Question

Read the excerpt from Society and Solitude. Solitude is impracticable, and society fatal. We must keep our head in the one and our hands in the other. The conditions are met, if we keep our independence, yet do not lose our sympathy. Which best describes Emerson’s argument in this excerpt? It is impossible to practice solitude and be a part of society, and a person must choose one. In order to balance society and solitude, one must maintain both independence and sympathy for others. Being a part of society is preferable to being in solitude, as long as one has sympathy for others. Practicing solitude is preferable to being part of society, because it allows a person to maintain independence.

Answer 1

The correct answer is In order to balance society and solitude, one must maintain both independence and sympathy for others.

Explanation:

In this excerpt, its author Ralph Waldo Emerson refers to the idea of solitude and independence vs interaction with others. About this, Emerson considers socialization is essential "Solitude is impracticable, and society fatal"; also, he relates the interaction with others to sympathy, this is mentioned in "yet do not lose our sympathy". At the same time, Emerson still considers independence in solitude in "if we keep our independence". According to this, the author proposes a balance between the elements described or "In order to balance society and solitude, one must maintain both independence and sympathy for others."