Philosophy Quiz With Answers
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Start a thought-provoking journey with our Philosophy Quiz, designed to test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the world’s most influential philosophical thoughts and figures. From the ancient teachings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle to the complex theories of modern thinkers like Kant, Nietzsche, and Foucault, this quiz covers a broad spectrum of philosophical topics, including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and political philosophy.
Whether you are a student of philosophy, a casual enthusiast, or someone curious about the different ways humanity has sought to understand reality and our place within it, this quiz offers a challenging and enlightening experience. Each Read morequestion is crafted to not only assess your knowledge but also to stimulate deeper thinking and reflection on philosophical issues that are still relevant today.
Participate in our Philosophy Quiz to measure your understanding, challenge your perspectives, and perhaps discover more about the philosophical inquiries that have shaped human thought across centuries. Perfect for thinkers of all levels, this quiz is a great way to engage with philosophy in an interactive and educational way.
Philosophy Questions and Answers
- 1.
Where does the word "philosophy" derive from?
- A.
Latin, meaning "love of knowledge."
- B.
Greek, meaning "love of wisdom."
- C.
Latin, meaning "love of life."
- D.
Greek, meaning "love of science."
- E.
Icelandic, meaning "love of fish."
Correct Answer
B. Greek, meaning "love of wisdom."Explanation
The word "philosophy" derives from Greek, meaning "love of wisdom." This is because the term "philosophy" originated in ancient Greece, where it referred to the pursuit and study of knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. The Greek philosophers sought to explore fundamental questions about the nature of reality, existence, and human knowledge. The word "philosophy" continues to be used in this sense today, referring to the love and pursuit of wisdom and knowledge.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A philosophical argument is a form of verbal disagreement.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
A philosophical argument is not necessarily a form of verbal disagreement. It is a logical and rational exchange of ideas and reasoning to support or refute a particular philosophical claim or position. While verbal disagreements can occur during philosophical arguments, they are not inherent to the nature of philosophical arguments themselves. Therefore, the statement that a philosophical argument is a form of verbal disagreement is false.Rate this question:
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- 3.
How can Plato's Allegory of the Cave be interpreted as?
- A.
A move from wisdom to ignorance
- B.
A way of educating young children
- C.
The experience of the Forms
- D.
The process of becoming a journalist
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. The experience of the FormsExplanation
Plato's Allegory of the Cave describes the journey from ignorance to wisdom through the experience of the Forms. The Forms, according to Plato, are the ultimate reality and perfect ideals that exist beyond the physical world. In the allegory, prisoners are chained inside a cave, only able to see shadows on the wall. When one prisoner is freed and exposed to the outside world, he gradually discovers the true Forms and gains knowledge. This allegory symbolizes the process of enlightenment and the pursuit of truth, indicating that the correct answer is "the experience of the Forms."Rate this question:
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- 4.
Sherlock Homes found clues that led him to make deductive conclusions that led him to the actual characters responsible for the crime.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
Sherlock Holmes did not always rely on deductive reasoning alone to solve crimes. While deductive reasoning was an important tool for him, he also used other methods such as inductive reasoning, observation, and intuition. His investigations were often a combination of deductive and inductive reasoning, as well as careful analysis of evidence and keen observation of details. Therefore, the statement that Sherlock Holmes solely relied on deductive conclusions is false.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What is an assumption?
- A.
Any idea
- B.
A hasty conclusion
- C.
A principle taken for granted
- D.
A proof
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. A principle taken for grantedExplanation
An assumption is a principle taken for granted. It refers to a belief or statement that is accepted as true without any evidence or proof. Assumptions are often made based on previous experiences, societal norms, or personal biases. They can influence our thoughts, decisions, and actions, and may not always be accurate or valid. Therefore, it is important to critically examine and challenge assumptions to ensure they are well-founded and supported by evidence.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What would Thales and Anaximander be considered as?
- A.
Monists
- B.
Pluralists
- C.
Rationalists
- D.
Empiricists
Correct Answer
A. MonistsExplanation
Thales and Anaximander would be considered monists because they believed that there is a single fundamental substance or element from which everything else in the universe is derived. Thales believed that this substance is water, while Anaximander proposed that it is an indefinite and boundless substance called the "apeiron." Both philosophers sought to explain the nature of reality by reducing it to a single, underlying principle. This monistic view contrasts with pluralism, which posits that there are multiple fundamental substances, and rationalism and empiricism, which focus on the role of reason and experience, respectively, in understanding the world.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How is knowledge often defined as ? (Hint: by Plato and other philosophers)
- A.
