The 2026 competition
Choose one question from one category. We are interested in your reasoning, not in a predetermined conclusion.
Examine how tools reshape human judgment, responsibility, power, and the choices societies make.
When does a tool become a decision-maker, and who should answer for its mistakes?
Does technological progress make societies more equal, or simply change who holds power?
Should a machine ever be allowed to make a choice that a human may not override?
Build a precise argument about truth, responsibility, identity, and our obligations to others.
If a belief makes a person better but is false, is it better to keep it?
Can a person be responsible for becoming who they are?
Do we owe more to people who exist now than to people who may exist in the future?
Question the assumptions behind incentives, fairness, markets, and public policy.
Is inequality a problem in itself, or only when it limits opportunity?
When, if ever, should a government protect an industry from competition?
Does paying people for socially useful behaviour make that behaviour less virtuous?
Investigate how institutions, culture, and group life shape what individuals can choose.
Do social media platforms create communities, or only audiences?
Is meritocracy a fair ideal in an unequal society?
When does a private choice become a public concern?
Entry rules
1,500–2,000 words in English, excluding footnotes and bibliography. Submit one text-searchable PDF, no larger than 10 MB, and remove your name, school, and other identifying details from the file.
All work must be original. Generative AI may not be used to research, draft, rewrite, translate, or edit the essay. Cite sources using Chicago Notes and Bibliography, 17th edition. Ordinary non-generative spellcheck is permitted.
$20 USD by Stripe card checkout or ¥140 RMB by verified Alipay/WeChat transfer. Fees are non-refundable after an essay is submitted, except if the competition is cancelled by the organiser.
Formatting checklist
Use a readable 11- or 12-point font, 1.5 or double spacing, page numbers, and standard A4 or US Letter margins. The essay title may appear on the first page, but the student’s name, school, city, email, and acknowledgements must not appear anywhere in the PDF.
Footnotes should contain citations rather than extended argument. Include a bibliography at the end. Essays that exceed 2,000 words, contain identifying details, or cannot be opened may be ruled ineligible.
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