Passage 165

By: Koushik

Created: 07/29/2023 10:26

Last modified: 07/29/2023 10:26

When the same parameters and quantitative theory are used to analyze both termite colonies and troops of rhesus macaques, we will have a unified science of sociobiology. Can this ever really happen? As my own studies have advanced, I have been increasingly impressed with the functional similarities between insect and vertebrate societies and less so with the structural differences that seem, at first glance, to constitute such an immense gulf between them. Consider for a moment termites and macaques. Both form cooperative groups that occupy territories. In both kinds of society there is a well-marked division of labor. Members of both groups communicate to each other hunger, alarm, hostility, caste status or rank, and reproductive status. From the specialist's point of view, this comparison may at first seem facile-or worse. But it is out of such deliberate oversimplification that the beginnings of a general theory are made.

Questions:

1	Which of the following best summarizes the author's main point?
	A.	Oversimplified comparisons of animal societies could diminish the likelihood of developing a unified science of sociobiology.
	B.	Understanding the ways in which animals as different as termites and rhesus macaques resemble each other requires train in both biology and sociology.
	C.	Most animals organize themselves into societies that exhibit patterns of group behavior similar to those of human societies.
	D.	Animals as different as termites and rhesus macaques follow certain similar and predictable patterns of behavior.
	E.	A study of the similarities between insect and vertebrate societies could provide the basis for a unified science of sociobiology.
2	The author's attitude toward the possibility of a unified theory in sociobiology is best described as which of the following?
	A.	Guarded optimism
	B.	Unqualified enthusiasm
	C.	Objective indifference
	D.	Resignation
	E.	Dissatisfaction
3	In discussing insect and vertebrate societies, the author suggests which of the following?
	A.	A distinguishing characteristic of most insect and vertebrate societies is a well-marked division of labor.
	B.	The caste structure of insect societies is similar to that of vertebrate societies.
	C.	Most insect and vertebrate societies form cooperative groups in order to occupy territory.
	D.	The means of communication among members of insect societies is similar to that among members of vertebrate societies.
	E.	There are significant structural differences between insect and vertebrate societies.

Answers:

Question No.	Answer
1	E
2	A
3	E

Passage 165

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