View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who does the author believe can be a very real problem?

2. What is part of the reason for this discussion?

3. What is of great concern to the philosopher, regarding human nature and character of individuality?

4. According to the author, what is persecution?

5. Is it unethical to drive people down into being more slavish and less independent of will and thought?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does John Stuart Mill complete this book?

2. What does Mill have to say about one's place in society in the Victorian age?

3. What does Humboldt believe? Why might others disagree with him?

4. How would Aristotle have worded this previous statement about nurturing?

5. What does Mill believe is under attack?

6. With what question does the author begin this chapter?

7. To what is the author opposed? How does he support his beliefs regarding this issue?

8. What has been the reaction to people who have trouble finding their proper place and balance within society?

9. What is one reason for the author discussing trade in this book?

10. What religious group does Mill mention suffering from persecution?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The ability to express one's opinions is powerful.

Part 1) Why is the ability to express one's opinion powerful?

Part 2) How has the author backed this claim with previous discussions and evidence?

Part 3) How is the ability to express one's opinion important to you? How has this freedom affected your life directly?

Essay Topic 2

Wilhelm Von Humboldt was a nineteenth century German philosopher.

Part 1) Why is Humboldt included in this book? What does he have to say about liberty?

Part 2) Compare Humboldt's beliefs to Mill's. How are these valid opinions? Does Humboldt adequately back his own claims? Explain.

Part 3) Do you agree with Humboldt? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Copernicus' knowledge of the Solar system is discussed.

Part 1) Describe the story of Copernicus. Why does the author use this as an example to prove the importance of freedom of speech?

Part 2) If Copernicus had been wrong, should he still have been allowed to express his beliefs?

Part 3) What might cause someone to persecute and stifle those with whom they disagree? how does this hurt everyone involved?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 981 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample