to get into and requires a myriad of hoops to jump and dragons to slay before you get to the white coat in the castle. Stellar academics, an aced interview and the dreaded GAMSAT aptitude test. Aptitude by defintion is an intrinsic trait, something supposedly un-practiceable yet in recent years there has been a rise in preparation companies selling comprehensive packages and a guarantee of the top 5 percentile. Neoliberalism is an economic theory whereby the amount of wealth accrued is positively correlated with the amount of success you have in the society. One of the ways neoliberalism can be achieved is via commodification, the placing of a monetary value on something that would otherwise be free. Companies such as Gold Standard and Fraser's commodify desperate young applicants fantasies and dreams of getting into medicine, by selling them practice for a supposedly un-practiceable test, thus compromising the integrity of the medical entry process.

Due to the increased competitiveness of GAMSAT in recent years, applicants are getting more and more desperate. Companies like Fraser's and Gold Standard ruthlessly advertis, using words like "guarantee" and "get into med first go" to captivate and lure in these students. The students, desperate to gain entry into a medical school, and thus the glory that comes with being in the minority of students that make their fantasies reality, essentially pay whatever it takes to make this dream come true. At times, this price is up to
$5000 for extensive exams and analytics and "insider tips". This is a mass amount that has ultimately made Scott Fraser millions of dollars in profits. The neoliberal values dictate that the more money he accrues, the more successful he will be in a society. An issue arises however with the fact that Fraser is not offering students a guarantee at entering medicine. He is offering them the "opportunitY" to get into medicine. This manipulative phrasing takes advantage of vulnerable students, who at the end of the day have paid $5000 for an opportunity.

An unfortunate fact of the matter is that students who pay for prep courses ultimately do get a better GAMSAT score. By altering the integrity of an aptitude test, prep companies like fraser's are ultimately altering the process of medical entry since wealthier students are given an unfair advantage. This places the fantasies of people with money more likely to come true than people without money, placing the worth of the wealthy above those who are not wealthy. The reality is that if money can buy you your fantasy coming true, then what is the point of having a fantasy. When money can physically buy dreams, it reinforces the neoliberal school of thought that more monetary value truly does make you more powerful and successful. If students who pay for GAMSAT preparation courses ultimatly get into medicine, they then earn the financial security of a doctor and are mroe liekly to be able to afford to send their child to a preparation course who will also go on to earn the financial security of being a doctor. This creates a vicious cycle of inequality, biased against those who could not afford a preparation course for a test that was supposed to be aptitude based in the first place.

The introduction of preparation companies negates the hard work and merit of making your fantasies into a reality. By manipulating desperate young students, million dollar preparation companies are commodifying their fantasies to profit for themselves, and be successful by a neoliberal defintion. This compromises the entire integrity and authenticity of the medical entry process, stipulating that fantasies and aptitude and ultimately a position in medical school can be bought and those who cannot afford to pay the 5 or so grand are worth less than those who can. This reinforces the neoliberalistic ideals, shifting our priortiies to ones of morally grey actions and creates a virtually indestructable cycle of inequity and structural violence. As neoliberalism becomes more and more dominant in our society, the consequences potentially mean that our doctors perhaps are the richest, but not the brightest casting a shadow of doubt regarding our quality of medical professionals in the future.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Technology and Privacy, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: We are currently living in through a technological revolution. The last thirty years have seen the worldwide epidemic of internet fever and today, even the world’s most impoverished areas have access to some sort of technological device. The benefits to advancements is abundant. Increased allocation of resources, efficiency and first and foremost consumer convenience. For the first time in history, buyers can have everything they need delivered to their door all with the touch of a button. The company’s need to constantly one up each other to keep consumers interested has now reached such a high that it has created a moral grey area. As incredible as it is, the trade-off for user convenience is privacy. In a neoliberal society where economic wealth is equal to success, tech companies are scrambling to appease the consumer. In 2020 at such an advanced level of technology, this means manipulating users, potentially even violating their freedom.

