You may laugh at a hat, but what you are making fun of, in this case, is not the piece of felt or straw, but the shape that men have given it, -- the human caprice whose mould it has assumed. It is strange that so important a fact, and such a simple one too, has not attracted to a greater degree the attention of philosophers. Several have de ned man as "an animal which laughs." They might equally well have de ned him as an animal which is laughed at; for if any other animal, or some lifeless object, produces the same effect, it is always because of some resemblance to man, of the stamp he gives it or the use he puts it to.
Here I would point out, as a symptom equally worthy of notice, the ABSENCE OF FEELING which usually accompanies laughter. It seems as though the comic could not produce its disturbing effect unless it fell, so to say, on the surface of a soul that is thoroughly calm and unru ed. Indifference is its natural environment, for laughter has no greater foe than emotion. I do not mean that we could not laugh at a person who inspires us with pity, for instance, or evenwith affection, but in such a case we must, for the moment, put our affection out of court and impose silence upon our pity. In a society composed of pure intelligences there would probably be no more tears, though perhaps there would still be laughter; whereas highly emotional souls, in tune and unison with life, in whom every event would be sentimentally prolonged and re-echoed, would neither know nor understand laughter. Try, for a moment, to become interested in everything that is being said and done; act, in imagination, with those who act, and feel with those who feel; in a word, give your sympathy its widest expansion: as though at the touch of a fairy wand you will see the imsiest of objects assume importance, and a gloomy hue spread over everything. Now step aside, look upon life as a disinterested spectator: many a drama will turn into a comedy. It is enough for us to stop our ears to the sound of music, in a room where dancing is going on, for the dancers at once to appear ridiculous. How many human actions would stand a similar test? Should we not see many of them suddenly pass from grave to gay, on isolating them from the accompanying music of sentiment? To produce the whole of its effect, then, the comic demands something like a momentary anesthesia of the heart. Its appeal is to intelligence, pure and simple
What does the author BEST mean when they say, “it seems as though the comic could not produce its disturbing effect unless it fell, so to say, on the surface of a soul that is thoroughly calm and unruffled?”
Show Hint
- Unless one is emotionally detached from the event, it is impossible to appreciate a comical view.
- To appreciate humour with an unsettling tone, people benefit from being in a calm state.
- Comics are the most effective when the audience is unaware of the context.
- Comical behaviour disturbs those more deeply whose minds are calm and composed.
- Relaxed people tend to find edgy or disturbing comedy funnier.
The Correct Option is A
Approach Solution - 1
To understand what the author meant by saying "it seems as though the comic could not produce its disturbing effect unless it fell, so to say, on the surface of a soul that is thoroughly calm and unruffled," we need to analyze the idea presented in the provided reading passage.
- The passage discusses how laughter typically occurs in an environment devoid of strong emotions. The author suggests that for something to be perceived as comic, the observer needs to be emotionally detached.
- This concept is highlighted by the phrase "absence of feeling" accompanying laughter. Laughter, according to the text, has no greater foe than emotion. This implies that to find something funny, individuals must temporarily suppress their emotions like pity or affection.
- The passage further explains that if someone becomes deeply involved or connected emotionally, many jokes or comical situations might lose their humor and become serious. Thus, it suggests a calm state of mind is necessary to fully appreciate comedy.
- Among the given options, “Unless one is emotionally detached from the event, it is impossible to appreciate a comical view” accurately captures this idea. This option emphasizes the need for emotional detachment, aligning with the author's point that a calm, detached demeanor is needed for humor to evoke laughter effectively.
- The other options do not closely align with the author’s mention of the need for a "thoroughly calm and unruffled" state. Instead, they imply conditions such as humor being unsettling or requiring ignorance of context, which are not supported by the passage.
In conclusion, the key idea is that emotional neutrality allows for a better appreciation of comedy, thus making the correct answer “Unless one is emotionally detached from the event, it is impossible to appreciate a comical view.”
Approach Solution -2
The line in question highlights that comic effect works only when the “soul is thoroughly calm and unruffled.” This implies that laughter requires absence of deep emotional involvement. If a person is emotionally stirred—whether by pity, grief, or strong sentiment—laughter cannot occur.