Any idea
- B.
An idea about God or the supernatural
- C.
Justified true beliefs
- D.
The foundations of self-consciousness
- E.
Any idea held to be true
Correct Answer
C. Justified true beliefsExplanation
The answer "justified true beliefs" aligns with the definition of knowledge provided by philosophers such as Plato. According to this view, knowledge is not just any idea or belief, but it must also be justified and true. In other words, for something to be considered knowledge, it must be a belief that is supported by evidence or reasoning and corresponds to the actual state of affairs. This understanding of knowledge distinguishes it from mere opinion or belief without justification.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What are the subdivisions of branches of philosophy (according to Lee Archie)?
- A.
Ontology, epistemology, cosmology
- B.
Epistemology, aesthetics, ethics, ontology
- C.
Aesthetics, ontology, scientology, epistemology
- D.
Epistemology, ontology, ethics
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
B. Epistemology, aesthetics, ethics, ontologyExplanation
The correct answer is epistemology, aesthetics, ethics, ontology. These four subdivisions of branches of philosophy cover different aspects of philosophical inquiry. Epistemology deals with the nature of knowledge and how we acquire it. Aesthetics focuses on the nature of beauty and art. Ethics explores moral principles and values. Ontology examines the nature of existence and reality. Therefore, this answer includes all the major branches of philosophy.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Cogito ergo sum means "I think. Therefore I am." By making this statement, Descartes argued that thinking is essentially the foundation of all human behavior.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
Descartes did propose the famous phrase "Cogito ergo sum" which translates to "I think, therefore I am." However, it is incorrect to say that he argued thinking is the foundation of all human behavior. Descartes believed that the mind and body are separate entities, with the mind being the essential nature of a person. While thinking is an important aspect of human behavior, Descartes' philosophy goes beyond just thinking and encompasses the existence of the self as a whole. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Socrates was put to death because he was accused of corrupting the youth through his educational techniques.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
A. TRUEExplanation
Socrates was indeed put to death because he was accused of corrupting the youth through his educational techniques. The Athenian government saw his teachings as a threat to their authority and believed that his influence on the younger generation would lead to rebellion and chaos. As a result, Socrates was charged with impiety and corrupting the minds of the youth, ultimately leading to his execution by drinking hemlock.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What would the statement, "I am and am not an animal" be an example of?
- A.
An assumption
- B.
A conclusion
- C.
A proof
- D.
A paradox
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. A paradoxExplanation
The statement "I am and am not an animal" is a paradox because it presents a contradictory situation. It suggests that the speaker both is and is not an animal simultaneously, which is logically impossible. A paradox is a statement or situation that contradicts itself and cannot be true. Therefore, the correct answer is a paradox.Rate this question:
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- 12.
If you think that beliefs can be best justified in light of the evidence we receive from the mental process of reasoning or intuition, then you are a what?
- A.
Rationalist
- B.
Empiricist
- C.
Materialist
- D.
Idealist
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
A. RationalistExplanation
A rationalist is someone who believes that beliefs can be best justified in light of the evidence we receive from the mental process of reasoning or intuition. This means that they prioritize logical thinking and deductive reasoning when forming their beliefs. They may also value intuition and introspection as sources of knowledge. Empiricists, on the other hand, believe that beliefs should be based on evidence from sensory experience. Materialists focus on the physical world and believe that everything is made up of matter. Idealists believe that reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual. Therefore, the correct answer is rationalist because it aligns with the belief in reasoning and intuition as the best justification for beliefs.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What is dualism?
- A.
Explains how minds and bodies are linked together
- B.
Explains how only mental states can be completely understood in terms of physical states
- C.
Explain how minds or mental states tend to construct the world in terms of opposites
- D.
Rejects the idea that our minds or mental states are less fundamental than our bodies or physical states
- E.
Rejects the idea that our minds or mental states are more fundamental than our bodies or physical states
Correct Answer
D. Rejects the idea that our minds or mental states are less fundamental than our bodies or pHysical statesExplanation
Dualism rejects the idea that our minds or mental states are less fundamental than our bodies or physical states. This means that according to dualism, the mind and body are equally important and neither is subordinate to the other. Dualism posits that the mind and body are separate entities that interact with each other, rather than one being dependent on the other.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What did Heraclitus believe?
- A.
