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Question 22 The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
As Soviet power declined, the world became to some extent multipolar, and Europe strove to define an independent identity. What a journey Europe has undertaken to reach this point. It had in every century changed its internal structure and invented new ways of thinking about the nature of international order. Now at the culmination of an era, Europe, in order to participate in it, felt obliged to set aside the political mechanisms through which it had conducted its affairs for three and a half centuries. Impelled also by the desire to cushion the emergent unification of Germany, the new European Union established a common currency in 2002 and a formal political structure in 2004. It proclaimed a Europe united, whole, and free, adjusting its differences by peaceful mechanisms.
A. Europe has consistently changed in keeping with the changing world order and that has culminated in a united Europe.
B. The establishment of a formal political structure in Europe was hastened by the unification of Germany and the emergence of a multipolar world.
C. Europe has consistently changed its internal structure to successfully adapt to the changing world order.
D. Europe has chosen to lower political and economic heterogeneity, in order to adapt itself to an emerging multi-polar world.
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: D
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit: The passage initiates its argument by focusing on Europe's ongoing endeavors to evolve and adapt in a world characterized by multiple centers of power. It points out that Europe has been proactive, both on national and international fronts, in reshaping its internal organizational frameworks and innovating its perspectives on global order. This idea serves as the first key point: Europe's perpetual willingness and effort to adapt to a rapidly shifting global landscape.Subsequently, the author delves into the specific avenues through which Europe has been making these adjustments. Highlighting that Europe has essentially re-evaluated its longstanding political mechanisms, the author notes a conscious shift away from methods that had been in use for centuries. Moreover, Europe's establishment of a common currency is presented as a crucial change in its economic infrastructure. These details collectively form the second key point: the specific strategies and changes Europe has undertaken to adapt in a multipolar world.
Among the options given, Option D effectively encapsulates both of these key points, presenting a summary that aligns closely with the overall thrust of the passage. Option A falls short by neglecting the second key point and also inaccurately linking Europe's adaptations solely to unification. Option B fails to capture the comprehensive nature of the passage and overlooks the first key point entirely. Option C, although partially accurate, misses the mark on the second key point. Therefore, Option D stands out as the most suitable choice, faithfully reflecting the dual aspects that the passage emphasizes: Europe's ongoing adaptability and the concrete steps it has taken to realize this adaptability in a multi-faceted global context.
Word 1: Multipolar
Context:
"As Soviet power declined, the world became to some extent multipolar, and Europe strove to define an independent identity." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Multipolar” refers to a system or situation in which power or influence is distributed among multiple centers, rather than being dominated by one (unipolar) or two (bipolar) powers. In geopolitical terms, a multipolar world involves several influential countries or regions, each playing a significant role in global decision-making. In the context provided, as the Soviet Union's dominance weakened, global power was no longer centralized, and multiple regions, including Europe, began to assert themselves more independently on the world stage.
Meaning: Involving or having multiple centers of power or influence (Adjective)
Pronunciation: MUL-tee-po-lar
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “multi-” meaning “many” and “polar” from “polus” meaning “axis” or “pivot”; originally used in physics and later adapted in political science.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is key in understanding global politics. The Cold War world was **bipolar** (U.S. and USSR); now, with emerging powers like China, India, and the EU, the system is **multipolar**. Always relate it to centers of influence.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: decentralized, pluralistic (in power structures), power-distributed
Antonyms: unipolar, centralized, hegemonic, monopolized
Usage Examples:
- Today’s international order is moving toward a multipolar world, with several influential powers shaping global policy.
- Multipolar leadership in organizations encourages more collaboration and balance.
- The 21st century may witness a multipolar economic system with multiple innovation hubs.
- As new economies rise, the traditional Western dominance is giving way to a multipolar global structure.
Cultural Reference:
After the Cold War, political scientists like Samuel P. Huntington discussed the shift from a **bipolar** to a **multipolar** world, emphasizing cultural and civilizational blocs rather than just military alliances.
Think About It:
Is a multipolar world more stable and fair, or does it create more room for conflict and competition? What are the pros and cons?