Step 2: Interpret the role of detachment.
The passage stresses the “absence of feeling” as the natural environment of laughter. Thus, to appreciate something as comical, one must not be emotionally entangled in the situation. In other words, detachment allows for a humorous interpretation.
Step 3: Evaluate options.
- Option A: Correct. It directly reflects the author’s point that emotional detachment is necessary for a comical view. - Option B: Partly correct, but it narrows the meaning by focusing on “unsettling tone” rather than the general necessity of detachment. - Option C: Incorrect. The author does not discuss audience unawareness of context, but rather emotional detachment. - Option D: Incorrect. Calm and composed minds are not “disturbed more deeply”; rather, they enable humor. - Option E: Incorrect. Relaxed people enjoying “edgy/disturbing” comedy is not the point being made.
Step 4: Conclude.
The author emphasizes detachment from emotion as the essential condition for laughter. Therefore, Option A best captures the intended meaning.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{A}} \]
Based on the passage, which of the following statements CANNOT be inferred?
Show Hint
- Comic happens in a setting of emotional detachment, having a sense of distance.
- Inanimate objects can become a subject of laughter because they may project human characteristics.
- Humour only springs from experiences that demand momentary anesthesia.
- When strong emotions are involved, laughter cannot be evoked.
- When you laugh at a hat, you laugh at a human being it represents.
The Correct Option is C
Approach Solution - 1
To determine which statement CANNOT be inferred from the passage, we examine each given option against the information provided in the comprehension.
Comic happens in a setting of emotional detachment, having a sense of distance.
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that laughter requires an indifferent environment and is opposed by emotion. This suggests that the comic effect occurs when there is a sense of distance or detachment.
Inference: This statement can be inferred from the passage.
Inanimate objects can become a subject of laughter because they may project human characteristics.
Explanation: The passage talks about how inanimate objects or animals can evoke laughter when they resemble humans or reflect human traits. This correlation lies at the heart of their comedic potential.
Inference: This statement can be inferred from the passage.
Humour only springs from experiences that demand momentary anesthesia.
Explanation: While the passage discusses the concept of "momentary anesthesia of the heart" as a condition for experiencing humor, it does not say that humor only arises from such experiences. It suggests that this anesthesia is typical for comedy but does not classify it as the sole derivation source.
Inference: This statement cannot be fully inferred from the passage as it overgeneralizes the conditions under which humor arises.
When strong emotions are involved, laughter cannot be evoked.
Explanation: The passage mentions that laughter opposes strong emotions, which aligns with this statement. It implies that strong emotions could inhibit laughter.
Inference: This statement can be inferred from the passage.
When you laugh at a hat, you laugh at a human being it represents.
Explanation: The passage explains that laughing at an object like a hat is essentially laughing at the human characteristics or creations it symbolizes.
Inference: This statement can be inferred from the passage.
Conclusion: The statement
Humour only springs from experiences that demand momentary anesthesia.
cannot be directly inferred from the passage, making it the correct answer.
Approach Solution -2
The passage stresses that laughter requires absence of deep feeling (emotional detachment). It can arise from objects resembling humans (like hats, animals, etc.) and cannot coexist with strong emotions like pity or sorrow.
Step 2: Check each option.
- Option A: True. The passage explicitly says laughter happens when the “soul is calm and unruffled,” i.e., emotional detachment. - Option B: True. The passage notes that even inanimate objects (like hats) can be laughed at when they carry resemblance to humans. - Option C: Incorrect. The passage says laughter is associated with absence of feeling, not that humor only springs from anesthesia-like experiences. The phrasing “only springs” overstates the case, making it not inferable. - Option D: True. The author stresses that strong emotions prevent laughter. - Option E: True. The author mentions laughing at a hat but actually at the human it represents.
Step 3: Conclude.
The only option that CANNOT be inferred is (C).
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{C}} \]
Based on the passage, which of the following statements will the author BEST agree with?
Show Hint
- Comedy is simply a funny way of being serious.
- Life is a tragedy when seen in close up but a comedy in long-shot.
- Comedy is an escape, not from truth but from despair.
- A person who knows how to laugh at himself will never cease to be amused.
- Comedy is but tragedy, cunningly disguised and popularized for the multitude.
