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Paragraph Summary Questions
26. The passage given below is followed by four summaries. Choose the option that best captures the author’s position. Both Socrates and Bacon were very good at asking useful questions. In fact, Socrates is largely credited with coming up with a way of asking questions. The ‘Socratic method,’ which itself is at the core of the 'scientific method’ was popularised by Bacon. The Socratic method disproves arguments by finding exceptions to them, and can therefore lead your opponent to a point where they admit something that contradicts their original position. In common with Socrates, Bacon stressed it was as important to disprove a theory as it was to prove one - and real-world observation and experimentation were key to achieving both aims. Bacon also saw science as a collaborative affair, with scientists working together, challenging each other. A. Both Socrates and Bacon advocated clever questioning of the opponents to disprove their arguments and theories. B. Both Socrates and Bacon advocated challenging arguments and theories by observation and experimentation. C. Both Socrates and Bacon advocated confirming arguments and theories by finding exceptions. D. Both Socrates and Bacon advocated examining arguments and theories from both sides to prove them.
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Option A implies that Socrates and Bacon approached questioning as a means to only disprove their arguments and theories – which is incorrect because the author also states that “In common with Socrates, Bacon stressed it was as important to disprove a theory as it was to prove one”.
The passage mentions that “the Socratic method disproves arguments by finding exceptions to them, and can therefore lead your opponent to a point where they admit something that contradicts their original position” – not just by observation and experimentation. Hence Option B can be eliminated.
Option C only suggests confirming of arguments and theories, and not about disproving them. Hence Option C can be eliminated too.
Option D captures the essence of the passage. Both Socrates and Bacon stressed on achieving both the aims – proving and disproving arguments and theories. Hence Option D is correct.
Word 1: Credited
Context:
"Both Socrates and Bacon were very good at asking useful questions. In fact, Socrates is largely credited with coming up with a way of asking questions" - Educational Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Credited" is used when someone is acknowledged or recognized for doing something or contributing to an idea or action. In this case, Socrates is said to be the one responsible for creating a specific method of asking questions (the Socratic Method), and therefore he is "credited" with that contribution. This word reflects recognition, often formal or widely accepted, for an achievement or role played by someone.
Meaning: Recognized or acknowledged as the source of something (Verb - past participle of "credit")
Pronunciation: KREH-di-tid
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin "creditum" meaning “a loan, trust,” derived from "credere" meaning “to believe or trust.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
To "credit" someone is to give them intellectual or moral recognition. In academic writing and historical references, this word is critical—it tells us who we believe started or contributed to an idea, even if the origin is debated.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: acknowledged, recognized, attributed, honored, cited
Antonyms: ignored, discredited, denied, doubted
Usage Examples:
- Marie Curie is credited with discovering radium and polonium.
- The director is credited for the film's artistic vision.
- She was credited with saving the company from bankruptcy.
- He credited his success to years of hard work and discipline.
Cultural Reference:
"Leonardo da Vinci is often credited with conceptualizing flying machines centuries before modern aviation." - History of Invention
Think About It:
Is being credited for an idea more important than actually contributing to it?
Quick Activity:
Write three things you’ve done recently that you think deserve to be credited. How would you explain each to someone?
Memory Tip:
Think “credit = credibility” — when someone is credited, they’re believed to be the source, just like someone with credibility is trusted.
Real-World Application:
"Credited" is a word often seen in education, scientific writing, films, and journalism. It helps us understand who should receive acknowledgment and why, which is crucial for fairness and accuracy.
Word 2: Method
Context:
"The ‘Socratic method,’ which itself is at the core of the 'scientific method’ was popularised by Bacon." - Educational Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "method" refers to a structured or systematic way of doing something. In this context, both the "Socratic method" and the "scientific method" are formal approaches to acquiring knowledge—one through questioning and dialogue, and the other through observation and experimentation. A method is more than just a habit or style; it’s a repeatable, organized process that is often used to solve problems or investigate ideas.
Meaning: A systematic or structured way of doing something (Noun)
Pronunciation: MEH-thuhd
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Greek "methodos," meaning "pursuit" or "way of inquiry," formed from "meta" (after) and "hodos" (way).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Method” is a fundamental word in all academic and professional settings. A clear method makes thinking visible. Whether you're solving math problems or conducting scientific research, the method ensures that your approach is repeatable and logical.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: procedure, approach, technique, system, process
Antonyms: randomness, chaos, disorganization, guesswork
Usage Examples:
- The scientific method begins with observation and ends with conclusions based on evidence.
- The teacher introduced a new method for solving algebraic equations.
- Cooking becomes easier when you follow a reliable method.
- His method of learning involves breaking down the material into small, manageable parts.
Cultural Reference:
"Stanislavski’s method acting revolutionized performance by encouraging actors to deeply embody their characters." - Theatre Studies
Think About It:
Can a method be considered successful if it doesn't work for everyone but works extremely well for a few?
Quick Activity:
Describe a method you use daily (e.g., studying, organizing tasks, cooking). Break it down into 3–4 clear steps.
Memory Tip:
Think of “method” as “math + head” — using your head in an organized way, just like in solving math problems.
Real-World Application:
"Method" is essential in academics, professional tasks, scientific research, and even everyday routines. Understanding and applying methods leads to better efficiency, clarity, and reproducibility.
