In the following passage, some words have been omitted. Read the passage carefully and choose the most appropriate option from the given alternatives to fill in each blank. Mark your answer for each question. In modern societies, the concept of freedom is often celebrated as an essential right. However, true freedom is not the absence of rules but the presence of thoughtful (1)_______. Without it, freedom risks turning into chaos, where individual actions undermine collective welfare. A society that prizes only personal liberty without shared responsibility may soon face moral and civic (2)_______. While people often equate freedom with doing as they please, meaningful liberty requires a commitment to boundaries that preserve dignity and (3)_______ for all. This balance is difficult to maintain, especially in democracies where voices are many and interests often (4)_______. Yet, it is precisely through dialogue, compromise, and mutual respect that freedom finds its most enduring expression. In the end, freedom divorced from responsibility is not progress, but a subtle (5)_______ of what it truly means to be free.
(2)
This question asks us to fill in the blank in a passage discussing the concept of freedom in modern societies. The passage contrasts the idea of freedom as merely doing whatever one pleases with a more nuanced understanding that involves responsibility and respect for others. We need to select the most suitable word for blank (2) based on the context provided.
The specific sentence containing blank (2) is: "A society that prizes only personal liberty without shared responsibility may soon face moral and civic (2)_______."
This sentence describes a potential negative outcome for a society that overemphasizes individual freedom ("personal liberty") at the expense of collective duty ("shared responsibility"). The preceding part of the passage mentions that without thoughtful rules and consideration for "collective welfare," freedom can devolve into "chaos." Therefore, the word for blank (2) should represent a negative consequence related to morality and civic life.
Let's examine each option:
Considering the context that a society prioritizing personal liberty over shared responsibility risks descending into "chaos" and undermining "collective welfare," the most fitting word for blank (2) is collapse. Such a society could indeed face a moral and civic collapse due to the erosion of shared values and accountability.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.