Comprehension

Charles Darwin was a biologist whose famous theory of evolution is important to philosophy for the effect it has had on ideas relating to the nature of men. After many years of careful study, Darwin attempted to show that higher species came into existence as a result of the gradual transformation of lower species, and that the process of transformation could be explained through the selective effect of the natural environment upon organisms. He concluded that the principles of natural selection and survival of the fittest govern all life. Darwin’s explanation of these principles is that because of the food supply problem, the young of any species compete for survival. Those young that survive to produce the next generation tend to embody favorable natural changes that are passed on by heredity. His major work that contained these theories is On the Origin of the Species, written in 1859. Many religious opponents condemned this work.

Question: 1

According to the passage, Charles Darwin was which of the following?

Updated On: Mar 6, 2025
  • a priest
  • a biologist
  • an animal trainer
  • a politician
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Identifying the Profession: 

The passage clearly identifies Charles Darwin as a biologist, noted for his contributions to the theory of evolution and natural selection.

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Question: 2

Which of the following statements supports Darwin’s belief about the origin of all species?

Updated On: Mar 6, 2025
  • Man is descended from monkeys
  • All life forms developed slowly over time from lower life forms.
  • Natural forces do not affect life on Earth.
  • All species were individually created.
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Aligning with Darwin’s Theories: 

The statement that all life forms developed slowly over time from lower life forms is a direct reflection of Darwin’s theory of evolution through natural selection, as described in the passage.

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Question: 3

Darwin’s explanation that the young of any species compete for food and survival, and those that survive are strong and pass their traits on to their young was called which of the following?

Updated On: Mar 6, 2025
  • belief in creationism
  • the catastrophic theory
  • theory of natural selection and survival of the fittest
  • the study of anthropology
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Identifying the Theory: 

Darwin’s description of the survival and reproduction of the fittest individuals is the essence of his theory of natural selection and survival of the fittest, as explicitly mentioned in the passage.

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Question: 4

According to the passage, how was Darwin’s book, On the Origin of the Species, received?

Updated On: Mar 6, 2025
  • Scientists gave their immediate approval of Darwin’s book
  • Religious opponents condemned Darwin’s book.
  • The world ignored Darwin’s book
  • Darwin’s book became an immediate bestseller.
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Evaluating the Reception: 

The passage specifically notes that many religious opponents condemned On the Origin of Species, indicating a significant pushback against the ideas presented in it.

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