The biggest challenge [The Nutmeg's Curse by Ghosh] throws down is to the prevailing understanding of when the climate crisis started. Most of us have accepted ... that it started with the widespread use of coal at the beginning of the Industrial Age in the 18th century and worsened with the mass adoption of oil and natural gas in the 20th .
Ghosh takes this history at least three centuries back, to the start of European colonialism in the 15th century. He [starts] the book with a 1621 massacre by Dutch invaders determined to impose a monopoly on nutmeg cultivation and trade in the Banda islands in today's Indonesia. Not only do the Dutch systematically depopulate the islands through genocide, they also try their best to bring nutmeg cultivation into plantation mode. These are the two points to which Ghosh returns through examples from around the world. One, how European colonialists decimated not only indigenous populations but also indigenous understanding of the relationship between humans and Earth. Two, how this was an invasion not only of humans but of the Earth itself, and how this continues to the present day by looking at nature as a 'resource' to exploit. ...
We know we are facing more frequent and more severe heatwaves, storms, floods, droughts and wildfires due to climate change. We know our expansion through deforestation, dam building, canal cutting - in short, terraforming, the word Ghosh uses - has brought us repeated disasters ... Are these the responses of an angry Gaia who has finally had enough? By using the word 'curse' in the title, the author makes it clear that he thinks so. I use the pronoun 'who' knowingly, because Ghosh has quoted many non-European sources to enquire into the relationship between humans and the world around them so that he can question the prevalent way of looking at Earth as an inert object to be exploited to the maximum.
As Ghosh's text, notes and bibliography show once more, none of this is new. There have always been challenges to the way European colonialists looked at other civilisations and at Earth. It is just that the invaders and their myriad backers in the fields of economics, politics, anthropology, philosophy, literature, technology, physics, chemistry, biology have dominated global intellectual discourse....
There are other points of view that we can hear today if we listen hard enough. Those observing global climate negotiations know about the Latin American way of looking at Earth as Pachamama (Earth Mother). They also know how such a framing is just provided lip service and is ignored in the substantive portions of the negotiations. In The Nutmeg's Curse, Ghosh explains why. He shows the extent of the vested interest in the oil economy - not only for oil exporting countries, but also for a superpower like the US that controls oil drilling, oil prices and oil movement around the world. Many of us know power utilities are sabotaging decentralised solar power generation today because it hits their revenues and control. And how the other points of view are so often drowned out.
Which one of the following, if true, would make the reviewer's choice of the pronoun "who" for Gaia inappropriate?
- Non-European societies have perceived the Earth as a non-living source of all resources.
- There is a direct cause-effect relationship between human activities and global climate change.
- Ghosh's book has a different title: "The Nutmeg's Revenge".
- Modern western science discovers new evidence for the Earth being an inanimate object.
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
If societies outside of Europe perceive the Earth as an inanimate provider of resources, it contradicts the personification implied by the use of "who" for Gaia. Within the passage, the author employs the term "curse" in the title and utilizes the pronoun "who" for Gaia, indicating a viewpoint that regards the Earth as a living, sentient entity. If non-European societies do not share this viewpoint and instead regard the Earth as a non-living resource, it raises questions about the appropriateness of using the pronoun "who" for Gaia in the context of their beliefs. This discrepancy would render the reviewer's selection of the pronoun "who" inappropriate, given the divergent perspectives on the Earth's nature.
So, the correct option is (A): Non-European societies have perceived the Earth as a non-living source of all resources.
All of the following can be inferred from the reviewer's discussion of "The Nutmeg's Curse", EXCEPT:
- academic discourses have always served the function of raising awareness about environmental preservation.
- the contemporary dominant perception of nature and the environment was put in place by processes of colonialism.
- environmental preservation policy makers can learn a lot from non-European and/or pre colonial societies.
- the history of climate change is deeply intertwined with the history of colonialism.
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Option A cannot be directly inferred from the passage. The passage delves into the historical context of climate change as depicted in "The Nutmeg's Curse" and underscores the influence of colonialism on the prevailing perception of nature and the environment. It proposes that alternative perspectives from non-European and/or pre-colonial societies could offer valuable insights for policymakers in environmental preservation. However, the passage does not explicitly assert that academic discourses have consistently served the purpose of raising awareness about environmental preservation.
The passage aligns with Option D by linking the history of climate change with colonialism, emphasizes in Option B that colonial processes have shaped contemporary views of nature and the environment, and suggests in Option C that non-European and/or pre-colonial societies possess valuable insights for environmental preservation policymakers.
The correct option is (A): academic discourses have always served the function of raising awareness about environmental preservation.
On the basis of information in the passage, which one of the following is NOT a reason for the failure of policies seeking to address climate change?
- The greed of organisations benefiting from non-renewable energy resources.
- The global dominance of oil economies and international politics built around it.
- The decentralised characteristic of renewable energy resources like solar power.
- The marginalised status of non-European ways of looking at nature and the environment.
