Comprehension
Read the following passage and answer the two questions that follow.
And that has to do with the question of uncertainty and doubt. A scientist is never certain. We all know that. We know that all our statements are approximate statements with different degrees of certainty; that when a statement is made, the question is not whether it is true or false but rather how likely it is to be true or false. We must discuss each question within the uncertainties that are allowed. And as evidence grows it increases the probability perhaps that some idea is right or decreases it. But it never makes absolutely certain one way or the other. Now, we have found that this is of paramount importance in order to progress. We absolutely must leave room for doubt or there is no progress and there is no learning. There is no learning without having to pose a question. And a question requires doubt. People search for certainty. But there is no certainty. People are terrified- how can you live and not know? It is not odd at all. You only think you know as a matter of fact. And most of your actions are based on incomplete knowledge and you really don’t know what it is all about or what the purpose of the world is or know a great deal of other things. It is possible to live and not know.
And that has to do with the question of uncertainty and doubt. A scientist is never certain. We all know that. We know that all our statements are approximate statements with different degrees of certainty; that when a statement is made, the question is not whether it is true or false but rather how likely it is to be true or false. We must discuss each question within the uncertainties that are allowed. And as evidence grows it increases the probability perhaps that some idea is right or decreases it. But it never makes absolutely certain one way or the other. Now, we have found that this is of paramount importance in order to progress. We absolutely must leave room for doubt or there is no progress and there is no learning. There is no learning without having to pose a question. And a question requires doubt. People search for certainty. But there is no certainty. People are terrified- how can you live and not know? It is not odd at all. You only think you know as a matter of fact. And most of your actions are based on incomplete knowledge and you really don’t know what it is all about or what the purpose of the world is or know a great deal of other things. It is possible to live and not know.
Question: 1
What does the author BEST mean when he says, “We must discuss each question within the uncertainties that are allowed?”
What does the author BEST mean when he says, “We must discuss each question within the uncertainties that are allowed?”
Updated On: Aug 9, 2024
- The uncertainties are limited by the nature of the answers sought.
- The uncertainties should be relevant to the question.
- We must be prepared to accept errors in the answers we seek.
- There is a finite set of uncertainties for any question.
- The question decides the amount of uncertainties that are allowed.
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The correct answer is option (C): We must be prepared to accept errors in the answers we seek.
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Question: 2
Which of the following BEST describes the essence of the passage?
Which of the following BEST describes the essence of the passage?
Updated On: Aug 9, 2024
- Reasonable scepticism is the characteristic of a scientific mind.
- Reasonable discomfort with certainty is the path for progress.
- Progress involves questioning accepted truths.
- Science can never give a conclusive answer to a question.
- Doubting the established world order is the purpose of science.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct answer is option (B): Reasonable discomfort with certainty is the path for progress.
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Top Questions on Reading Comprehension
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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.
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The Story of Coffee
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