Fundamentals of Business Intelligence (FBI) Practice Exam

What does Deresiewicz suggest about the nature of old books compared to current news sources?

1. They provide timeless knowledge

2. They merely reflect conventional wisdom of their time

3. They are more engaging

4. They are less biased

The correct answer is: They merely reflect conventional wisdom of their time

Deresiewicz points out that old books offer insights that resonate with universal truths and deep reflections, as opposed to current news sources that often present fleeting information driven by the immediate issues of the day. The argument he presents highlights that just as news is shaped by the prevailing sentiments, old literature embodies the conventions and beliefs of their time, thereby showcasing a narrower spectrum of thought that is tied to cultural context. This distinction underscores the idea that while modern news may cater to present tastes and immediate events, older texts have the power to transcend their era by capturing the fundamental human experiences and thoughts that remain relevant, even if they are representative of the conventional wisdom of their specific historical moments. Thus, the assertion about old books reflecting the conventional wisdom of their time aligns well with Deresiewicz's perspective, emphasizing how historical narratives are framed within their temporal contexts. While the other options touch upon characteristics that can also be associated with old books, they do not directly align with Deresiewicz’s argument regarding the cultural and contextual nature of written works in comparison to ephemeral news sources.