Comprehension
Read the following passage and answer the next two questions.
Education, taken in its most extensive sense, is properly that which makes the man. One method of education, therefore, would only produce one kind of man; but the greater excellence of human nature consists in the variety of which it is capable. Instead then, of endeavouring, by uniform and fixed systems of education, to keep mankind always the same, let us give free scope to everything which may bid fair for introducing more variety among us. The varied character of the Athenians was certainly preferable to the uniform character of the Spartans, or to any uniform national character whatever. Uniformity is the characteristic of the brute creation. Among them every species of bird builds its nest with the same materials and in same form; the genius and disposition of one individual is that of all and it is only the education which men give them that raises any of them much above others. But it is the glory of human nature that the operations of reason, through variable and by no means infallible, are capable of infinite improvement. We come into the world worse provided than any of the brutes; but when their faculties are at a full stand and their enjoyments incapable of variety or increase, our intellectual powers are growing apace; we are perpetually deriving happiness from new sources, and even before we leave this world, are capable of tasting the felicity of angels.
Question: 1

Which of the following is true about the given passage?

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
  • It describes the state of education in our society.
  • It narrates the story of educational development in our society.
  • It reflects on the role and impact of education in life.
  • All of the above
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

To determine which statement is true about the given passage, we need to examine the passage's content and understand its main theme.

The passage primarily discusses the role and impact of education on human development. It emphasizes how education contributes to the diversity and improvement of human nature. The reference to the varied character of the Athenians compared to the uniformity of the Spartans indicates a reflection on how education allows for individual and societal advancement beyond mere uniformity.

Here's the analysis of each option:

  • The statement "It describes the state of education in our society" is not entirely accurate because the passage focuses more on the broader philosophical implications and the role of education in developing human potential rather than describing the current state of education.
  • The statement "It narrates the story of educational development in our society" is also not fully accurate. The passage doesn't provide a narrative or historical account of educational development; rather, it offers a philosophical discussion on the value and impact of education.
  • The correct statement, "It reflects on the role and impact of education in life," aligns with the passage's content. The author contemplates the influence of education on human growth and its potential to elevate human nature.
  • "All of the above" is incorrect because not all statements are true for the passage.

Therefore, the correct answer is that the passage "It reflects on the role and impact of education in life."

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Question: 2

Which of the following statements are true about the given passage?
(A) The author creates a binary between uniformity and diversity in matters of education.
(B) It upholds a uniform and stable system of education.
(C) It holds uniformity rather brutish, but necessary for the society.
(D) It holds diversity in education a key to human excellence and progress.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
  • (A) and (B) only
  • (A) and (C) only
  • (A) and (D) only
  • (B) and (D) only
Show Solution
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The given passage discusses the importance of diversity in education and contrasts it with uniformity. To solve the question, we'll analyze the passage against each statement:

  1. Statement A: "The author creates a binary between uniformity and diversity in matters of education."
    • The passage clearly sets a binary opposition between uniformity and diversity. It contrasts the uniform character of the Spartans with the varied character of the Athenians and emphasizes the importance of diversity for human excellence.
    • This statement is true.
  2. Statement B: "It upholds a uniform and stable system of education."
    • The author argues against a uniform and fixed system of education and instead advocates for diversity. The passage suggests that uniformity is a characteristic of the brute creation, contrasting it negatively with human diversity.
    • This statement is false.
  3. Statement C: "It holds uniformity rather brutish, but necessary for the society."
    • The passage indeed refers to uniformity as characteristic of the brute creation but does not describe it as necessary for society. It consistently argues for diversity rather than uniformity.
    • This statement is false.
  4. Statement D: "It holds diversity in education a key to human excellence and progress."
    • The passage emphasizes that the greater excellence of human nature lies in the variety and diversity it can possess, suggesting that diversity is key to human progress and excellence.
    • This statement is true.

Based on the analysis, the statements that are true are (A) and (D). Therefore, the correct answer is:

(A) and (D) only
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