Believed that the world was made up of tiny "atoms."
- B.
Believed that the world was made from water
- C.
Believed that change has a form that underlies all reality
- D.
Believed that there was an ultimate force ruling the universe
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. Believed that change has a form that underlies all realityExplanation
Heraclitus believed that change has a form that underlies all reality. This means that he thought that change is not random or chaotic, but rather there is a fundamental structure or pattern to it. He believed that everything is constantly in flux and that there is a unity in this constant change. This idea is often summarized by his famous statement, "You cannot step into the same river twice," which reflects the notion that everything is always in a state of becoming and transformation.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Easy Problem explains how we feel about being "conscious."
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
The Easy Problem does not explain how we feel about being "conscious." It refers to the question of how the brain processes and integrates information, which is considered to be a relatively easier problem compared to the Hard Problem of consciousness, which is about understanding subjective experience and why it feels like something to be conscious. Therefore, the correct answer is FALSE.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A race is a biological construct that allows us to distinguish groups from one another.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
The statement is incorrect because race is not a biological construct. It is a social construct that categorizes people based on physical characteristics such as skin color, hair texture, and facial features. These physical differences do not determine inherent abilities or traits, and genetic studies have shown that there is more genetic variation within racial groups than between them. Therefore, race is not a valid or accurate way to distinguish groups from one another.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Steven Pinker argues that the "mystery of consciousness" can be explained:
- A.
As an immortal soul separate from the body
- B.
As a "ghost in the machine."
- C.
As a "brain in a vat."
- D.
As biological or neurological processes
- E.
As a distinction between mind and body
Correct Answer
D. As biological or neurological processesExplanation
Steven Pinker argues that the "mystery of consciousness" can be explained as biological or neurological processes. This means that consciousness is not a separate entity from the body, but rather emerges from the complex workings of the brain. Pinker rejects the ideas of an immortal soul or a "ghost in the machine" as explanations for consciousness, suggesting that it is rooted in the physical processes of the brain. This perspective aligns with the scientific understanding of consciousness as a product of neural activity and supports the idea that consciousness can be studied and understood through the lens of biology and neuroscience.Rate this question:
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- 18.
W.E.B. DuBois used this term to describe an awareness of oneself and the awareness of how others perceive us.
- A.
Dualism
- B.
Split personality
- C.
Identity
- D.
Double consciousness
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. Double consciousnessExplanation
Double consciousness is a term used by W.E.B. DuBois to describe an awareness of oneself and the awareness of how others perceive us. It refers to the internal conflict experienced by marginalized individuals who have to navigate their own self-perception while also being aware of the stereotypes and prejudices imposed on them by society. This concept highlights the duality of identity and the constant negotiation between one's authentic self and the external perceptions placed upon them.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What author criticized the philosophy and practice of education by pointing out the fact that most forms of pedagogy tend to privilege the mind over the body and often ignore how creativity can manifest itself differently in individuals.
- A.
Plato
- B.
Socrates
- C.
Robert Solomon
- D.
Ken Robinson
- E.
Helen Fisher
Correct Answer
D. Ken RobinsonExplanation
Ken Robinson is the correct answer because he is known for his critique of the education system, particularly in his TED Talk titled "Do schools kill creativity?" He argues that traditional education focuses too much on academic subjects and neglects the development of creativity and individual talents. Robinson emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing different forms of creativity, as well as the need to balance the mind-body connection in education.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Pythagoras believed that:
- A.
Mathematics was the key to life
- B.
Numbers were the real nature of things
- C.
That the sum of the two lengths of a triangle is always greater than the third
- D.
1 + 1 = 10 (in binary, or base 2)
- E.
He would one day discover one of the most important theories of all time
Correct Answer
B. Numbers were the real nature of thingsExplanation
Pythagoras believed that numbers were the real nature of things. This suggests that he believed that the fundamental nature of the universe could be understood and explained through mathematics and numbers. He likely believed that everything could be quantified and measured, and that mathematical relationships and patterns could be found in all aspects of the world. This belief in the power and significance of numbers was central to Pythagoras' philosophy and his contributions to mathematics.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Democritus, in his belief that the universe was made of tiny bits of stuff called "atoms," would be considered:
- A.
A monist
- B.
A pluralist
- C.
A materialist
- D.
A and B
- E.
