Educational Notes

a. How does the writer distinguish between a peaceful age and a heroic age?

Ans: The writer distinguishes a peaceful age as one where people live in harmony, without the need for constant struggle or conflict. A heroic age, on the other hand, is marked by adventure, risk-taking, and challenges. It is a time when people strive for greatness through heroic actions, often in the face of danger or hardship.

b. Why does the writer want more freedom of speech than most people?

Ans: The writer wants more freedom of speech than most people because they believe in expressing not just popular or accepted ideas, but also challenging and unconventional thoughts. The writer values the ability to question authority and norms openly, which they consider essential for truth and progress.

c. According to the writer, what are the four general human needs?

Ans: The four general human needs according to the writer are:

• Security
• Leisure
• Equality
• Adventure

d. What is the difference between desire and demand according to the writer?

Ans: According to the writer, a desire is a wish or longing that may or may not be fulfilled, while a demand is a stronger assertion or claim for something considered necessary or rightful. Desires are passive; demands are active and imply entitlement.

e. Why does the writer demand security?

Ans: The writer demands security because it is a basic human need. Without security—physical, emotional, and economic—individuals cannot pursue happiness or other goals. Security provides the foundation for a stable and fulfilling life.

a. “The satisfaction of adventure is something much more solid than a thrill.”

Reference: This line is from the essay where the writer discusses the value of adventure.

Explanation: The writer suggests that true adventure offers deeper, more meaningful satisfaction than momentary excitement. Unlike a short-lived thrill, adventure brings growth, experience, and lasting fulfillment.

b. “I want the workers to see the fruit of their own work not in profits for others, but in their own and their friends’ well-being.”

Reference: This line reflects the writer’s socialist beliefs.

Explanation: The writer criticizes the capitalist system where workers generate profit for the rich. They advocate for a system where workers benefit directly from their labor, enhancing their own lives and that of their community.

c. Why do you think the essayist has taken reference from the ancient philosophers?

Ans: The essayist references ancient philosophers to add credibility to his views and show that the pursuit of truth, freedom, and justice is timeless. It also helps connect modern problems to long-standing philosophical discussions about human nature and society.

d. Discuss the essay in terms of its language, purpose, subject, point of view and mode of writing.

• Language: Clear, persuasive, and thought-provoking.
• Purpose: To advocate for a fair and just society and promote socialist ideals.
• Subject: Human needs, social justice, economic systems, and individual freedom.
• Point of view: First-person, expressing personal opinions and beliefs.
• Mode of writing: Expository and argumentative, with elements of reflection.

a. What do you require from your life to be happy and satisfied?

Ans: To be happy and satisfied, I require a sense of purpose, meaningful relationships, emotional and financial security, freedom to express myself, and opportunities to grow and contribute to society.

b. What is socialism? How is it different from capitalism?

Ans: Socialism is an economic and political system where the means of production (like factories, land, etc.) are owned collectively or by the state, aiming for equal distribution of wealth and social welfare.

Capitalism, on the other hand, is a system where individuals or private companies own and operate the means of production for profit, leading to competition and unequal wealth distribution.

Key difference:

• Socialism focuses on equality and community welfare.
• Capitalism focuses on individual profit and free-market competition.

c. Write an essay about your dream house.

Ans:

Everyone has a dream house in their mind — a place where they feel at peace, comfortable, and safe. My dream house is not a luxurious mansion but a beautiful and cozy place surrounded by nature. It would be located near the countryside, away from the noise of the city, with green hills, clear skies, and fresh air all around. This environment would provide me with mental peace and creative inspiration.

The house would be two stories tall, built with a combination of traditional and modern designs. It would have four bedrooms, each with large windows allowing sunlight to pour in. There would be a spacious living room where my family could gather, a kitchen filled with modern appliances, and a small library with bookshelves touching the ceiling. I would also love to have a quiet study room for reading and writing.

Outside, there would be a well-kept garden with colorful flowers, a small fountain, and a few benches. At the back, I would grow vegetables and fruits. A wooden swing under a big tree would be my favorite place to sit and reflect. I would also love to have a small guest house for friends and relatives who visit.

For me, a dream house is not just about the design or size, but about the love, warmth, and memories that are created inside it. A house becomes a home only when it is filled with joy, peace, and togetherness.