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Question 23: The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
Passage:
All that we think we know about how life hangs together is really some kind of illusion that we have perpetrated on ourselves because of our limited vision. What appear to be inanimate objects such as stones turn out not only to be alive in the same way that we are, but also in many infinitesimal ways to be affected by stimuli just as humans are. The distinction between animate and inanimate simply cannot be made when you enter the world of quantum mechanics and try to determine how those apparent subatomic particles, of which you and everything else in our universe is composed, are all tied together. The point is that physics and metaphysics show there is a pattern to the universe that goes beyond our capacity to grasp it with our brains.
Options:
A. The effect of stimuli is similar in inanimate objects when compared to animate objects or living beings.
B. Quantum physics indicates that an astigmatic view of reality results in erroneous assumptions about the universe.
C. The inanimate world is both sentient and cognizant like its animate counterpart.
D. Arbitrary distinctions between inanimate and animate objects disappear at the scale at which quantum mechanics works.
Solution with Explanation
Answer: D
Solution by Wordpandit:
The passage delves into the complexities and limitations inherent in our current understanding of the universe, particularly in how we differentiate between animate and inanimate objects. It posits that this conventional division might not be as clear-cut as we believe, largely due to the limitations of our human perspective. Additionally, the passage suggests that the quantum mechanical realm offers an alternative viewpoint on this traditional classification, potentially blurring the clear boundaries we've established. Furthermore, the passage hints at the existence of an elusive, perhaps even incomprehensible, pattern underlying the universeâa pattern that our human cognitive faculties may be inadequately equipped to fully understand.
Evaluation of Options:
- Option A: Incorrect. The passage doesnât state that inanimate and animate objects react similarly to stimuli in any measurable way; it questions the validity of the distinction at the quantum level.
- Option B: Incorrect. The term âastigmaticâ and its implications are not used or implied. The passage critiques our limited vision but not in this specific metaphorical manner.
- Option C: Incorrect. The text never claims that inanimate objects possess consciousness (sentience or cognition); it suggests our perception of what is "alive" may be limited.
- Option D: Correct. This option best captures the key insight of the passageâthat the binary division between animate and inanimate breaks down at the quantum level and reveals the limitations of our understanding.
Conclusion: The passage challenges our conventional views by suggesting that quantum mechanics unravels the distinction between the animate and inanimate. It also points out the limited capacity of human perception in grasping the deeper patterns of the universe. Option D captures this essence best.
Word 1: Illusion
Context:
"All that we think we know about how life hangs together is really some kind of illusion that we have perpetrated on ourselves because of our limited vision."
Explanatory Paragraph:
An "illusion" is a false perception or beliefâsomething that appears to be real or true, but is actually deceptive. Illusions can be visual, such as optical tricks, or abstract, such as self-deceptions or misconceptions. In the context of the sentence, the writer is suggesting that much of what we believe about life and reality might not be true, but rather comforting or convincing stories we've told ourselves to make sense of things we don't fully understand.
Meaning: A false idea or belief; something that misleads the mind or senses (Noun)
Pronunciation: ih-LOO-zhun
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner to Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "illusio" meaning mockery or deception, from "illudere" â to mock or trick.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of illusions as mind-tricks. Just like a magicianâs illusion hides reality, our thoughts and beliefs can sometimes mask the truth. Be cautiousâwhat you perceive may not always be what is.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: deception, mirage, hallucination, fantasy, misconception
Antonyms: reality, truth, certainty, fact
Usage Examples:
- The magician created the illusion of levitation on stage.
- Many believe that success equals happiness, but that can be an illusion.
- The desert heat gave rise to illusions of water in the distance.
- He lived under the illusion that money would solve all his problems.
Cultural Reference:
"Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one." â Albert Einstein
Think About It:
What common beliefs or perceptions in society do you think might actually be illusions? How can we tell the difference?
Quick Activity:
List two illusions youâve experienced in lifeâone visual and one personal beliefâand explain what made them misleading.
Memory Tip:
Think: "Illusion = I-lose-sight of truth" â It tricks your senses or mind!