The Correct Option is B
Approach Solution - 1
The question requires us to determine which statement the author would most likely agree with based on the provided passage. Let's analyze the passage to identify the author's main idea and how it relates to the given options.
The passage explains that humor often arises from detachment and a lack of emotional involvement. The author suggests that by stepping back and viewing life from a distance or with disinterest, situations that typically appear serious may seem comedic. The passage points out that laughter is often tied to the absence of emotion and is more about intellectual detachment than emotional involvement.
Now, let's examine the options:
- Comedy is simply a funny way of being serious.- This contradicts the passage as it emphasizes laughter arising from detachment rather than the seriousness being presented in a funny manner.
- Life is a tragedy when seen in close up but a comedy in long-shot.- This aligns perfectly with the passage's argument. The author claims that viewing life from a detached point of view can turn serious, emotional scenarios into comedic ones.
- Comedy is an escape, not from truth but from despair.- This option introduces the idea of 'escape' which isn't directly addressed in the passage. The passage focuses on detached observation rather than escape.
- A person who knows how to laugh at himself will never cease to be amused.- This speaks of self-directed humor, which isn't directly discussed in the context of the passage.
- Comedy is but tragedy, cunningly disguised and popularized for the multitude.- This suggests the idea of comedy being crafted from tragedy, but the passage talks more about perspective and detachment rather than disguise.
Based on these analyses, the statement the author would MOST agree with is:
Life is a tragedy when seen in close up but a comedy in long-shot.
The author emphasizes that detachment turns drama into comedy, and hence, this statement effectively encapsulates the author's viewpoint of how perspective changes our interpretations of life events.
Approach Solution -2
The passage emphasizes detachment and looking at life as a “disinterested spectator.” It suggests that from a calm, distant view, drama can turn into comedy, since emotions are absent.
Step 2: Check each option.
- Option A: Too simplistic. The author does not say comedy is just another way of being serious. - Option B: Correct. This matches the author’s argument that life, when viewed from close with emotions, appears tragic, but when seen with detachment (long-shot), it can become comic. - Option C: Incorrect. The passage does not frame comedy as an “escape from despair,” but rather as a perspective requiring detachment. - Option D: Too individualistic. The passage is about general conditions of laughter, not self-laughter. - Option E: Incorrect. The author does not reduce comedy to disguised tragedy.
Step 3: Conclude.
Option B perfectly aligns with the author’s philosophy of comedy.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{B}} \]
Top Questions on Reading Comprehension
- The advent of social media has dramatically transformed the way individuals consume and share information. In earlier times, people largely depended on newspapers, radio, or television as their primary sources of knowledge about the world. These were institutions that followed established editorial practices and fact-checking processes. With the rise of digital platforms, however, the traditional ‘gatekeepers’ of information have been bypassed. Today, anyone with internet access can create content, express an opinion, or broadcast an idea to a global audience within seconds.
This shift has certainly democratized access and given voice to communities and individuals who were often ignored by mainstream media. Yet, this democratization comes with challenges. Alongside genuine voices, social media has also amplified misinformation, rumours, and half-truths. Unlike traditional journalism, where accountability and verification are built into the system, social media thrives on speed, virality, and emotion. A misleading headline, a misinterpreted statistic, or even a doctored image can travel across the world before fact-checkers have the chance to intervene.
The consequences of such unchecked information can be serious, ranging from the spread of fear and panic to the manipulation of public opinion. The impact of this transformation extends beyond individual users to institutions and democracies. Political campaigns, corporate branding, and even social movements are now shaped by algorithms that decide what people see and when they see it. These algorithms prioritize engagement, often promoting content that provokes stronger emotional reactions rather than balanced analysis.
As a result, echo chambers form, online spaces where people are repeatedly exposed to opinions that mirror their own, reinforcing biases and reducing openness to differing perspectives. This has contributed to increasing polarization in societies across the world. Moreover, the competition for attention has blurred the line between information and entertainment, leading to the rise of sensationalism even in serious public discourse. The credibility of expertise too has been undermined, as opinions from unverified sources are often placed on the same footing as evidence-based knowledge.
