SECTION A : VERBAL AND LOGICAL ABILITY

Analyse the following passage and provide an appropriate answer for the questions 11 through 13 that follow.

Number of words in this passage : 302

The Sapir–Whorf hypothesis, also known as the linguistic relativity hypothesis, refers to the proposal that the particular language one speaks influences the way one thinks about reality. The linguistic relativity hypothesis focuses on structural differences among natural languages such as Hopi, Chinese, and English, and asks whether the classifications of reality implicit in such structures affect our thinking about reality. Analytically, linguistic relativity as an issue stands between two others: a semiotic-level concern with how speaking any natural language whatsoever might influence the general potential for human thinking (i.e., the general role of natural language in the evolution or development of human intellectual functioning), and functional- or discourse-level concern with how using any given language code in a particular way might influence thinking (i.e., the impact of special discursive practices such as schooling and literacy on formal thought). Although analytically distinct, the three issues are intimately related in both theory and practice. For example, claims bout linguistic relativity depend on understanding the general psychological mechanisms linking language to thinking, and on understanding the diverse uses of speech in discourse to accomplish acts of descriptive reference. Hence, the relation of particular linguistic structures to patterns of thinking forms only one part of the broader array of questions about the significance of language for thought. Proposals of linguistic relativity necessarily develop two linked claims among the key terms of the hypothesis (i.e., language, thought, and reality). First, languages differ significantly in their interpretations of experienced reality–both what they select for representation and how they arrange it. Second, language interpretations have influences on thought about reality more generally–whether at the individual or cultural level. Claims for linguistic relativity thus require both articulating the contrasting interpretations of reality latent in the structures of different languages, and assessing their broader influences on, or relationships to, the cognitive interpretation of reality.

11. Which of the following conclusions can be derived based on Sapir-Whorf hypothesis?

A. Americans and Indians would have similar intelligence.

B. South Indians and North Indians would have similar intelligence.

C. Those with same intelligence would speak the same language.

D. Those with similar intelligence may speak the same language.

E. Structure of language does not affect cognition.

Explanatory Note:

The focus of the passage is on how language may influence the way one thinks. Hence only choice C and D are possible answers. Choice D is better since it says ‘may’ whereas C says ‘would’. Choice (D)

12. If Sapir-Whorf hypothesis were to be true, which of the following conclusions would logically follow?

1. To develop vernacular languages, government should promote public debates and discourses.

2. Promote vernacular languages as medium of instruction in school.

3. Cognitive and cultural realities are related.

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 1and 2 E. 1, 2 and 3

Explanatory Note:

The passage examines a hypothesis on how language may influence people’s thinking and the last line refers to ‘cognitive interpretation of reality’. Hence only statement C is true. The passage doesn’t state or imply the superiority of the vernacular. Hence statements 1 and 2 can be ruled out. Choice (C)

13. Which of the following proverbs may be false, if above passage were to be right?

1. If speech is silver, silence is gold.

2. When you have spoken a word, it reigns over you. When it is unspoken you reign over it.

3. Speech of yourself ought to be seldom and well chosen.

A. 1 and 2 B. 2 and 3 C. 3 only D. 1 only E. 1, 2 and 3

Explanatory Note:

The passage discusses the influence of language on cognitive development. Hence proverbs 1 (which says ‘silence is gold’) and proverbs 2 (which says you have power over the unspoken word whereas spoken word has power over you) are both false. Proverb 3 can be true since language has influence over thinking, your speech must be carefully chosen. Choice (A)