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Question 20
The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
For nearly a century most psychologists have embraced one view of intelligence. Individuals are born with more or less intelligence potential (I.Q.); this potential is heavily influenced by heredity and difficult to alter; experts in measurement can determine a person’s intelligence early in life, currently from paper-and-pencil measures, perhaps eventually from examining the brain in action or even scrutinizing his/her genome. Recently, criticism of this conventional wisdom has mounted. Biologists ask if speaking of a single entity called “intelligence” is coherent and question the validity of measures used to estimate heritability of a trait in humans, who, unlike plants or animals, are not conceived and bred under controlled conditions.
A. Biologists have questioned the long-standing view that ‘intelligence’ is a single entity and the attempts to estimate it's heritability.
B. Biologists have criticised that conventional wisdom that individuals are born with more or less intelligence potential.
C. Biologists have started questioning psychologists' view of 'intelligence' as a measurable immutable characteristic of an individual.
D. Biologists have questioned the view that ‘intelligence’ is a single entity and the ways in which what is inherited
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit: The crux of the passage lies in challenging a long-standing view held primarily by psychologists—that intelligence is a quantifiable, unchanging attribute heavily influenced by genetic factors. This viewpoint is increasingly coming under scrutiny from biologists for two pivotal reasons.Firstly, biologists question the entrenched belief that intelligence is an immutable, measurable entity. Secondly, there is skepticism regarding the assertion that intelligence is predominantly hereditary, especially because humans are not subjected to controlled breeding environments like plants or animals.
With these two critical aspects in mind, Option A emerges as the most fitting answer since it encapsulates both these key elements effectively.
As for Option B, it falls short because it labels the widespread psychological perspective as 'conventional wisdom,' which isn't an accurate reflection. Moreover, it fails to acknowledge the second part of the argument concerning the hereditary nature of intelligence.
Option C, though closely aligned with the main argument, unfortunately omits the second half of the discussion, thus making it incomplete.
Option D, while seemingly encompassing both points, is less precise and somewhat ambiguous. The phrase "ways in which what is inherited" is notably confusing and unclear.
Therefore, when compared side-by-side, Option A proves to be a more accurate and comprehensive reflection of the passage's key arguments, making it the superior choice.
Word 1: Intelligence
Context:
"For nearly a century most psychologists have embraced one view of intelligence. Individuals are born with more or less intelligence potential." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Intelligence” refers to the capacity to acquire and apply knowledge, reason logically, solve problems, and adapt to new situations. It's a broad concept that can include emotional, analytical, creative, and practical abilities. In the context provided, intelligence is discussed as an inherent trait—something individuals are born with. However, modern psychology also explores how intelligence can be shaped and developed over time through learning and environment.
Meaning: The ability to learn, understand, and apply knowledge and skills (Noun)
Pronunciation: in-TEL-uh-juhns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin “intelligentia,” from “intelligere” — to understand, perceive, or discern.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Remember that intelligence isn't just academic. Emotional, social, and creative intelligence are equally important. Intelligence is not fixed—effort and strategy play a big role in developing it. Keep challenging your brain!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: intellect, understanding, reasoning, aptitude, brainpower
Antonyms: ignorance, stupidity, dullness, ineptitude
Usage Examples:
- Her intelligence and curiosity made her a top student in her class.
- The exam measured various aspects of verbal and mathematical intelligence.
- He showed emotional intelligence by understanding and managing his friend's stress.
- Artificial intelligence is transforming the way businesses operate.
Cultural Reference:
"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination." — Albert Einstein
Think About It:
Do you believe intelligence is something we are born with or something we can develop over time? Why?
Quick Activity:
Write down three areas where you consider yourself intelligent and one area where you'd like to grow. Set a simple goal for improvement.
Memory Tip:
Think of “intelligence” as your “internal GPS”—it helps you navigate learning, decisions, and challenges in life.
Real-World Application:
Intelligence influences academic success, workplace performance, emotional well-being, and how we adapt to life’s challenges. Recognizing different forms of intelligence helps us value diverse talents.
Word 2: Heredity
Context:
"This potential is heavily influenced by heredity and difficult to alter." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Heredity” refers to the biological process by which traits and characteristics are passed from parents to their offspring through genes. These traits can include physical features like eye color and height, as well as potential for certain abilities or health conditions. In this context, the sentence is discussing how one's intelligence potential is believed to be largely shaped by heredity, implying that genetic inheritance plays a strong role in determining intellectual capacity.
Meaning: The transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring (Noun)
Pronunciation: huh-RED-ih-tee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin “hereditas” meaning “heirship” or “inheritance,” derived from “heres,” meaning “heir.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Heredity is often contrasted with environment in debates about what shapes human behavior and potential. Always remember the interaction between nature (heredity) and nurture (environment) is what makes us who we are.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: genetics, inheritance, lineage, ancestry
Antonyms: environment, acquired traits, external influence
Usage Examples:
- Eye color is a trait determined by heredity.
- Scientists study heredity to understand how diseases are passed through generations.
- Some believe that intelligence is mostly a result of heredity, while others emphasize environment.
- Heredity plays a crucial role in determining our physical and psychological makeup.
Cultural Reference:
"Genes load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger." – A saying used in psychology and genetics to explain the interaction between heredity and environment.
Think About It:
How much of who you are today do you think is shaped by heredity versus your environment and experiences?
Quick Activity:
Make a list of three traits or skills you think you inherited from your family. Then list three you think you've developed on your own.
Memory Tip:
Remember “heredity” from the word “heir”—just as an heir receives property, you inherit traits from your ancestors.
Real-World Application:
Understanding heredity helps in genetics, medicine, family planning, and even in predicting potential health risks or talents in individuals based on family history.