The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Observers of global climate negotiations are familiar with the Latin American perspective of Earth as Pachamama (Earth Mother). However, they also understand that this framing is often merely superficial and disregarded in the substantive aspects of the negotiations. In his work "The Nutmeg's Curse," Ghosh elucidates the reasons behind this phenomenon. He illustrates the deep-seated vested interests in the oil economy, not only among oil-exporting nations but also in superpowers like the US, which exert control over oil drilling, pricing, and transportation worldwide. It is widely recognized that power utilities are presently impeding the progress of decentralized solar power generation due to its adverse effects on their revenues and control. The passage makes it evident that the failure of climate change policies cannot be attributed to the decentralized nature of renewable energy sources such as solar power. Instead, it suggests that power utilities may be sabotaging decentralized solar power generation to protect their financial interests and control. Thus, Option C, which posits decentralization as a cause for policy failure, is not supported by the passage.
So, the correct option is (C): The decentralised characteristic of renewable energy resources like solar power.
Which one of the following best explains the primary purpose of the discussion of the colonisation of the Banda islands in "The Nutmeg's Curse"?
- To illustrate how systemic violence against the colonised constituted the cornerstone of colonialism.
- To illustrate how colonialism represented and perpetuated the mindset that has led to climate change.
- To illustrate the role played by the cultivation of certain crops in the plantation mode in contributing to climate change.
- To illustrate the first instance in history when the processes responsible for climate change were initiated.
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
"These are the two points to which Ghosh returns through examples from around the world. One, how European colonialists decimated not only indigenous populations but also indigenous understanding of the relationship between humans and Earth. Two, how this was an invasion not only of humans but of the Earth itself, and how this continues to the present day by looking at nature as a 'resource' to exploit…."
The passage explores how the colonization of the Banda islands, as depicted in "The Nutmeg's Curse," serves as an illustration of the broader concept that colonialism played a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors that have contributed to climate change. It depicts the exploitation of both indigenous populations and the Earth's resources during colonial times as a crucial factor in perpetuating the perspective that views nature merely as a resource to be exploited, thereby exacerbating the environmental challenges faced today. Thus, the primary objective of discussing the colonization of the Banda islands is to underscore how colonialism represented and perpetuated the mindset that has ultimately led to climate change.
The correct option is (B):To illustrate how colonialism represented and perpetuated the mindset that has led to climate change..
Top Questions on Reading Comprehension
“Why do they pull down and do away with crooked streets, I wonder, which are my delight, and hurt no man living? Every day the wealthier nations are pulling down one or another in their capitals and their great towns: they do not know why they do it; neither do I. It ought to be enough, surely, to drive the great broad ways which commerce needs and which are the life-channels of a modern city, without destroying all history and all the humanity in between: the islands of the past.” (From Hilaire Belloc’s “The Crooked Streets”)
Based only on the information provided in the above passage, which one of the following statements is true?
- GATE CE - 2025
- General Aptitude
- Reading Comprehension
- “His life was divided between the books, his friends, and long walks. A solitary man, he worked at all hours without much method, and probably courted his fatal illness in this way. To his own name there is not much to show; but such was his liberality that he was continually helping others, and fruits of his erudition are widely scattered, and have gone to increase many a comparative stranger’s reputation.”
(From E.V. Lucas’s “A Funeral”)
Based only on the information provided in the above passage, which one of the following statements is true?- GATE CE - 2025
- General Aptitude
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the excerpt from a Handicrafts Manual: ‘Advanced Knitting Techniques’ and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
THE FAIR ISLE METHOD: Fair Isle knitting is a traditional technique that involves using two or more colours of yarn in a single row to create intricate patterns and designs. This method requires careful tension management to ensure even stitches and prevent puckering. To begin, select your colours and cast on the desired number of stitches. As you knit, alternate between colours every few stitches, carrying the unused yarn along the back of the work. Mastering the Fair Isle technique allows you to create stunning visual effects in garments, accessories, and home textiles.
THE CONTINENTAL STYLE: The Continental knitting style, often referred to as “picking,” involves holding the yarn in the left hand while the right hand manipulates the needles. This method allows for greater speed and efficiency, particularly when working with complex patterns or multiple colours. To practice this style, start by casting on your stitches and using your left hand to tension the yarn. With each stitch, simply “pick” the yarn with your right needle, forming a quick and fluid motion. As you become comfortable with this technique, you may find that your overall knitting speed and comfort improve significantly.
