English Quiz for SBI PO Mains and RBI Grade B 2016 – Set 9

Directions (Q. 1-15): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below it. Certain words are given in bold to help you locate them while answering some of the questions.

The world is full of warring people: brothers, sisters, spouses, communities, nations—no one is free from this affliction. The meanings of words such as ‘brother’ or ‘spouse’ have become defunct, now referring to a mere biological/legal connection rather than the deeper relationships of love, companionship and friendship. The cause of the warring? Old rivalries, grudges, misunderstandings and conflicting value systems. The last goes to the root of it all. Many would like to believe that people are inherently deceptive, scheming, selfish or aggressive. However, this is not true. What is intrinsic to people is their value system—hierarchical structures of things they value most in their lives.

This may be money, power, adventure, security, health, career, studies, fame, the opposite sex, friends, family or even things like food, sports, dancing, partying and sometimes something much deeper, such as philanthropy, social work or God. Any one of these can take precedence over all others if it is at the top of a person’s value system. Understanding that other people don’t always share the same value systems as we do, is the first and most crucial step towards creating friendship or resolving strife. It makes it easier for us to let go more often. Too many discussions on trivial matters such as the distance from Mumbai to Delhi end up in argument and bitter exchanges. Learn to laugh and change the topic or just agree or keep quiet. Talk about subjects which interest others, not yourself, even if those subjects are truly boring. Remember, they mean a lot in the value system of the other person. Ask them how they got involved in the subject and about their experiences and opinions.

The more people you show interest in, the more friends you’ll have. But remember, do not assume that friends are primarily for helping you. That may be disastrous. That thought represents your value system. In serious matters, however, all individuals should enter a mutual, written agreement in the company of witnesses from both sides: even in dealings with one’s father, brother, sister, wife, son or best friend. Remember, they may not all subscribe to the same value system as you. Or, their value systems might change in the future. When young, many people subscribe to the value “all for one and one for all”. Later, after many thankless experiences, they furiously switch over to “every man for himself”. So, if a person refuses to enter into such a written agreement with you, make some excuse and just call off the plan. Even if it sours relations a little, it won’t sour them as much as it will years later. The master formula is: to get a friend, be a friend. But please choose your friends carefully. Their value system will determine their destiny. Associating with them may determine yours too.