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

Short Answer Questions

1. As a whole, Lessing considered writers to be ______________.

2. When did the political group Lessing belonged to in Rhodesia fall apart?

3. Lessing believed that a belief pattern of "you-are-damned, I-am-saved" in society is ________.

4. Where did the miner's strike referenced by Lessing take place?

5. In what time period did Lessing grow up?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why was Lessing discouraged by the application of behavioral data uncovered through the "soft sciences"?

2. How did the ruling class in Rhodesia get others to go along with their beliefs?

3. What did Lessing mean when she said that groups will often "vilify their opposition"?

4. What was the purpose of cutting down a tree associated with a traitor? Why did Lessing find it ridiculous?

5. Lessing believed that if humans could learn from our history, we could change our future in what respect?

6. Why did Lessing feel that our ability to consider differing viewpoints might save the human race?

7. In terms of collective beliefs during her life time, what idiocy struck Lessing?

8. As Lessing looked ahead, how would people of the future feel, considering our lack of ability to change?

9. Why did Lessing believe the tendency to buy into vilification was a form of popular lunacy?

10. What is Lessing's prediction concerning what every viewpoint will become with time?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Lessing was raised in Rhodesia, where a small ruling class of whites dominated the black majority. Based on Lessing's theories, create an argument as to why the whites were successful in this endeavor.

Essay Topic 2

Lessing believed that, throughout history, a group mentality has prevented people from standing up to thoughts and ideas that caused harm to others. Citing examples from the text, discuss the various moments throughout history where group mentality was dominant over reason. Include the following:

1) Hitler's regime.

2) The witch trials.

3) Religious sects.

Essay Topic 3

According to Lessing, people have a tendency to follow a leader. Examine the concept of leadership and how it is acted out in society, citing examples from the text.

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This section contains 686 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample