Competition is a common phenomenon in our society . We compete when we play games, we try to do better than others in our study, and there is constant competition for jobs, fame, wealth and so forth. Therefore,we can say that, in a certain sense, competition is one of the motive forces of the development of our modern society.

It is often believed, that competition and cooperation are in opposition to each other. Some people stress competition, without which, in their eyes, there is no responsibility, no drive and ultimately, no progress. Others advocate cooperation whatever they do. They are of the opinion that the dependence of people on one another has increased, without which the society we live in can not keep going smoothly. In reality, we find that in many cases competition goes hand in hand with cooperation. Lets take a football game for example. During the game, one team is competing against the other, but each member of the team must cooperate with his teammates. Otherwise, they would lose the game no matter how skillful each individual player might be. It is clear that competition has much to do with cooperation.

As far as I'm concerned, I do not agree with the view that competition and cooperation are always in conflict with each other. In my opinion, while advocating competition, we should never forget cooperation. In our social life, cooperation is especially necessary because most work is fulfilled with or through other people. So I've come to the conclusion that competition and cooperation are equally important.

Notes：
1. phenomenon 现象
But their so-called prosperity is only a temporary phenomenon.
但他们所谓的繁荣只是一个暂时的现象。
International terrorism is not just a recent phenomenon.
国际恐怖主义并不是近年才有的现象。

2. motive 动机,目的
Can we assign jealousy as the motive for the crime?
我们能否确定这一犯罪动机是出於嫉妒?
Her prime motive was personal ambition.
她的主要动机是为了实现个人的志向.

3. ultimately 最后,最终
His rashness led ultimately to his ruin.
他的急燥卤莽最终导致了他的毁灭。
Every value they created ultimately redounded to his boss.
他们创造的价值最后全进了他们老板的腰包。

4. advocate 主张,提倡
I don't really believe in capital punishment, I'm just playing the devil's advocate.
我并非真正主张应该有死刑, 只是故意唱唱反调罢了.
He advocates reducing military spending.
他主张削减军费开支。