In response, several governments and technology companies are exploring ways to promote digital literacy, enhance transparency in algorithms, and strengthen fact-checking collaborations. Ultimately, the challenge lies in balancing the openness of digital spaces with mechanisms that ensure responsibility and trustworthiness in public communication.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2026
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- I have still to be brother to a Prince, though I once came near to kinship with what might have been a veritable King, and was promised the reversion of a Kingdom, army, law-courts, revenue, and policy, all complete. But, today, I greatly fear that my King is dead, and if I want a crown I must go and hunt it for myself. The beginning of everything was in a railway train upon the road to Mhow from Ajmir. There had been a deficit in the Budget, which necessitated travelling, not Second class, which is only half as dear as First class, but by Intermediate, which is very awful indeed. There are no cushions in the Intermediate class, and the population is either Intermediate, which is Eurasian, or native, which for a long night journey is nasty; or Loafer, which is amusing though intoxicated. Intermediates do not patronize refreshment rooms. They carry their food in bundles and pots, and buy sweets from the native sweet meat sellers, and drink the roadside water. That is why in the hot weather Intermediates are taken out of the carriages dead, and in all weathers are most properly looked down upon.
My particular Intermediate happened to be empty till I reached Nasirabad, when a huge gentleman in shirt sleeves entered, and following the custom of Intermediates, passed the time of day. He was a wanderer and a vagabond like myself, but with an educated taste for alcohol. He told daring tales of things he had seen and done, of out-of-the-way corners of the Empire into which he had penetrated, and of adventures in which he risked his life for a few days’ food. “If India was filled with men like you and me, not knowing more than the crows where they’d get their next day’s rations, it isn’t seventy millions of revenue the land would be paying, it’s seven hundred millions,” said he; and as I looked at his mouth and chin I was disposed to agree with him.
We talked politics, the politics of Loaferdom that sees things from the underside where the lath and plaster is not smoothed off, and we talked postal arrangements because my friend wanted to send a telegram back from the next station to Ajmir, which is the turning off place from the Bombay to the Mhow line as you travel westward. He had the air of one who had seen strange countries and stranger men, yet bore himself without vanity. There was a restless light in his eyes, the sort that belongs to men who have lived too long without a fixed purpose. When he spoke of the Empire, it was not with loyalty nor with bitterness, but with the detached amusement of one who has played his part and lost interest in the game. His laughter came easily, though it seemed to echo from some remembered hardship. It struck me then that his stories were less of adventure than of survival.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2026
- English
- Reading Comprehension
Democracy, often hailed as the most equitable form of governance, is a system where power ultimately rests in the hands of the people. The word derives from the Greek words ”demos” meaning people and ”kratos” meaning power or rule. Democracy aims to provide equal political participation and protect the individual freedoms of all citizens. However, while the idea of democracy is simple, its practice is frequently complex and fraught with challenges. At its core, democracy functions on the principle of majority rule, yet it simultaneously guarantees the protection of minority rights.
This balance ensures that while the majority has the power to make decisions through voting, the fundamental rights of minorities are not trampled upon. Such a system requires consistent vigilance and respect for the rule of law. Without these, democracies can devolve into majoritarian tyranny or authoritarianism. The practice of democracy is not merely limited to voting in elections. It encompasses freedom of speech, an independent judiciary, free press, and protection of individual rights. These elements together create a political environment where citizens can express dissent, hold leaders accountable, and participate actively in decision-making. When any component is weakened, the democratic process becomes vulnerable.
In recent times, democratic societies worldwide have grappled with new challenges. The rise of misinformation and fake news has eroded public trust in institutions and polarized societies. Social media platforms, meant to facilitate communication, have sometimes amplified divisive narratives and falsehoods. This has resulted in voter manipulation and a growing skepticism toward democratic processes. Literacy in media and critical thinking is increasingly vital to safeguard democracy from such threats. Economic inequality poses another significant challenge. While democracy promises equal rights politically, vast disparities in wealth and opportunity undermine this ideal.
