Competition Overview
Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition
The spirit of the Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition lies in encouraging critical thinking and the exploration of thought-provoking, and often controversial, topics. Covering a wide spectrum of subjects, the competition invites participants to engage deeply with issues ranging from historical and current challenges to speculative future scenarios. Participants are encouraged to critically analyze the multifaceted nature of these topics, considering their implications while challenging established norms and beliefs.
The competition promotes intellectual exploration and offers participants the chance to envision alternative futures, explore the consequences of emerging technologies, and reevaluate enduring traditions. Its ultimate goal is to provide a platform where students and scholars can share their perspectives on pressing issues, fostering innovative solutions and broadening our collective understanding of contemporary challenges.
Competition Topic 2025
Each category offers a set of questions each year.
Animal Rights and Society
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Should we prioritize animal rights to the extent that we eliminate all forms of animal agriculture?
Space Exploration and Governance
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What should we do to prepare for the era of space colonization?
Public Health
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Is it ethical to force individuals to be vaccinated for the greater good, or does this violate personal autonomy and bodily rights?
Freedom and Accountability
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Is the concept of “cancel culture” a legitimate way to hold individuals accountable, or does it stifle free expression and promote intolerance?
Biotechonology
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Is genetic modification a valuable bioengineering tool or an unethical way to change our natural world?
Laws and Society
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Should all drugs be legalized, and would such a policy lead to a more just and healthier society?
Technology and Ethics
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How can we deal with algorithmic bias and opacity?
Economics and Globalization
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Is globalization good for the world?
Requirements
Word Limit
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Maximum 2000 words (excludes footnotes and bibliography.
File Format
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Submitted in PDF format.
Blind Review
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Please remove name, affiliation, or any personal information to ensure a blind review.
Layout
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Use a consistent font format.
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1.5 spacing.
Citation
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The format of citation for this competition is MLA 8.
Prizes
Gold
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10 Global Recipients.
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150 USD Cash Award, 500 USD CCIR Academy scholarship, digital award certificate, invitation for a feature interview on CCIR podcast and website, invitation to the Award Ceremony and Dinner at the University of Cambridge (free of charge).
Silver
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10 Global Recipients.
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100 USD Cash Award, 300 USD CCIR Academy scholarship, digital award certificate, invitation for a feature interview on CCIR podcast and website, invitation to the Award Ceremony and Dinner at the University of Cambridge (free of charge).
Bronze
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10 Global Recipients.
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50 USD Cash Award, 200 USD CCIR Academy scholarship, digital award certificate, invitation for a feature interview on CCIR podcast and website, invitation to the Award Ceremony and Dinner at the University of Cambridge (free of charge).