THE SHORT-ROW TECHNIQUE: Short-row knitting is an advanced technique that allows for the creation of shaped garments, such as sleeves and shoulders, without the need for complex shaping. To make a sleeve using this technique, begin by casting on the required number of stitches. Work a portion of the row, then turn your work and return without completing the full row to create the “short rows” that shape the curves of the sleeve. To prevent holes at the turn, wrap the stitch before you turn your work. Repeat this process as needed to achieve the desired shaping and dimension of the sleeve. Once you have shaped the sleeve, you can then sew the side seams to connect the pieces of your garment and finally, complete the edges to ensure a clean finish. This method not only helps shape curves but also adds dimension to your piece, allowing you to enhance fit and style.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the following passage and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
The Story of Coffee
Coffee, a beloved beverage enjoyed by millions around the globe, has a rich and captivating history that spans centuries. The story of coffee begins in the ancient highlands of Ethiopia, where, according to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of coffee beans. One day, Kaldi noticed his goats frolicking with unusual energy after eating red berries from a certain tree. Curious, he tried the berries himself and experienced a newfound alertness. This discovery soon spread to monasteries, where monks used it to stay awake during long hours of prayer. From Ethiopia, coffee cultivation and consumption spread to the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Yemen, where the practice of roasting coffee beans and brewing the drink began to take shape. By the 15th century, coffee had become a popular beverage in the Islamic world, with coffee houses known as ‘qahveh khaneh’ emerging as social hubs for conversation, music, and intellectual exchange. These coffee houses became centers of culture and commerce, influencing the spread of coffee to Turkey and beyond, eventually reaching Europe. In Europe, coffee initially faced resistance from religious authorities who considered it a ‘Muslim drink’ and tried to ban it. However, its popularity persisted, and by the 17th century, coffee houses had sprung up in major European cities, becoming important gathering places for artists, writers, and thinkers. The stimulating effects of coffee were embraced during the Age of Enlightenment, where it was seen as a catalyst for intellectual discussion and innovation. The journey of coffee continued with the establishment of colonial plantations in tropical regions such as the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia. These plantations fuelled the global demand for coffee, transforming it from a regional specialty to a major commodity. The industrial revolution further accelerated coffee production and consumption, leading to innovations in coffee brewing methods and the development of instant coffee. In the modern era, coffee has evolved into a deeply ingrained part of daily life for people worldwide. Its cultural significance spans from the bustling cafes of Paris to the quiet coffee farms of Colombia. Today, coffee remains not only a popular beverage but also a symbol of social interaction, productivity, and enjoyment. Whether sipped slowly over a conversation with friends or grabbed hastily on the way to work, the story of coffee continues to unfold, intertwining with the histories and cultures of countless societies across the globe.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the following passage and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
The intricate world of modern manufacturing is a web of precision and innovation, where even the tiniest components play a pivotal role. One such element, often overlooked but crucial, is the sub-subpart. Whether it’s a carpenter fashioning a bespoke piece of furniture or an automobile engineer designing the next generation of vehicles, the creation of sub-subparts is a fundamental process that demands meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. In the realm of woodworking, carpenters frequently work with sub-subparts like dowels, screws, and hinges. These minute components may appear insignificant, yet they determine the structural integrity and functionality of the final product. Crafting a dowel, for instance, begins with selecting the appropriate wood species, followed by precision cutting and shaping. The result is a perfectly cylindrical, sturdy sub-subpart that seamlessly joins two larger pieces of wood. The advent of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer numerical control (CNC) machines has revolutionised this process, enabling carpenters to create sub-subparts with unparalleled precision.
Similarly, in the automobile industry, sub-subparts are the unsung heroes of vehicle construction. Take, for instance, the ball bearing—a minuscule but essential component in the wheels and transmission system. Manufacturing these precision-engineered spheres involves intricate processes like forging, heat treatment, and precision machining. Modern techniques such as laser cutting and 3D printing have streamlined production, ensuring that these sub-subparts meet the demanding standards of the automotive sector. The manufacturing of sub-subparts is a testament to the convergence of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Whether it’s a carpenter’s workshop or a high-tech automotive assembly line, the quest for perfection in sub-subpart creation remains unwavering. The attention to detail and precision required in these processes is a testament to the dedication of craftsmen and engineers alike.
To conclude, while sub-subparts may be small in size, their significance in various industries cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a carpenter working on a timeless piece of furniture or an automotive engineer striving for superior performance, the manufacturing of sub-subparts is a crucial step towards achieving excellence in craftsmanship and technology. This fusion of tradition and innovation accentuates the essence of modern manufacturing.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
Questions Asked in CAT exam
- For any natural Number 'n', let an be the largest number not exceeding \(\sqrt{n}\) , then a1 + a2 + a3... +a50 =
- CAT - 2024
- Number Systems
- The number of all positive integers up to 500 with non-repeating digits is
- CAT - 2024
- Number Systems
- The sum of all real values of $k$ for which $(\frac{1}{8})^k \times (\frac{1}{32768})^{\frac{4}{3}} = \frac{1}{8} \times (\frac{1}{32768})^{\frac{k}{3}}$ is
- CAT - 2024
- Logarithms
- When $10^{100}$ is divided by 7, the remainder is ?
- CAT - 2024
- Basics of Numbers
- In September, the incomes of \(K\), \(A\), and \(V\) are in the ratio \(8:6:5\). They rent a house, contributing \(15\%\), \(12\%\), and \(18\%\) of their respective incomes. In October, the rent remains the same, but the salaries of \(K\), \(A\), and \(V\) increase by \(10\%\), \(12\%\), and \(15\%\), respectively. What percentage of their total income is paid as house rent in October? (Round to the nearest percentage.)
- CAT - 2024
- Percentages