B and C
Correct Answer
E. B and CExplanation
Democritus believed that the universe was made of tiny bits of stuff called "atoms," which suggests that he was a materialist. Additionally, his belief in atoms implies that he was a pluralist, as he believed in the existence of multiple atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is B and C.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Air is the source of ultimate reality according to:
- A.
Thales
- B.
Anaximander
- C.
Anaximenes
- D.
Heraclitus
- E.
Parmenides
Correct Answer
C. AnaximenesExplanation
Anaximenes believed that air is the source of ultimate reality. He proposed that air is the fundamental substance from which all other things are derived. According to him, air can be transformed into different forms and states, such as becoming denser to form water or condensing further to create earth and stone. Anaximenes' theory suggests that air is the underlying element that gives rise to the diversity and change observed in the world.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The process of distinguishing mere belief from knowledge is called:
- A.
The mind-body problem
- B.
Dualism
- C.
Double consciousness
- D.
The method of doubt
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. The method of doubtExplanation
The correct answer is "the method of doubt". The process of distinguishing mere belief from knowledge involves using the method of doubt, which involves questioning and critically examining our beliefs to determine their validity. This method allows us to differentiate between beliefs that are based on mere speculation or opinion, and knowledge that is supported by evidence and logical reasoning. By employing the method of doubt, we can strive for a more accurate understanding of the world around us.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Consider the following argument: If you get a good grade on this test, then you will feel good about yourself. If you feel good about yourself, then you will do better on future tests. Therefore, if you get a good grade on this test, then you will do better on future tests. If we assume the premises are true, this argument would be considered:
- A.
Inductively valid
- B.
Deductively valid
- C.
Reasonably sound
- D.
Unreasonably shaky
- E.
Honestly true
Correct Answer
B. Deductively validExplanation
The given argument is deductively valid because it follows the structure of a valid deductive argument. In a deductively valid argument, if the premises are true, then the conclusion must also be true. In this argument, the premises state a conditional relationship between getting a good grade on the test and feeling good about oneself, and feeling good about oneself and doing better on future tests. The conclusion then follows logically from these premises. Therefore, if the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true, making the argument deductively valid.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Sherri Ortner argued that women, if seen as a mediating element between nature and culture, then:
- A.
They would castrate men in dark caves.
- B.
They would be seen as powerful agents of change.
- C.
Their roles would be restricted and circumscribed.
- D.
They would be seen as having different status than men.
- E.
They would promote aspects of lesbianism
Correct Answer
C. Their roles would be restricted and circumscribed.Explanation
According to Sherri Ortner, if women are considered as a mediating element between nature and culture, their roles would be restricted and circumscribed. This implies that their societal functions and responsibilities would be limited and controlled, possibly due to the perception of their connection to nature and their association with traditional gender roles.Rate this question:
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- 26.
When we travel to faraway places because of their exotic allure or "natural" escape, we call this:
- A.
Love
- B.
Eros
- C.
Xenophobia
- D.
Xenophilia
- E.
Stereotyping
Correct Answer
D. XenopHiliaExplanation
Xenophilia refers to the love or attraction towards foreign or exotic things. When we travel to faraway places because of their exotic allure or to escape from our everyday lives, it can be seen as an expression of xenophilia. This term captures the idea of being drawn to unfamiliar cultures and environments, seeking out new experiences and embracing diversity. It signifies a positive curiosity and appreciation for the unknown, rather than a fear or dislike of it.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In Meditations II, Rene Descartes invoked this entity to help him explore the doubts and certainties of our existence.
- A.
Immortal soul
- B.
God
- C.
Wax sculptures
- D.
Evil genius
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. Evil geniusExplanation
In Meditations II, Rene Descartes invoked the concept of an evil genius to help him explore the doubts and certainties of our existence. The evil genius represents a skeptical and doubting entity that could potentially deceive us and manipulate our perceptions. Descartes used this concept to challenge his own beliefs and to establish a foundation of knowledge that could not be undermined by any possible deception. By considering the existence of an evil genius, Descartes aimed to reach a point of certainty and establish a solid basis for his philosophical inquiries.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Helen Fisher found that these forms of "love" are distinctive.
- A.
Love and sex
- B.
Love, sex, and intimacy
- C.
Love, intimacy, and lust
- D.