Quick Activity:
List three countries or regions you believe are key players in today’s multipolar world. What areas of influence do they lead in?
Memory Tip:
“Multi” = many + “polar” = centers/poles → Think of the Earth with many magnetic poles—each pulling power in its direction.
Real-World Application:
“Multipolar” is used in international relations, economics, and even leadership theory to describe systems where no single entity has total control—crucial for analyzing global power dynamics and collaborative decision-making.
Word 2: Unification
Context:
"The establishment of a formal political structure in Europe was hastened by the unification of Germany and the emergence of a multipolar world." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Unification” refers to the process of bringing together separate parts into a single, cohesive whole—politically, socially, or otherwise. In the given context, it refers specifically to the reunification of East and West Germany after the Cold War, a major event that influenced European politics. This moment of unification marked the end of division and strengthened Germany’s role in the emerging multipolar global order, accelerating efforts to establish a broader European political structure.
Meaning: The act or process of making or becoming united into a whole (Noun)
Pronunciation: yoo-nuh-fuh-KAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin “unus” meaning “one” and “facere” meaning “to make,” through French “unification.” Literally: “the act of making one.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is critical in history and politics. Think of events like the **Unification of Germany** or **Italy** in the 19th century. In modern use, it’s also important when discussing peace efforts, alliances, and even software integration!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: integration, consolidation, merger, amalgamation, combination
Antonyms: division, separation, disintegration, fragmentation
Usage Examples:
- The unification of Germany in 1990 was a major turning point in European history.
- Leaders called for the unification of opposing political factions to ensure peace.
- Language plays a significant role in the cultural unification of a nation.
- The company’s digital strategy included the unification of all internal platforms.
Cultural Reference:
The **Reunification of Germany** in 1990 symbolized the end of Cold War divisions and the collapse of the Berlin Wall—becoming one of the most iconic political unifications in modern history.
Think About It:
Can unification sometimes lead to the suppression of individual identities or regional cultures? Where should the line be drawn between unity and uniformity?
Quick Activity:
List two historical examples of unification (national or institutional). Briefly describe what was unified and what challenges arose.
Memory Tip:
“Unification” = “making one.” Think of **UNI** in “unicorn,” “unicycle,” or “universe”—all pointing to something singular or brought together.
Real-World Application:
Unification is a key concept in international relations, business mergers, technology systems, and even social movements. It helps streamline efforts, foster cooperation, and strengthen collective identities or goals.
Word 3: Culmination
Context:
"Now at the culmination of an era, Europe, in order to participate in it, felt obliged to set aside the political mechanisms through which it had conducted its affairs for three and a half centuries." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Culmination” refers to the highest point, climax, or final stage of a process or series of events. It often signals a moment of completion or a turning point after a long period of development or change. In the given context, Europe is described as reaching the culmination of an era—suggesting a historical peak or conclusion of a centuries-long political tradition. This moment compelled a transformation, encouraging the continent to adopt new structures more fitting for a changing global landscape.
Meaning: The highest or most decisive point in a process or series of events; a climax or conclusion (Noun)
Pronunciation: kuhl-muh-NAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *culminare* meaning "to crown" or "to top off," from *culmen* (summit or peak).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a great word for describing peak moments—either success or turning points. Whether in history, literature, or personal journeys, “culmination” marks the top of the arc. It’s often followed by change or transformation.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: climax, peak, pinnacle, conclusion, zenith
Antonyms: beginning, start, base, low point, decline
Usage Examples:
- The culmination of years of research was the discovery of a life-saving vaccine.
- The novel reaches its culmination in a dramatic courtroom scene.
- The treaty marked the culmination of a long and difficult peace process.
- Her speech was the culmination of months of reflection and preparation.
Cultural Reference:
The **French Revolution** is often viewed as the culmination of Enlightenment ideals—where long-standing philosophical and political ideas erupted into societal transformation.
Think About It:
What moments in your life or in history do you think represent a culmination? What comes after such peak experiences?
Quick Activity:
Write 2–3 sentences describing a culmination point in a novel, film, or real event you admire. What built up to that moment?
