It is difficult to reconcile the ideas of different schools of thought on the…
2023
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.
“School of thought” can best be explained as :
- A.
groups of people who are schooled to think
- B.
groups of people having different perception on a particular subject
- C.
groups of people belonging to different schools
- D.
groups of people whose job is to think
Attempted by 13 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Answer: groups of people having different perception on a particular subject.
Explanation: School of thought refers to a shared set of ideas, beliefs or perceptions held by a group of people. The passage contrasts two opposing viewpoints about education—one favoring specialization and the other favoring a broad general education—so it is describing two different schools of thought (two different ways of thinking).
Key point: The phrase is metaphorical, not literal; it denotes a viewpoint shared by a group.
Why other choices are wrong: 'groups of people who are schooled to think' and 'groups of people belonging to different schools' treat the phrase as literal schooling, which is not supported by the passage.
Also wrong: 'groups of people whose job is to think' narrows the meaning to a profession, but the phrase applies to any group sharing a belief or viewpoint, not only professional thinkers.