Word 3: Scrutinizing
Context:
"Perhaps eventually from examining the brain in action or even scrutinizing his/her genome." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Scrutinizing” refers to examining something very closely, carefully, and thoroughly. It involves paying attention to details, often in order to analyze or understand something deeply. In the given context, the term is used to describe a detailed investigation of a person’s genome, which implies the use of scientific or technological methods to understand how genes affect human behavior, health, or potential.
Meaning: Examining or inspecting closely and thoroughly (Verb - present participle)
Pronunciation: SKROO-tuh-nai-zing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “scrutari” meaning “to search carefully,” originally referring to those who examined trash or discarded items to find something valuable.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is great for analytical or academic writing. It adds depth to your sentence and suggests more than just looking—it implies a careful, critical process. Use it when you want to show that something is being examined deeply and not superficially.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: examining, inspecting, analyzing, evaluating, probing
Antonyms: overlooking, ignoring, glancing, skimming
Usage Examples:
- The detective was scrutinizing the crime scene for any overlooked evidence.
- She spent hours scrutinizing the contract before signing it.
- Scientists are now scrutinizing genetic data to understand inherited diseases.
- The committee is scrutinizing every proposal before making a decision.
Cultural Reference:
In modern journalism and politics, public figures are constantly scrutinized by the media and the public, often influencing public opinion and career outcomes.
Think About It:
Is scrutinizing always a positive action, or can it sometimes be intrusive or harmful? Where should we draw the line?
Quick Activity:
Take a short news article and scrutinize it: What is the central argument? What evidence is provided? Is there any bias?
Memory Tip:
Think of “scrutinizing” as using a magnifying glass—not just seeing, but deeply investigating every detail.
Real-World Application:
Scrutinizing is essential in professions like science, law, auditing, and journalism where accuracy, truth, and understanding depend on detailed examination.
Word 4: Validity
Context:
"Criticism of this conventional wisdom has mounted. Biologists ask if speaking of a single entity called 'intelligence' is coherent and question the validity of measures used to estimate heritability of a trait in humans." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Validity” refers to the extent to which something is logically or factually sound, accurate, or acceptable. In scientific research, it specifically denotes how well a test or measurement actually reflects what it is supposed to measure. In this context, biologists are questioning whether the methods used to estimate the heritability of intelligence are truly valid—whether they genuinely and accurately measure what they claim to.
Meaning: The quality of being logically or factually sound; the effectiveness of a method or argument (Noun)
Pronunciation: vuh-LIH-dih-tee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “validitas” meaning “strength” or “power,” from “validus” (strong, effective).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
In research and reasoning, “validity” is key. Just because a method gives consistent results (reliability), doesn’t mean it’s valid. For your writing and analysis, always ask: Is the evidence or method truly measuring or proving what it claims?
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: soundness, legitimacy, accuracy, credibility, authenticity
Antonyms: invalidity, falsehood, unreliability, inaccuracy
Usage Examples:
- The scientist questioned the validity of the test results due to inconsistent data.
- You must check the validity of the claim before accepting it as fact.
- Validity is a critical concept in psychological assessments and experimental research.
- They debated the validity of traditional approaches to measuring intelligence.
Cultural Reference:
In courtrooms and academic debates alike, arguments stand or fall based on their **validity**—a concept central to both logic and ethics.
Think About It:
Can a method be widely accepted and still lack true validity? What are the dangers of overlooking this in scientific or social research?
Quick Activity:
Pick any common belief or assumption and write 2–3 sentences analyzing its validity. What kind of evidence would support or weaken it?
Memory Tip:
Think of “validity” like a **valid** passport—it’s only useful if it’s authentic and officially accepted!
Real-World Application:
Validity is crucial in scientific studies, educational testing, legal reasoning, and survey design. A lack of validity can lead to false conclusions, ineffective policies, or unethical practices.
Word 5: Trait
Context:
"Criticism of this conventional wisdom has mounted. Biologists ask if speaking of a single entity called 'intelligence' is coherent and question the validity of measures used to estimate heritability of a trait in humans." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
A “trait” is a specific characteristic or feature of an individual, which can be physical (like eye color), behavioral (like shyness), or psychological (like intelligence). Traits can be inherited genetically or influenced by environmental factors. In this context, the word refers to intelligence as a potential trait that scientists attempt to measure and understand through genetics, questioning whether it's valid to consider it a single, measurable quality in humans.
Meaning: A distinguishing quality or characteristic of a person, often inherited (Noun)
Pronunciation: trayt
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From French “trait,” meaning “feature” or “characteristic,” derived from Latin “tractus” (a drawing out, line).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
In psychology and biology, “trait” is a foundational word. Be it personality traits or genetic traits, understanding this word helps you in grasping how we study human differences. Also, remember: traits can be inherited, developed, or shaped by life experiences.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: characteristic, attribute, quality, feature, property
Antonyms: anomaly, abnormality, deviation (in certain contexts)
Usage Examples:
- Kindness is a trait admired in many cultures.
- Eye color is a genetic trait passed down from parents.
- Researchers are studying the link between certain brain traits and creativity.
- Some traits, like language ability, are shaped by both heredity and environment.
Cultural Reference:
In personality psychology, the **Big Five Personality Traits**—openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism—are widely used to understand individual differences.
Think About It:
Which of your traits do you believe are inherited, and which do you think you developed through experience?
Quick Activity:
List three personality traits you admire in others. Reflect on how those traits could be developed in yourself.
Memory Tip:
Think of “trait” as a “track” or “trace” in your genes or character—it marks who you are.
Real-World Application:
Understanding traits is essential in fields like genetics, psychology, human resources, and even marketing—where knowing traits helps in tailoring approaches to individuals or groups.
