Question

As early as the seventeenth century, philosophers called attention to the ---- character of the issue, and their twentieth-century counterparts still approach it with ----.

• A. absorbing.. indifference
• B. unusual.. composure
• C. complex.. antipathy
• D. auspicious.. caution
• E. problematic.. uneasiness

Hint:

For two-blank sentences, ensure the chosen words have a logical relationship that is supported by the context. Here, a difficult issue (problematic) leads to a cautious or worried approach (uneasiness).

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The sentence links the nature of a long-standing philosophical issue with the attitude of modern philosophers toward it. The two words should be logically consistent with each other.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The sentence describes an issue that has been discussed for centuries (from the 17th to the 20th). This longevity suggests the issue is difficult, persistent, and not easily solved.
Let's analyze the options based on this idea.
(A) If an issue is "absorbing" (interesting), it is unlikely to be approached with "indifference." This is contradictory.
(B) If an issue is "unusual," it might be approached with many emotions, but "composure" (calmness) doesn't have a strong logical link.
(C) An issue could be "complex," but this doesn't automatically mean it's approached with "antipathy" (strong dislike).
(D) "auspicious" means favorable or promising. It's unlikely that a favorable issue would be approached with "caution."
(E) If an issue has a problematic character (full of difficulties, hard to solve), it is very logical that modern philosophers would still approach it with uneasiness or apprehension. The two words are highly consistent and reflect the nature of enduring philosophical problems.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The pair "problematic.. uneasiness" provides the most logical and consistent description of a difficult, long-standing issue and the cautious attitude it inspires. Therefore, option (E) is the correct answer.