Question

Directions: Replace the number with the word(s) that best fit(s) the meaning of the passage as a whole.
Indian institutions prefer students to be _______ (46) listeners. Our education system, barring a few exceptions, encourages a hierarchical relationship between teacher and student. The former controls knowledge and the latter is expected to submissively accept what is handed down. The argumentative Indian thrives despite the system. This may look like an / a _______ (47) because a competitive political democracy like India should have facilitated an educational system that is cool about arguments and dissent. Or, is the _______ (48) in the education system a reflection of a flaw in our democratic culture? We have regular elections and our political space teems with parties subscribing to a _______ (49) of ideologies. But is this space sufficiently democratic so that people get the leaders they deserve? A range of identities such as family, clan, caste, religion influences our choice of leaders more than their understanding of public policy. Beneath _______ (50) of democracy, the old social order, where caste was privileged over merit, has survived, though in a weaker form.
Indian institutions prefer students to be _______ (46) listeners.

• A. Talkative
• B. Contemplative
• C. Obedient
• D. Distracted
• E. Cursory

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given passage discusses the nature of the Indian education system and its hierarchical structure between teachers and students. The statement "Indian institutions prefer students to be ________ (46) listeners" needs to be completed with a word that best fits the context described.

1. The passage highlights that the education system is hierarchical, where the "former" (teachers) control knowledge and the "latter" (students) are expected to accept it submissively.
2. The term "hierarchical" suggests a structure where authority is top-down, and students are followers rather than equals in a dialogue or debate. This implies that students should be compliant or follow the instructions without questioning the authority of teachers.
3. The options provided include "Talkative," "Contemplative," "Obedient," "Distracted," and "Cursory."
4. "Obedient" means complying or following the instructions without questioning authority. In a hierarchical education system described, this fits well as students are expected to accept what is handed down to them.
5. Analyzing other options:
   • "Talkative" suggests an active verbal participation which contradicts the passive listening described.
   • "Contemplative" implies a thoughtful reflection, not aligning with the expected submissive acceptance.
   • "Distracted" would indicate a lack of focus, which doesn't fit the expectation of submissiveness or compliance.
   • "Cursory" refers to something done haphazardly or superficially, which doesn't match the described characteristic of obedient listening.
6. Therefore, the best fit here is "Obedient."

In conclusion, the word that best completes the sentence is "Obedient." This is because the passage indicates a system where students are conditioned to be passive receivers of knowledge rather than active participants, making "Obedient" the most appropriate description.