Real-World Application:
The concept of illusion is crucial in psychology, philosophy, advertising, and even politicsâwhere perceptions are shaped, sometimes falsely, to influence behavior or belief.
Word 2: Infinitesimal
Context:
"What appear to be inanimate objects such as stones turn out not only to be alive in the same way that we are, but also in many infinitesimal ways to be affected by stimuli just as humans are."
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Infinitesimal" refers to something extremely smallâso tiny that itâs almost impossible to measure or detect. The term is often used in mathematics, science, and philosophy to describe quantities or changes that are nearly zero, yet still real and impactful. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that even objects we think of as lifelessâlike stonesârespond to external influences in minuscule, almost imperceptible ways, hinting at the interconnectedness of all matter.
Meaning: Extremely small; too small to be measured (Adjective)
Pronunciation: in-fin-uh-TESS-uh-muhl
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "infinitus" meaning infinite + "simus" meaning smallest; coined in the 17th century to describe tiny quantities in calculus.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is often used in math or science but also beautifully works in literature or philosophy to describe subtle, almost invisible things. Think of atoms or emotions that are real but nearly undetectable.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: microscopic, minuscule, tiny, imperceptible, atomic
Antonyms: enormous, gigantic, massive, measurable
Usage Examples:
- The scientist detected an infinitesimal change in temperature after the reaction.
- Even an infinitesimal misalignment can cause major issues in precision engineering.
- The difference in the twins' fingerprints was infinitesimal but still unique.
- In meditation, we become aware of the infinitesimal sensations of the body.
Cultural Reference:
"In the vastness of the cosmos, our planet is but an infinitesimal speck." â Carl Sagan (paraphrased from *Cosmos*)
Think About It:
Can something infinitesimal still have a significant impact? How does this idea influence how we view change or growth in life?
Quick Activity:
List three things that are infinitesimal in size but crucial in function (e.g., DNA, neurons, microchips). Briefly describe why each matters.
Memory Tip:
Think: *infinite* + *small* = *infinitesimal* â so small itâs almost part of the infinite void!
Real-World Application:
In science and engineering, understanding infinitesimal differences is crucial for advancements in nanotechnology, quantum physics, and biomedical research. Even the tiniest shifts can lead to major innovations or discoveries.
Word 3: Stimuli
Context:
"What appear to be inanimate objects such as stones turn out not only to be alive in the same way that we are, but also in many infinitesimal ways to be affected by stimuli just as humans are."
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Stimuli" is the plural form of "stimulus" and refers to things or events that provoke a reaction or response, especially in a living organism. These can be physical (like light, heat, or sound), emotional, or chemical. In this context, the word implies that even seemingly lifeless objects like stones might respond, in tiny ways, to environmental triggersâmuch like living beings do. This broadens our understanding of what it means to be responsive or "alive."
Meaning: Things that cause a reaction or response, especially in living organisms (Noun â plural of stimulus)
Pronunciation: STIM-yuh-lye
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner to Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "stimulus" meaning a goad or spur, originally used to describe something that provokes action.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Always remember: âstimuliâ = plural, âstimulusâ = singular. If youâre talking about many triggers or inputs that cause a reaction, use âstimuli.â Common in biology and psychology.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: triggers, prompts, signals, inputs, incentives
Antonyms: inhibitors, suppressants, deterrents, blocks
Usage Examples:
- Plants grow toward light, responding to external stimuli.
- Children require constant mental stimuli to stay engaged in class.
- The nervous system processes multiple stimuli at onceâsound, touch, and sight.
- Emotional stimuli can deeply influence our memory and decision-making.
Cultural Reference:
"The human brain is designed to respond to stimuliâbe it visual, auditory, or social." â From *The Brain That Changes Itself* by Norman Doidge
Think About It:
If all living beings and even some inanimate objects react to stimuli, does this blur the line between life and non-life?
Quick Activity:
List five common stimuli that affect you daily (e.g., sunlight, music). Briefly describe how each influences your behavior or mood.
Memory Tip:
Stimuli *stimulate* reactions. Just remember: âstimâ in both = trigger something!
