During the early development of a new idea, scientists behave rather like artists, driven by temperament. We start off with a hunch, a feeling, even a desire that the world be one way, and then we proceed from that presentiment, often sticking with it long after the data suggest we may be leading ourselves and others down a blind alley. What saves us is that experiment acts as the ultimate referee, settling all disputes. No matter how strong our hunch is, at some point we will have to prove it with facts. Otherwise our hunch, no matter how strongly held, will remain just that.
In the first two sentences ('During'… 'alley'), scientists are presented as all of the following EXCEPT:
- A. predisposed
- B. determined
- C. inherently logical
- D. overly zealous
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C
The portrayal of scientists in the first two sentences emphasizes their predisposition (A) and determination (B) in their pursuits, highlighting their commitment to discovery. Additionally, the term "overly zealous" (D) suggests an intense passion, which can also be a characteristic of scientists. However, the phrase "inherently logical" (C) is not supported in the text, as it does not imply that scientists are always guided by logic alone; emotions and biases can also influence their work. Thus, option C stands apart from the others.
The portrayal of scientists in the first two sentences emphasizes their predisposition (A) and determination (B) in their pursuits, highlighting their commitment to discovery. Additionally, the term "overly zealous" (D) suggests an intense passion, which can also be a characteristic of scientists. However, the phrase "inherently logical" (C) is not supported in the text, as it does not imply that scientists are always guided by logic alone; emotions and biases can also influence their work. Thus, option C stands apart from the others.
Other Related Questions
In context, the last sentence of Passage 2 is best understood to:
- A. argue in favor of a restrained response
- B. make light of a difficult situation
- C. challenge an established belief
- D. emphasize the severity of a transgression
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D
The last sentence of Passage 2 emphasizes the seriousness of the transgression, highlighting its impact and consequences. This aligns with option D, as it conveys a strong sense of urgency and gravity regarding the situation. Option A misinterprets the tone, as a restrained response would downplay the issue rather than underscore its severity. Option B suggests a light-hearted approach, which contradicts the serious nature of the transgression discussed. Lastly, option C implies a challenge to beliefs, but the sentence focuses more on the severity of actions rather than questioning established norms.
The last sentence of Passage 2 emphasizes the seriousness of the transgression, highlighting its impact and consequences. This aligns with option D, as it conveys a strong sense of urgency and gravity regarding the situation. Option A misinterprets the tone, as a restrained response would downplay the issue rather than underscore its severity. Option B suggests a light-hearted approach, which contradicts the serious nature of the transgression discussed. Lastly, option C implies a challenge to beliefs, but the sentence focuses more on the severity of actions rather than questioning established norms.
As used in sentence 17, 'manipulating' most nearly means
- A. cheating
- B. using
- C. plotting with
- D. carrying out
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B
In sentence 17, 'manipulating' refers to skillfully handling or controlling something, which aligns closely with the meaning of 'using.' This term emphasizes the active engagement and application of a tool or concept. Option A, 'cheating,' implies deceit and is unrelated to the neutral connotation of 'manipulating.' Option C, 'plotting with,' suggests a conspiratorial context, which does not fit the original intent. Option D, 'carrying out,' while somewhat related, lacks the nuance of skillful application inherent in 'using.' Thus, 'using' is the most accurate interpretation in this context.
In sentence 17, 'manipulating' refers to skillfully handling or controlling something, which aligns closely with the meaning of 'using.' This term emphasizes the active engagement and application of a tool or concept. Option A, 'cheating,' implies deceit and is unrelated to the neutral connotation of 'manipulating.' Option C, 'plotting with,' suggests a conspiratorial context, which does not fit the original intent. Option D, 'carrying out,' while somewhat related, lacks the nuance of skillful application inherent in 'using.' Thus, 'using' is the most accurate interpretation in this context.
Which of the following statements does the passage most directly counter?
- A. Having a non-arts job stifles and detracts from an artist’s creative work
- B. For people working in non-arts professions, art is more than just an entertaining distraction
- C. The poetry of William Carlos Williams exemplifies autobiographical poetry
- D. The public’s interest in the arts has declined over the last century
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A
The passage argues that engaging in non-arts jobs can enhance rather than hinder an artist's creativity, directly countering the notion that such jobs stifle artistic work. Option B suggests that art serves a significant purpose for those in non-arts professions, which aligns with the idea that diverse experiences can enrich creativity. Option C discusses William Carlos Williams' poetry style, which is unrelated to the impact of non-arts jobs on creativity. Option D addresses public interest in the arts, a separate issue that does not connect to the effects of non-arts employment on artists.
The passage argues that engaging in non-arts jobs can enhance rather than hinder an artist's creativity, directly countering the notion that such jobs stifle artistic work. Option B suggests that art serves a significant purpose for those in non-arts professions, which aligns with the idea that diverse experiences can enrich creativity. Option C discusses William Carlos Williams' poetry style, which is unrelated to the impact of non-arts jobs on creativity. Option D addresses public interest in the arts, a separate issue that does not connect to the effects of non-arts employment on artists.
The purpose of this passage is most likely to:
- A. present factual information about Egyptian culture
- B. make the case that Egypt is a worthwhile place to visit
- C. suggest a theory about the building of the ancient Egyptian monuments
- D. offer a survey of ancient Roman civilization
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B
Option B effectively captures the passage's intent by highlighting Egypt as an appealing travel destination. The text likely emphasizes its rich history, stunning monuments, and vibrant culture to persuade readers to consider visiting. Option A is incorrect as it implies a purely informative approach without the persuasive element. Option C misinterprets the passage's aim by focusing on a specific theory rather than promoting tourism. Lastly, Option D is off-topic, as it shifts the focus to ancient Roman civilization, which is unrelated to the discussion of Egypt.
Option B effectively captures the passage's intent by highlighting Egypt as an appealing travel destination. The text likely emphasizes its rich history, stunning monuments, and vibrant culture to persuade readers to consider visiting. Option A is incorrect as it implies a purely informative approach without the persuasive element. Option C misinterprets the passage's aim by focusing on a specific theory rather than promoting tourism. Lastly, Option D is off-topic, as it shifts the focus to ancient Roman civilization, which is unrelated to the discussion of Egypt.