It is difficult to reconcile the ideas of different schools of thought on the…
2024
It is difficult to reconcile the ideas of different schools of thought on the question of education. Some people maintain that pupils of school should concentrate on a narrow range of subjects which will benefit them directly in their subsequent careers. Others contend that they should study a wide range of subjects so that they not only have the specialized knowledge necessary for their chosen careers but also sound general knowledge about the world they will have to work and live in. Supporters of the first theory state that the greatest contributions to civilization are made by those who are expert in their trade or profession. Those on the other side say that, unless they have a broad general education, the experts will be too narrow in their outlook to have sympathy with their fellows or a proper sense of responsibility towards humanity as a whole.
Supporters of the first theory would not agree with:
- A.
experts have contributed most to the progress in the modern world
- B.
students should study a few subjects that will help them in their profession
- C.
people with broad general education have not contributed much to civilization
- D.
students should not undertake any specialized work
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Correct answer: D
Correct answer: students should not undertake any specialized work
Explanation: Supporters of the first theory argue that pupils should concentrate on a narrow range of subjects and that specialists make the greatest contributions to civilization. They emphasize the importance of specialized training and expertise.
Because they value specialization, they would reject the statement that students should not undertake any specialized work.
Statements that experts have contributed most or that students should study a few profession-related subjects align with the first theory and therefore are not choices the supporters would oppose.
The claim that broadly educated people have not contributed much overstates the passage; the passage emphasises experts' primary role but does not categorically deny contributions by broadly educated people.