When we browse online, the internet collects ‘cookies’. Cookies are bits of data that is stored in our own personal vault that is said to enhance user experience. When a wordy document crosses our screen asking if we consent to our cookies being stored, we hurriedly accept. In the eyes of the consumer, this is like letting the staff og the bank enter our vault, and that’s alright, because they need entry in order to be able to do their jobs. First party cookies are used in this way, to keep us logged into social media accounts or remember that English is our language preference. The moral grey area occurs when these websites sell our cookies to third parties. Technically we gave permission to the bank staff to enter our vault, but now he is selling our stuff to earn money for himself without our knowing. In this way, companies such as Facebook and Google are allowing other companies to take a peek at our information, information which is then used for targeted advertising. For example, if I search for leggings on line, I might suddenly find myself seeing advertisements for local yoga studios.

The idea of cookies being used has existed for a long time without the knowledge of the users. A combination of company thirst to stay competitive in the market mixed with user naivety has created a serious breach in privacy. Due to the more public nature of the demand for tech company accountability, users are becoming more aware of the problem.
What was once not really understood is now akin to an overt breech in privacy such as breaking into someone’s house without them knowing. As user demand changes, companies try to appease them to prevent collapse in demand. In late January, Google announced that they would be phasing out cookies in an attempt to restore user privacy. While a noble gesture – one that has been met with praise from users – what is not understood is that since these internet platforms are free for users, company revenue comes from third party advertisements. By taking away third part cookies, Google can no longer earn money from potential advertisers, increasing the cost of the business, a cost which may be potentially pushed onto users.

Since the rise of technology has climaxed, user privacy has been called into question. As users become more aware and educated on the way cookies work, it is important to realise that with the storing of cookies comes enhanced user experience and a free cost. While some users value their privacy more, they need to be asking themselves “can we afford the price of privacy”.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Privelige, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: Good governance is certainly a topic of contention at the moment; people are finding it more important to pay attention to the news now than ever before. In a time when the world is rapidly changing, people are suffering, and state laws are constantly updating, it is vital that those in power are doing their job, and it is vital that the people they are leading are remaining informed. A healthy, functioning society is therefore a two way street: the government has a responsibility to serve the people it governs, and the people within them have a responsibility to stay updated.

The government has a hand in so much of daily life. The unseen laws (written, and unwritten) that govern society are written and enforced, with the purpose of maintaining order, and with the populace's best interests in mind. This is evident in road rules. The high numbers of motor vehicle related deaths have been identified as a problem, and so laws requiring seatbelts, traffic lights, and prohibiting driving under the influence have been implemented to address this. Beyond laws, state-enforced health promotion campaigns such as "keep your hand off it" help to increase awareness and prevent risk behaviours. These initiatives have been implemented by government (at both federal and state levels) for both the safety of people, and to keep order on the roads. Other government initiatives in infrastructure, education and healthcare also influence daily life, whether we recognise it or not. Upon being voted into power (in democratic systems), there is therefore the obligation to serve the people as promised, and to their best interests, and it is important that this is maintained.

Despite the hand of the government in our everyday, it is often easy to ignore their influence. It is often easy to turn a blind eye to anything mildly related to "politics": it is easy to turn down the radio, turn off the news and ignore the headlines. But this ignorance can be dangerous. The news has recently circulated stories of racially charged attacks on black men such as Aumard Arbery and Christian Cooper, and it is easy for the viewer to look away. But to do so would make the audience complicit in the act - witnessing injustice without action or calling for change is almost just as deadly, and "virtue signalling", or trivially sharing the story online to seem "woke" is just as unhealthy. No, society must call on its authorities and call for change, to prevent such atrocities to occur again. Similarly, it is easy to ignore the realities of other countries struggling with the fallout of high COVID-19 fatalities, when Australia has dealth with it so effectively, but it would be foolish to pretend that we are immune to it also (for this is exactly what happened when the virus broke out in Wuhan, China: America, for example, looked on without action. It was only three months after the initial outbreak in March that restrictions were called for, and by this time, the virus had already landed on American shores). And so, it is clear that remaining informed is part of our common duty as a global citizen, to call on our governments when we see injustice, and to hold them accountable when we feel they are failing us.