This phenomenon raises questions about whether democracy is achievable without addressing socioeconomic inequalities. Furthermore, the involvement of citizens is crucial. Democracy requires that people are informed, engaged, and willing to participate beyond casting votes. Civic education and awareness campaigns play an essential role in nurturing responsible citizenship. Apathy or disengagement weakens the democratic fabric, opening avenues for corruption and other dangers to the system. In conclusion, democracy thrives on the collective responsibility of governments and citizens to protect its pillars and ensure inclusive, fair governance.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2026
- English
- Reading Comprehension
The Rule of Law
by Tom BinghamJustice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?
by Michael J. SandelLetters to a Law Student
by Nicholas J. McBrideIn The Rule of Law, former Lord Chief Justice Tom Bingham explores how the principle of legality underpins modern democratic life. He defines the rule of law as more than just adherence to formal rules; it is the assurance that power is exercised within clear, fair, and publicly known boundaries.
Bingham distills the concept into eight principles, including equality before the law, access to justice, and respect for fundamental human rights. Drawing on cases and historical examples, he warns that national security and administrative efficiency must never override the rights of individuals.
The book bridges legal philosophy and practice, arguing that law must be both predictable and humane. For Bingham, the rule of law represents a moral ideal, one that sustains public trust in justice and curbs arbitrary governance.Michael Sandel’s Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do? examines moral reasoning in law and politics. Through examples like price gouging, affirmative action, and taxation, Sandel invites readers to explore competing notions of fairness.
He engages with philosophical traditions such as utilitarianism, libertarianism, and Rawlsian egalitarianism, showing that questions of justice cannot be separated from questions of virtue and the common good.
Sandel rejects the idea of a morally “neutral” legal system, arguing that public deliberation about values is essential to democracy. Ultimately, he argues that a just society is one that cultivates civic responsibility, not merely individual rights.Nicholas McBride’s Letters to a Law Student is a practical and reflective guide for aspiring lawyers. Written as a series of letters to a student beginning law school, it explores what legal study truly involves.
This includes mastering case analysis, understanding precedents, and developing critical reasoning. McBride distinguishes between knowing the law and thinking like a lawyer, the latter requiring analytical discipline and ethical awareness.
He emphasizes that good lawyers combine intellectual rigor with moral judgment and clarity of expression. Beyond academic success, the book urges students to reflect on law’s purpose, balancing order, justice, and compassion in human affairs.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2026
- English
- Reading Comprehension
Urban gardening has become increasingly popular as a means to address food security, sustainability, and mental well-being in cities. By growing their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, individuals can reduce their reliance on commercial supply chains that contribute to extensive transportation, energy consumption, and synthetic chemical use. In addition to providing fresh, nutritious food, urban gardening also contributes to environmental sustainability by mitigating urban heat island effects, improving air quality, and managing water runoff. Furthermore, it offers psychological benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and a sense of accomplishment. Despite its many benefits, urban gardening faces challenges like space limitations, poor soil quality, and inadequate sunlight, which gardeners overcome using innovative techniques such as vertical farming and hydroponics.
- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2026
- English
- Reading Comprehension
Questions Asked in XAT exam
- Arun selected an integer \( x \) between 2 and 40, both inclusive. He noticed that the greatest common divisor of the selected integer \( x \) and any other integer between 2 and 40, both inclusive, is 1. How many different choices for such an \( x \) are possible?
- XAT - 2025
- Number Systems
- ABCD is a rectangle where points C and D have coordinates (−2, 0) and (2, 0), respectively. If the area of the rectangle is 24, what is the best way to describe the equation of the line AB?
- XAT - 2025
- Geometry
- Adu and Amu have bought two pieces of land on the Moon from an e-store. Both the pieces of land have the same perimeters, but Adu’s piece of land is in the shape of a square, while Amu’s piece of land is in the shape of a circle. The ratio of the areas of Adu’s piece of land to Amu’s piece of land is:
- XAT - 2025
- Mensuration
- A and B bought lands on the Moon from an eStore, both with the same diameter but A’s land is square-shaped, and B’s land is circular. What is the ratio of the areas of their respective lands?
- XAT - 2025
- Ratio and Proportion
- A bought a phone from a store and paid \(\frac{1}{6}\) of the price using UPI, \(\frac{1}{3}\) of the price in cash, and the remaining balance a year later. He also paid 10% interest on the remaining balance after one year. What was the original price of the phone?
- XAT - 2025
- Percentage