Attachment, romantic love, and lust
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. Attachment, romantic love, and lustExplanation
Helen Fisher's research revealed that attachment, romantic love, and lust are distinct forms of "love." This means that these three types of love have unique characteristics and qualities that differentiate them from one another. The other options, such as love and sex, love, sex, and intimacy, and all of the above, do not accurately capture the specific forms of love that Fisher identified in her research.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Esther Perel argues that committed couples achieve greater intimacy through more communication and continued contact with one another.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
Esther Perel actually argues that committed couples achieve greater intimacy not solely through more communication and continued contact with one another, but also through maintaining a sense of independence and autonomy within the relationship. She emphasizes the importance of balancing togetherness and individuality, as well as fostering desire and passion through maintaining a sense of mystery and novelty. Therefore, the correct answer is FALSE.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The word "stereotype" was first popularized in the United States by:
- A.
A high school teacher (Mr. Fogli)
- B.
A philosopher (Socrates)
- C.
A politician (Jesse Helms)
- D.
A journalist (Walter Lippman)
Correct Answer
D. A journalist (Walter Lippman)Explanation
Walter Lippman is the correct answer because he was a journalist who played a significant role in popularizing the word "stereotype" in the United States. Lippman's book "Public Opinion," published in 1922, discussed the concept of stereotypes and their impact on public perception. Through his writings and influence, Lippman contributed to the understanding and usage of the term in American society.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Gene Yang:
- A.
Wrote about the history of Asian-American culture
- B.
Wrote graphic novels or comics representing the tensions of race and identity
- C.
Expressed his deep love of Asian-American culture through comics
- D.
Expressed his anxieties about race and ethnicity through photography
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
B. Wrote grapHic novels or comics representing the tensions of race and identityExplanation
The correct answer is "wrote graphic novels or comics representing the tensions of race and identity." This answer is supported by the statement in the question that Gene Yang "expressed his deep love of Asian-American culture through comics," which suggests that his work focuses on Asian-American culture. Additionally, the mention of "representing the tensions of race and identity" further reinforces the idea that his graphic novels or comics explore these themes.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Malcolm X advocates that we trust only those who share cultural features with our own.
- A.
TRUE
- B.
FALSE
Correct Answer
B. FALSEExplanation
Malcolm X did not advocate for trusting only those who share cultural features with our own. In fact, he promoted the idea of unity and equality among all people, regardless of their cultural backgrounds. He believed in the power of education and understanding to bridge the gaps between different cultures and promote harmony. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 33.
In Plato's Symposium, love tries to "heal the wound of nature" by:
- A.
Making ourselves feel "whole" with others like us
- B.
Finding our other "half" and uniting with it
- C.
Using Viagra effectively
- D.
Exiting a cave to "see the light."
- E.
Hiding our nakedness with a leaf
Correct Answer
B. Finding our other "half" and uniting with itExplanation
In Plato's Symposium, love is described as the search for our other "half" and the desire to unite with it. This concept suggests that humans are incomplete beings and that love is the pursuit of finding our missing part to become whole. It implies that love has the power to heal the sense of incompleteness and fulfill our innate desire for unity and connection with another person. This idea is central to Plato's philosophy of love and the Symposium explores various perspectives on the nature and purpose of love.Rate this question:
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- 34.
This author first described how women are often seen as an "Other," much like different ethnic groups.
- A.
Elizabeth Spelman
- B.
Sherri Ortner
- C.
Simone de Beauvoir
- D.
Mary Wollstonecraft
- E.
Helen Fisher
Correct Answer
C. Simone de BeauvoirExplanation
Simone de Beauvoir is the correct answer because she is known for her work in feminist philosophy, particularly in her book "The Second Sex." In this book, de Beauvoir discusses how women have historically been seen as the "Other," similar to how different ethnic groups are marginalized and oppressed. She explores the social construction of gender and the ways in which women have been subordinated throughout history. This aligns with the description provided in the question, making de Beauvoir the most suitable answer.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Hedwig reshapes the story presented in Plato's Symposium by:
- A.
Advocating the gender-bending activity of cross-dressing
- B.
Expressing how notions of love and gender are more variable than we think
- C.
Promoting a variety of sexual practices
- D.
Expressing how sex is a universal problem
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
B. Expressing how notions of love and gender are more variable than we thinkExplanation
Hedwig reshapes the story presented in Plato's Symposium by expressing how notions of love and gender are more variable than we think. This suggests that Hedwig challenges traditional ideas of love and gender, emphasizing that they are not fixed or limited but can be fluid and diverse. By doing so, Hedwig expands our understanding of these concepts and promotes a more inclusive and open-minded perspective.Rate this question:
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Aug 07, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Mar 08, 2009Quiz Created by
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