Word 3: Contradicts
Context:
"The Socratic method disproves arguments by finding exceptions to them, and can therefore lead your opponent to a point where they admit something that contradicts their original position" - Educational Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "contradicts" refers to saying or doing something that is in direct opposition to another idea, claim, or statement. In this context, it means the opponent ends up admitting something that goes against their earlier argument. Contradictions highlight logical flaws and inconsistencies in reasoning, which is why they are central to the Socratic method—a technique built on asking questions that reveal hidden contradictions.
Meaning: To be in conflict with or go against something stated earlier (Verb)
Pronunciation: kon-truh-DIKTS
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "contradictus", past participle of "contradicere" meaning "to speak against" ("contra" = against, "dicere" = to speak)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
When an idea or claim is contradicted, its credibility is questioned. Contradictions are not always negative—they often help refine thoughts and lead to clearer understanding. Use this word to spot inconsistencies in debates, essays, or arguments.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: oppose, challenge, refute, disprove, conflict with
Antonyms: confirm, support, validate, agree with, reinforce
Usage Examples:
- Her actions contradict her earlier promises.
- The new evidence contradicts the witness's statement.
- He made a claim that directly contradicts established facts.
- The two reports contradict each other on key points.
Cultural Reference:
"The famous quote 'I never said most of the things I said'—often attributed to Yogi Berra—humorously contradicts itself." - Sports Humor
Think About It:
How do contradictions help us refine our beliefs—and should we fear or embrace them in learning?
Quick Activity:
Write two short statements that contradict each other. Then explain which one you agree with and why.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Contra” = against + “dict” = speak → To contradict is to “speak against” what was previously said.
Real-World Application:
In critical thinking, debate, law, and journalism, being able to identify what contradicts earlier evidence or claims is essential for uncovering truth and avoiding logical fallacies.
Word 4: Observation
Context:
"In common with Socrates, Bacon stressed it was as important to disprove a theory as it was to prove one – and real-world observation and experimentation were key to achieving both aims" - Educational Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Observation" refers to the act of noticing, watching, or examining something carefully, often to gather information or evidence. In this context, it’s used to describe how thinkers like Socrates and Bacon emphasized the importance of directly engaging with the real world—not just theorizing, but actually observing phenomena to support or challenge ideas. Observation is a cornerstone of the scientific method and of any rational, inquiry-based thinking process.
Meaning: The act of closely watching or examining something to gain information (Noun)
Pronunciation: ob-zer-VAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin "observatio", from "observare" meaning “to watch, to notice.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Observation is not passive. It is an active, intentional process of gathering evidence. Whether in science, writing, or everyday life, sharper observation skills lead to better understanding and stronger conclusions. Train yourself to observe deeply and reflect critically.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: examination, scrutiny, attention, study, analysis
Antonyms: neglect, disregard, inattention, ignorance
Usage Examples:
- The scientist made a key discovery through careful observation of animal behavior.
- Her powers of observation make her a great detective.
- Accurate observation is crucial during any experiment.
- They learned about cultural differences through direct observation, not just books.
Cultural Reference:
"Sherlock Holmes’s legendary skills stem not from magic, but from razor-sharp observation." - Literary Reference
Think About It:
What have you learned simply by observing instead of asking or being told?
Quick Activity:
Spend five minutes observing a nearby object or place. Write down five things you noticed that you hadn’t paid attention to before.
Memory Tip:
Observation begins with “observe” — imagine using your eyes like a magnifying glass to really "see" things clearly.
Real-World Application:
Observation is essential in science, journalism, medicine, law enforcement, and education. In everyday life, becoming more observant can help with emotional intelligence, safety, learning, and creativity.
Word 5: Collaborative
Context:
"Bacon also saw science as a collaborative affair, with scientists working together, challenging each other." - Educational Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Collaborative" describes an activity or process in which people work jointly to achieve a common goal. In this context, it refers to Francis Bacon’s belief that science should not be a solitary pursuit, but one where scientists cooperate, critique, and build on each other’s work. Collaboration adds multiple perspectives, leading to more refined, accurate, and well-rounded outcomes—whether in research, business, or creative work.
Meaning: Involving two or more people working together to achieve something (Adjective)
Pronunciation: kuh-LAB-uh-ruh-tiv
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin "collaborare" meaning “to work together” ("com" = together + "laborare" = to work)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Collaboration is at the heart of progress. In any intellectual or creative field, working with others leads to faster innovation, deeper insights, and better solutions. The word “collaborative” is a signal of teamwork, mutual respect, and shared effort.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: cooperative, joint, shared, mutual, team-based
Antonyms: individual, competitive, solitary, independent, isolated
Usage Examples:
- The project was a collaborative effort between engineers and designers.
- Good classroom environments promote collaborative learning.
- The film was made through a collaborative process involving multiple studios.
- In the workplace, collaborative tools like shared documents improve productivity.
Cultural Reference:
"Wikipedia is a prime example of a collaborative knowledge-building platform, where people from all over the world contribute." - Internet Culture
Think About It:
Why do you think some people find collaboration challenging, even when it leads to better results?
Quick Activity:
List one collaborative project you've worked on. Identify two things that went well and one challenge you faced during the teamwork.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: “Co-” means together, and “labor” means work—so "collaborative" literally means working together.
Real-World Application:
“Collaborative” is widely used in education, science, business, and technology. From Google Docs to team sports, the word captures how shared effort leads to greater innovation and success.