It is therefore clear that society requires a unifying body of authority, in the form of government. But while they are responsible for implementing practices that keep its people safe, it is also the duty of the citizens to remain informed and to keep government accountable where they may be lacking. At the end of the day, despite our geographical, policial or social differences, we are all human. We all share a common goal for a healthy, functioning society that cares for its people.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Happiness and Work Ethic, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: "IT'S 5AM, I'M UP. ARE YOU?"
There's a guy on Instagram - former Marines serviceman, now motivational and military coach - who's posts are characterised by black and white images of a clock reading "5:00am" alongside aggressive capitalised captions instilling encouragement and motivation into the viewer. Or at least, they're supposed to stir the viewer to action.
Working out at the crack of dawn sort of action. While I could debate the effectiveness of this approach and how the audience's response varies from person to person, I think there's something else worth outlining here: this is one little example of what we have come to know as "hustle culture".

Hustle culture is a term to describe the entrepreneurial bloggers, young professionals and multi-hyphenate 20-somethings who find an identity in producing product 24/7, where every action of their day should contribute to their business. What might have started as a joking "we stay grinding bro" (colloquial) has evolved into a toxic behaviour where productivity is valued above all else. These people wake up at 5am, idolise high profile persons such as Tim Ferriss or Gary Vee (to the point of copying their daily routines to the iota), while also managing to share this all online (whether or not this is fuelled by a need for validation and presenting an image of success is a conversation for another time).
There are certainly merits to prioritising productivity, but this corner of the Internet only emphasises the effects of capitalism: we, as people, are valued only when we are producing something that can make us money; we are only valuable when we are working.

While this paints a very generalised brush over such a large group of (mostly well- intentioned people), such a "workaholic" approach can be very unhealthy. Most prominent is the blatant disregard it places on people, as people - there is little emphasis for wellbeing or relationship (unless it has been scheduled into the weekly calendar). And pushing for high volumes of productivity as such an anxiety-riddled time as this is frankly irresponsible. Promiting such a lifestyle places undue pressure on people, without allowing breathing room for feeling emotions.

The uncertainty of the current quarantine climate has forced many employees into being furloughed. The consequent financial stresses, on top of the the general tension and fear that comes with a (sometimes politicised) global pandemic, has resulted in a collective feeling of uncertainty. In such a time, productivity is the wrong actions to call for.

There are merits to staying busy - as someone who likes to busy myself, I'm trying to view the extra time at home as an opportunity to pursue various crafts and hobbies that I've always wanted to: I've dusted off the sewing machine, I've finally started working at the accumulating books on the shelf, I've learnt how to make pasta. I've always enjoyed trying new things - the cabinet downstairs features trophies from volleyball, dancing, karate. The sunroom holds a piano, three guitars, two bass guitars, a keyboard and a clarinet. The adage, jack of all trades, master of none, comes to mind.

But now, eight (ten? twelve?) months into social isolation, I too am growing restless. I'm recognise that I am lucky to remain sheltered, happy and employed, but I realise that people are at different stages. One of the lessons I've learnt in recent years is that everyone has a story to tell, and people deserve the complexity and nuance of being human, and all the messy emotion that it brings.

There is a global pandemic raging outside my doorstep, and the world is collectively on pause. No one is bounding ahead of everyone, and it is important to acknowledge each other's feelings. We should not use this time to judge others - for we all cope and process situations in different ways. Above all, we should not lose our humanity. I truly believe balance is the key to everything - it is the reason that I maintained sports and music and other extracurriculars alongside my education. We should not hold each other to ridiculous standards (in the productivity sphere or otherwise). Rather, we should view each other as humans, and take the time to listen and care for each other. Taking the time to call loved ones and check in on each other might be more productive than we think.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Humour, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: To explore the matter of humour, one should ponder on the essence of what makes a subject, remark or statement humorous. We laugh for a myriad of reasons; to please those around us, to express an emotional response to a situation, to create a change in the world, to conceal fear or to stand bravely in the face of our troubles, fears and and misery. But amidst all the aformentioned forms of expressing oneself, one notices the way our condition is exerting effort to try and survive in an ever harsh reality; the reality of our existence.