Memory Tip:
Think of “culmination” as the **crown** on top of a long process—it represents both a high point and a conclusion.
Real-World Application:
“Culmination” is widely used in education, politics, business, and storytelling to signal the end result or most intense moment of a development process, project, or narrative arc.
Word 4: Impelled
Context:
"Impelled also by the desire to cushion the emergent unification of Germany, the new European Union established a common currency in 2002 and a formal political structure in 2004." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Impelled” means to be driven or urged to take action due to a strong force—whether emotional, political, moral, or practical. In this context, the European Union was impelled by the desire to manage and stabilize the powerful process of Germany's unification. This motivation led to major steps like creating a common currency (the Euro) and developing stronger political structures. The word suggests a compelling internal or external push toward action, often with urgency or necessity.
Meaning: Urged or driven to take action by an internal or external force (Verb – past tense)
Pronunciation: im-PELD
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *impellere* — *in-* (toward) + *pellere* (to drive). Literally, “to drive into.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Impelled” is a dynamic verb that implies a strong motivational force. Unlike “compelled,” which can feel external or enforced, “impelled” often carries an internal sense of duty, desire, or urgency. Use it when someone acts because they **feel they must.**
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: driven, motivated, urged, compelled, pushed
Antonyms: deterred, restrained, discouraged, hindered
Usage Examples:
- Impelled by compassion, she rushed to help the injured animal.
- The threat of economic collapse impelled the government to act swiftly.
- He was impelled to speak out against the injustice he witnessed.
- Impelled by the need for unity, the EU took bold integration steps.
Cultural Reference:
In literature and politics, characters and leaders are often described as being **impelled** by ideals—like justice, nationalism, or revolution—to take transformative action (e.g., Gandhi was impelled by nonviolence; Churchill by resistance).
Think About It:
What are the kinds of forces—internal or external—that impel individuals or nations to make drastic changes? Are they always rational?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “impelled” to describe an emotional or moral decision you've seen in a book, movie, or historical event.
Memory Tip:
“Impelled” = “inner push” → Think of a powerful engine inside you pushing you forward toward a decision or action.
Real-World Application:
The word “impelled” is useful in psychology, leadership, ethics, and historical writing—any context where motivations and driving forces are being analyzed or described.
Word 5: Consistently
Context:
"Europe has consistently changed in keeping with the changing world order and that has culminated in a united Europe." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Consistently” refers to doing something in a regular, steady, and dependable manner over time. It emphasizes continuity, reliability, and a lack of significant variation. In the given context, Europe is described as having **consistently changed**—meaning it has adapted and evolved steadily in response to global changes. This ongoing adaptability is presented as a key reason for its eventual unification and current position in world affairs.
Meaning: In a regular, steady, and reliable manner; without changing or failing (Adverb)
Pronunciation: kuhn-SIS-tuhnt-lee
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin *consistere*, meaning “to stand firm.” The adverb form “consistently” came into English via “consistent” + “-ly.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use “consistently” when you want to describe actions that are sustained over time. It’s especially powerful in academic writing, business performance reviews, and when talking about character or behavior.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: regularly, steadily, reliably, constantly, unfailingly
Antonyms: irregularly, inconsistently, sporadically, unpredictably
Usage Examples:
- She has consistently performed well throughout the academic year.
- The company has consistently exceeded its revenue targets.
- Europe has consistently adapted to global challenges over the decades.
- To succeed, one must consistently put in effort and stay focused.
Cultural Reference:
In professional development and sports psychology, **consistency** is often cited as more important than raw talent—what matters is how consistently you show up and perform.
Think About It:
Why do you think consistency is so valued in leadership, education, or personal growth? Can being too consistent ever become a limitation?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence about someone or something that has improved over time due to consistent effort.
Memory Tip:
“Consistently” comes from “stand firm”—so think of a person or process that stands strong over time, like a lighthouse in rough seas.
Real-World Application:
“Consistently” is a key term in goal setting, time management, branding, and performance tracking—where long-term reliability is critical for success and credibility.
