Question

One theory about intelligence sees ---- as the logical structure underlying thinking and insists that since animals are mute, they must be ---- as well.

• A. behavior.. inactive
• B. instinct.. cooperative
• C. heredity.. thoughtful
• D. adaptation.. brutal
• E. language.. mindless

Hint:

Identify the core argument in the sentence. Here, it's a cause-and-effect or premise-and-conclusion structure: "If X is true, and Y is a fact, then Z must be the conclusion." The word "mute" is the critical clue for both blanks.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question requires finding two words that complete a logical argument presented in the sentence. The argument connects the basis of intelligence to the state of animals, based on the fact that they are "mute."
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The sentence proposes a theory where the first blank is the "logical structure underlying thinking."
The second part of the sentence draws a conclusion about animals based on their being "mute" (unable to speak).
The word "mute" directly relates to speech or language. This strongly suggests that the theory in question equates intelligence with language.
If the theory holds that language is the basis of intelligence, and animals are mute (lack language), then the logical conclusion is that animals must lack intelligence.
The word that means "lacking intelligence" is mindless.
Let's examine the pair: "language.. mindless". If the theory sees language as the basis of thinking, and animals lack language (are mute), then they must be mindless. This is a coherent and logical argument.
The other options do not create such a direct logical link with the keyword "mute."
Step 3: Final Answer:
The connection between "mute" and "language" is the key to solving this question. The pair "language.. mindless" creates a consistent argument as described in the sentence. Therefore, option (E) is the correct choice.