One could contend that laughter is a major cause of misunderstanding. In the various interactions we have in daily life, our nature arguably contains a sense of hypocrisy; we act contrary to how we feel. But that is a survival instinct, and a dangerous one at that. Consider one who is subtly insulted on the way they carry themself. One could show vehemence at the situation and reveal their sense of rage or sadness, ask why the person directed such a remark at them, but the smarter choice as most of us learn in our journey to adulthood is to 'laugh it off'; simply laugh along with the crowd. With an objective look into the other person's mind, however, we may find that they meant no harm, perhaps they were trying to engage in conversation, form a closer bond. Following this line of thought, the person may interpret the laughter of the other person as a sign of acceptance, that they indeed are growing closer to one another. Here misunderstanding is bred, strong feelings are concealed under the facade of laughter. We learn on the journey of life through experience to conceal certain feelings and show outwardly otherwise, but perhaps in some instances expressing onself trumps laughter.

Then again, in many instances, laughter may be the better option. One laughs at oneself, at the misfortune riddled in their fortune is one who has has a different, brighter outlook on life. The philosophies of Kikergaard were founded on laughter; 'I opened my eyes, looked at the world and laughed, laughed at how courtesy was to say thank you after a meal, how love is to get married, how one has to get a good career'. Laughter is therefore a way to ridicule our fragile existence. One has to utilize the emotional response that is laughter to rationalise the world around them. Instead of succumbing to despair, and lamenting over the minute irritants of daily life, the social norms we have to adhere to, the loss of career, the break of relationship, a stronger response as Kiekergaard would agree, is to laugh at it and despite it.

Laughter may indeed be, in many instances, a show of one's joy. But in awkward and displeasing situations, its an action of avoidance. Such avoidance gives rise, in the long run, to feelings of hatred. And so it may be wiser to suppress such laughter and to express onself's thoughts and desires. Laughter is better utilized as a instrument of reflection, an instrument of coping with the mystery of our being; one that gives the mind a nudge to continue despite the struggles and miseries. Thus before one expresses a sense of humor and elation, one should reflect on the consequences.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is The Usefulness of History, the prompt/s are UNKNOWN and here is the essay: In schools, history lessons are not communicated to us as reflecting the nature of our being, but rather experiences of people who seem to have lived in the distant past, and who contribute little to our present life. Upon reflection however, one may discover that the pas is more intimate to us if viewed through a different lens; a lens that magnifies the nature of our condition.

History conveys to us the peaks and troughs to which all eras are arguably inevitably prone to. Take for instance the common perception that certain aspects of modern times are corrupt beyond repair; the totalitarian governments, the wicked politicians, the raging racism and the bickering between nations. Now a common man would lament on the state of the present. One may have been taught of the myriad of wars and conflicts that ravaged past societies; but have we thought of utilizing the past to deduce to make sense of the present? The philosopher Hegel proposed, through the study of history, that progress constitute of a ‘thesis’ and an ‘antithesis’, both of which eventually find a point of ‘synthesis’. Progress is never linear, as Hegel would say. The Athenian society were proponents of free thought but they lacked in the area of discipline and organisation. The Persians were well-versed on discipline and were therefore able to conquer the Athenians on the battlefield. Yet, the Persians were dispotic enemies of free thought, which with time became its own liability. Only after a period of time was the point of ‘synthesis’ found in the form of the Roman empire. The crux of the matter is: history viewed through this lens changes our perceptions of the present. We are merely, as Hegel would agree, in a point of anti-thesis that has not yet reached a synthesis.

Narrowing down the scale of things, one may find that history’s utility may lie not just in its application to world peace and justice, but in our daily lives. From the lives of others, one learns to better travail through their own. Consider Hobbes’ philosophical perspective on the ‘state of nature’; a state where humans in bear skin pre civilisation times beat one another with tools, and lived a life that was ‘nasty, brutish and short’. We possess animalistic instincts just as well as the rational mind. The spirited portion of the ‘tripartite soul’ that Plato assigned us all is capable of transforming a paradise into a hellish existence. And so the line of though follows that, upon learning of the state of our ancestors, who weren’t gifted the chance to reflect on the experiences of other human creatures, one may consider controlling their anger, lust, greed and jealousy. With the wealth of history at our hands, one may learn to distinguish the right from wrong, the evil from the good, and the fulfilling from the miserable.

