PSAT Reading Question 461: Answer and Explanation

Question: 461

In Passage 2, Arnold's description of Plato's philosophy toward work can be summarized as

• A. true strength is evident only in those who put the needs of others before themselves.
• B. those who cannot make themselves useful to society are little more than parasites.
• C. the demands of one's profession will limit the loftiness of one's being.
• D. true nobility of soul is more likely to be found among those who work by hand than in those who use machines.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

(C) Simply put, Plato is scornful of all working professions. So look for an answer that says something to the effect of labor detracting from one's self-worth. That is choice (C). Choices (A) and (D) favor those who work or service others and so contradict Plato's belief. Choice (B) is too extreme since Plato seems to pity the "bent and broken" victims of the labor force.