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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the author, which form of art is most practically useful?
(a) Architecture.
(b) Ceramics.
(c) Sculpture.
(d) Literature.

2. What is known about the substance being tested as of the year the experiment is performed?
(a) It is only safe to use in small doses.
(b) It can alter the subject's mental state without any noticeable side effects.
(c) It alters one's mental state, but often induces anxiety or panic.
(d) It can have serious or even fatal side effects, but only in a very small percentage of people who use it.

3. When did fireworks re-enter the world of popular entertainment, according to the author?
(a) During the Renaissance.
(b) During the Industrial Revolution.
(c) In the mid-18th century.
(d) During the reign of Elizabeth I.

4. The author feels that all human beings are naturally what?
(a) Solitary, but sometimes focused on others.
(b) Introspective and solitary.
(c) Solitary, but not introspective.
(d) Introspective, but group-oriented.

5. What results were produced when a researcher prodded parts of the brain with a fine electrode?
(a) The subjects were able to learn new languages and skills more efficiently.
(b) The subjects recalled detailed and distant memories.
(c) The subjects experienced a variety of emotions.
(d) Various parts of the subjects' bodies twitched.

6. How does the author describe our ancestors' winter diets in Appendix 2?
(a) They ate mostly meat and grains, with some fruit and vegetables.
(b) They ate pretty much the same diet they ate during the rest of the year.
(c) They ate dried meat and fruit which they stored during the autumn harvest.
(d) They ate no fruit, no vegetables, and very little meat or dairy.

7. According to the author, what are the odds of a negative reaction with the second technique described in Appendix 1?
(a) 1 in 25.
(b) 1 in 70.
(c) 1 in 80.
(d) 1 in 100.

8. What substance is produced when adrenalin decomposes?
(a) Mescalin.
(b) Melatonin.
(c) Adrenochrome.
(d) Serotonin.

9. According to the author, what is one example of the importance of colors and light to many cultures?
(a) Lasers.
(b) Gemstones.
(c) Fireworks.
(d) Tattoos.

10. According to the author, why do religious devotees participate in practices to atone for their sins?
(a) To prepare themselves for judgment after death.
(b) To achieve a natural high, created by feelings of religious exultation.
(c) To achieve a better understanding of themselves and the teachings of their religion.
(d) To get a reprieve from feelings of guilt or inadequacy.

11. What topic does the author explore in Appendix 2?
(a) The availability and safety of various vision-inducing techniques.
(b) The uncommon accuracy with which most visionaries are able to recall their visions.
(c) The role of visionaries and mystics in the modern Western world.
(d) The personality traits common to most visionaries and mystics.

12. What is the main quality of the drug being tested?
(a) Hallucinogenic.
(b) Psychedelic.
(c) Stimulant.
(d) Sedative.

13. According to the author, what are the two reasons for the manner in which visionaries are received?
(a) Philosophical and chemical.
(b) Physical and religious.
(c) Religious and philosophical.
(d) Chemical and physical.

14. How did "pyrotechny" begin in Europe, according to the author?
(a) A pursuit of ever-greater displays for leisure and religion.
(b) Alchemists' pursuit of a substance that would transform base metals into gold.
(c) Weaponry for sieges and naval battles.
(d) A source of propulsion for machinery and engines.

15. How do utilitarians feel about art?
(a) It is only worthwhile if it is beautiful and functional, as in the case of fine architecture.
(b) It doesn't have much value.
(c) It is useful only when it is appreciated by most of society.
(d) It is a necessary diversion for humanity.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of these is NOT a specialist who the author feels should be consulted by an aspiring mystic?

2. What was a magic lantern show?

3. According to the author, what are the two ways to achieve a level of consciousness that allows for exploration of the undiscovered areas of the mind?

4. What film does the author reference as an example of the distorted documentary?

5. What is the name of the plant in which the substance being tested is found?

(see the answer keys)

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