Paradox of choice - logical message
Question
Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical message implied by the above passage?
Options
Modern technology enfeebles societal structure and makes life difficult.
Modern life is full of uncertainties and endless difficult choices.
We are influenced by the opinion of others and have no courage to follow our own convictions.
In our lives, having too few choices may not be a good thing, but having too many can be equally as difficult.
Explanation
The passage uses the philosophical fable of Buridan's ass to illustrate the paralyzing effect of having multiple equally appealing options. The author states that modern technology and a "glut of choices" leave people feeling "overwhelmed," "unhappy and anxious". The primary theme is that an abundance of options complicates decision-making rather than simplifying it. Option (d) perfectly captures this balanced contrast between sparse and excessive choice. Option (a) is too extreme ("enfeebles societal structure") , option (b) focuses only on the modern aspect rather than the paradox itself , and option (c) introduces an unmentioned theme about peer opinions.
Answer: (d).
Question details
Year
2023
Paper
CSAT
Question
Q61
Section
Reading Comprehension
Sub-topic
Philosophy / Society passage
Type
RC - Critical message
Difficulty
Medium
Source hint
Passage-based comprehension
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