Real-World Application:
In medicine, therapy, marketing, and education, understanding how people respond to different stimuli helps tailor environments, treatments, and products to produce desired outcomes.
Word 4: Metaphysics
Context:
"The point is that physics and metaphysics show there is a pattern to the universe that goes beyond our capacity to grasp it with our brains."
Explanatory Paragraph:
Metaphysics is a branch of philosophy that deals with the fundamental nature of reality, existence, and the universe beyond what can be observed physically. It explores abstract concepts like being, time, space, causality, and the nature of consciousness. In the context of the sentence, metaphysics is paired with physics to emphasize that while physics explains the physical laws of the universe, metaphysics delves into deeper, often unmeasurable patterns and meanings that our minds struggle to fully comprehend.
Meaning: The branch of philosophy that studies the nature of reality, existence, and the universe beyond the physical (Noun)
Pronunciation: meh-tuh-FIZ-iks
Difficulty Level: ââââ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek "meta" meaning beyond + "physika" meaning physical things; originally used to describe works that came âafter the physicsâ of Aristotle.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Metaphysics goes beyond the tangibleâitâs not about what you can see or touch, but about what lies beneath or beyond existence. Itâs the ultimate âwhyâ question discipline in philosophy. Not science, but something deeper.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: philosophy of existence, ontology, cosmology, speculative philosophy
Antonyms: empirical science, physics, materialism
Usage Examples:
- He spent years studying metaphysics to understand the nature of reality.
- The novel explores metaphysical questions about time and consciousness.
- Metaphysics challenges us to think beyond the seen and measured world.
- Debates about the soul and free will often fall into the realm of metaphysics.
Cultural Reference:
"Metaphysics is the attempt of the mind to rise above the limitations of sense perception." â Immanuel Kant
Think About It:
Do you believe that reality consists only of what can be seen and measured, or is there more to existence that metaphysics attempts to explain?
Quick Activity:
Write a one-sentence answer to the question: âWhat is the purpose of existence?â Then label it as either scientific, metaphysical, or both.
Memory Tip:
âMetaâ = beyond + âphysicsâ = the physical â Metaphysics = beyond the physical!
Real-World Application:
Metaphysics influences areas like theology, cosmology, and even quantum theory, offering frameworks for thinking about what lies beyond direct human perception or scientific measurement.
Word 5: Distinction
Context:
"Arbitrary distinctions between inanimate and animate objects disappear at the scale at which quantum mechanics works."
Explanatory Paragraph:
A "distinction" is a difference or contrast between two things. It marks a line that separates or differentiates concepts, objects, or categories. In the given context, the sentence suggests that when viewed at the quantum level, the usual boundaries we draw between living and non-living matter no longer hold up. Quantum mechanics reveals that all matter behaves in strange, unified ways, dissolving the conventional distinctions we rely on to understand the world.
Meaning: A difference or contrast between similar things or people (Noun)
Pronunciation: dis-TINGK-shun
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner to Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "distinctio," from "distinguere" meaning to separate or divide.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Distinction = a clear difference. Use this when pointing out what sets one thing apart from another. Can be applied in science, writing, reasoning, or even social conversations.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: difference, contrast, separation, demarcation, variation
Antonyms: similarity, sameness, equality, uniformity
Usage Examples:
- There is a clear distinction between fact and opinion in critical thinking.
- The legal system makes important distinctions between types of offenses.
- She earned the distinction of being the youngest Nobel Prize winner.
- At the quantum level, the distinction between particles and waves becomes blurry.
Cultural Reference:
"The distinction between past, present, and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion." â Albert Einstein
Think About It:
What distinctions do we accept in daily life that might not hold up under deeper scientific or philosophical scrutiny?
Quick Activity:
Pick two related concepts (e.g., emotion vs. reason, art vs. science) and write a sentence showing a key distinction between them.
Memory Tip:
âDistinctionâ helps you *distinguish* things apart â both words share the same root!
Real-World Application:
Understanding distinctions is critical in law, medicine, ethics, and scienceâit helps us classify, interpret, and make informed decisions in complex scenarios.
