Finding the Right Word for Blank (1) in the Passage

The question asks us to choose the most appropriate word to fill in blank (1) in the given passage. The sentence containing blank (1) reads: "Thought without___ (1)___. is undeveloped thought." We need to consider the context of this sentence and the overall theme of the passage.

The passage discusses the relationship between thought and action, aiming for a "proper reconciliation between my activity and thought." The sentence immediately following blank (1) is "Action without___(2)___is folly." This structure sets up a parallel between thought and action. Just as action needs something to avoid being "folly," thought needs something to avoid being "undeveloped thought."

Let's look at the options provided for blank (1):

• wish
• action
• idea

Now, let's analyze how each option fits into the sentence "Thought without ______ is undeveloped thought":

• Thought without wish: A wish is a form of thought or desire. Saying "thought without wish is undeveloped thought" doesn't make logical sense in this context. Thought often involves wishes or desires.
• Thought without action: This option suggests that thought needs to be put into action or applied in some way to become fully developed. This aligns strongly with the passage's theme of reconciling thought and activity (action). The parallel structure with the next sentence ("Action without___(2)___is folly") implies a dependency between thought and action, where one needs the other for completion or effectiveness. Thought that isn't tested or applied through action might remain theoretical or "undeveloped."
• Thought without idea: This is nonsensical. Thought inherently involves ideas. You cannot have thought without ideas.

Considering the flow and meaning of the passage, particularly the contrast and relationship being drawn between thought and action, the word 'action' is the only option that logically completes the sentence and supports the passage's theme. Thought needs action to be tested, refined, and fully developed, just as action needs thought (as implied by the next sentence) to avoid being foolish.

Therefore, "Thought without action is undeveloped thought" fits the meaning and structure of the passage best.

Revision Table: Analyzing Blank (1) Options

Additional Information: Contextual Reading Comprehension

This question requires strong contextual reading comprehension skills. When filling in blanks in a passage, it is crucial to:

• Read the sentence with the blank carefully.
• Read the sentences immediately before and after the blank to understand the local context.
• Read the entire passage to grasp the main theme, tone, and flow of ideas.
• Consider how each option changes the meaning of the sentence and whether that new meaning fits the overall passage.
• Look for parallel structures or contrasting ideas presented in nearby sentences, as they often provide clues about the intended word.

In this specific passage, the parallel construction between the sentence about thought and the sentence about action is the key to identifying that 'action' is the missing element needed for thought to be developed, mirroring the need for thought for action to be effective.