History is not a simple study subject. Our approach to history should be transformed to a philosophical exploration. Why should we not learn from the wealth of the experiences at our hand when humans in the past may have wished to find such direction? As one flips through the pages of the past, we learn more about the nature of our condition, the infirmities we are born with, the emotions that ravage through our lives, the actions that lead to harsh consequences and the key to pave a way riddled, not with misfortune, but with fulfilling our higher needs. We need not only pursue materialistic possessions that quench the thirst and fill the hunger, but aim to achieve a calm and peaceful state of mind. In the process, we may find ourselves entangled in the ‘antithesis’, but as Hegel would assure us, there
eventually will be a point of ‘synthesis’.. ###Response: 75-79


###Instruction: You are an essay marker for the GAMSAT Section II. Please mark the following essay fairly and consistently. ###Input: The theme is Gossip, the prompt/s are - Whoever gossips to you, will gossip of you and here is the essay: Oscar Wilde once quipped “There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.” In essence, Wilde was correct in proposing that while our human nature is programmed to dislike the idea of being spoken about behind our backs, it is a crucial element of our lives. This is evident in multiple facets throughout the progression of our lives. Firstly, during our youth and early adulthood, we are absorbed by gossip which forms a critical part of selling goods. Secondly, during our adult life, where nepotism and positive recommendations are valuable in career progression. And lastly, in our elderly years where we are aware that gossip exists, however, we care less about it.
Gossip has been a prominent social tool since the beginning of human cognition, and it will continue for generations to come which highlights the importance of understanding its prominent role in society.

Gossip and rumours form a significant portion of our early social interactions. The act of gossiping is inescapable in today’s society when we consider all of the technology, journalism and marketing schemes which we are continuously exposed to. For example, an American study has concluded that we are exposed to at least ten thousand advertisements daily, many of which we are consciously unaware of. Large corporations invest millions of dollars into marketing campaigns yearly and gossip is a free form of marketing which is created through making products desirable to certain demographics, often young individuals which are generally easier to convinced that they need a certain product.
Therefore, it is evident that from a marketing perspective that the worst possible situation is not that products are being gossiped about, but that they are not.

Gossip forms a very crucial role in our working lives and in our career progression. In order to attain bonuses and promotions in our careers, we often need to be recognised for our work. In this sense, we often advertise ourselves and gossip about our own work to other influential people in corporations who have close connections to higher individuals with more power. If our name and hard work gets circulated to the right people, we have a much better chance of attaining the promotions and bonus we all look forward to. Also, in the case of nepotism when we use our family name or connections to attain better positions, we rely on gossiping in order to be connected with the right people. In this sense, it is evident that gossiping is a crucial part of career progression and our professional development.

During our elderly years we are well-aware of the way in which society operates and that gossip is becoming an even more prominent aspect of our daily lives. The majority of the people who are reaching the end of their earthly lives have become accustomed and desensitised to the impact of gossip on their own lives. Their priorities shift from being absorbed in the business of other people to caring for themselves and enjoying the final years that they have on Earth. They often serve as exemplary individuals of how to live life due to their unmatched experience. The focus that the elderly place on human interaction, togetherness, time with family and friends and enjoying the smaller things in life should serve as a blatant reminder for all of us that gossiping and material wealth will never make us rich at heart.

In closing, it is evident that Wilde was correct in proposing that it is much worse to be unnoticed and forgotten than to be gossiped about. This is evident in our youth where we are constantly at the mercy of marketing campaigns which heavily rely on gossiping and the spread of information in order to sell products. Also, during our adult life where career progression, attaining bonuses and nepotism all require gossip in order to thrive. And lastly, in our elderly years when we are actively conscious of the role of gossiping in society but choose to refocus our energy and time on the more important aspects of life like spending time with loved ones. Through the progression of our lives we understand the lessening importance of gossip as we get older, however, we should all attempt to recognise that aimless gossiping will not advance us in any positive way no matter our age.. ###Response: 75-79