1.
Which of these is sometimes described as "the father of modern linguistics"?
Correct Answer
A. Noam Chomsky
Explanation
Noam Chomsky is sometimes described as "the father of modern linguistics" because of his groundbreaking work in the field. Chomsky's theories revolutionized the understanding of language and its structure, particularly with his concept of transformational grammar. He argued that language is innate to humans and proposed a universal grammar that underlies all languages. Chomsky's ideas have had a profound impact on linguistics and continue to shape the study of language today.
2.
Which company is the brain child of Bill Gates?
Correct Answer
B. Microsoft
Explanation
Microsoft is the correct answer because it is the company that was founded by Bill Gates. He co-founded Microsoft in 1975 and played a significant role in its success and growth. Microsoft is known for its software products such as the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office suite. Bill Gates is often referred to as the brainchild behind Microsoft due to his vision and leadership in shaping the company into one of the largest technology corporations in the world.
3.
Who is the author of 'Capital in the Twenty-First Century'?
Correct Answer
C. Thomas Piketty
Explanation
Thomas Piketty is the correct answer because he is the author of the book "Capital in the Twenty-First Century." The book gained significant attention for its analysis of wealth and income inequality, and it explores the historical patterns of wealth distribution and the potential consequences for society. Piketty's work has had a major impact on the field of economics and has sparked debates and discussions worldwide.
4.
Who won the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2008?
Correct Answer
D. Paul Krugman
Explanation
Paul Krugman won the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2008.
5.
Identify a book written by Arundhati Roy.
Correct Answer
A. The God of Small Things
Explanation
"The God of Small Things" is a book written by Arundhati Roy. This novel, published in 1997, tells the story of two fraternal twins growing up in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It explores themes of love, caste, family, and societal norms, and garnered critical acclaim, winning the Booker Prize for Fiction in 1997. Arundhati Roy's writing style and vivid portrayal of characters and their complex relationships make this book a compelling and thought-provoking read.
6.
Which American psychologist shared the 2002 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences with Vernon Smith?
Correct Answer
B. Daniel Kahneman
Explanation
Daniel Kahneman is the correct answer because he shared the 2002 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences with Vernon Smith. Kahneman is an American psychologist known for his work on behavioral economics and cognitive biases. He is particularly famous for his research on prospect theory and the concept of loss aversion. His collaboration with Amos Tversky has also been influential in the field of decision-making and judgment.
7.
Which of these individuals delivered the series of four talks 'The Future of Medicine' on BBC's Reith Lectures in 2014?
Correct Answer
C. Atul Gawande
Explanation
Atul Gawande delivered the series of four talks 'The Future of Medicine' on BBC's Reith Lectures in 2014.
8.
Who is the founder of Facebook?
Correct Answer
D. Mark Zuckerberg
Explanation
Mark Zuckerberg is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the founder of Facebook. Zuckerberg, along with his college roommates, started Facebook in 2004 as a social networking platform for Harvard University students. Over time, Facebook expanded its user base and became one of the largest social media platforms in the world. Zuckerberg's role as the co-founder and CEO of Facebook has been well-documented, making him the most well-known and associated figure with the creation and growth of the company.
9.
Who developed the theoretical prediction that black holes emit radiation?
Correct Answer
A. Stephen Hawking
Explanation
Stephen Hawking developed the theoretical prediction that black holes emit radiation. This is known as Hawking radiation, which suggests that black holes are not completely black but instead emit particles over time. Hawking's groundbreaking work in the field of theoretical physics revolutionized our understanding of black holes and their behavior, making him a leading figure in the field.
10.
Which of the following books is Richard Dawkins famous for writing?
Correct Answer
B. The God Delusion
Explanation
Richard Dawkins is famous for writing "The God Delusion". This book, published in 2006, explores atheism and criticizes the concept of God and organized religion. It is a highly influential work that challenges religious beliefs and promotes scientific skepticism. Dawkins argues for the existence of a naturalistic explanation for the origins of the universe and human life, dismissing the need for a divine creator. "The God Delusion" has sparked widespread debate and has become one of Dawkins' most well-known and controversial works.