A.G. Gardiner's On Superstition: Quiz and Flashcards Summary

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the main argument made by the author in the essay 'On Superstitions'?

Human beings are gullible and prone to superstitions (correct)

Superstitions are a product of modern society

Superstitions are based on rational thinking

Superstitions are a result of lack of education

What is the tone of the essay 'On Superstitions'?

Somber and serious

Formal and objective

Lucid and satirical (correct)

Critical and judgmental

What is the title of the collection of essays in which A.G. Gardiner's essay 'On Superstitions' was published?

The Beta of the Plough

The Alpha of the Plough

The Alpha of the Plough: Second Series (correct)

The Essays of A.G. Gardiner

What is the author's purpose in using the example of the murder at house number 13?

To show the absurdity of superstitions Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's attitude towards superstitions?

The author is critical of superstitions Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the law of averages in the context of the essay?

It shows that superstitions are irrational Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial condition of the patient when brought into hospital?

A sheer wreck Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the pimple on the patient's nose?

It triggered a mental state that hindered his recovery Signup and view all the answers

Why does the author hesitate to swear that they are immune to superstitions?

They are aware of their own vulnerabilities to superstitions Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about bus number 13?

The author regularly uses it and has not experienced any issues Signup and view all the answers

Why does the author choose to walk around a ladder leaning against a house?

Out of superstition Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's justification for avoiding walking under ladders?

To protect their family from potential harm Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's attitude towards the remnants of superstition in modern times?

Disapproving Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason why superstition was not considered a discredit in the past?

Because the functions of nature were unexplored and man seemed to be controlled by unknown forces Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the author's mention of turning over money in their hand?

It illustrates the persistence of unconscious habits Signup and view all the answers

In what way did people in the past view natural phenomena?

As a way to relate to their own existence Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the examples of Pompey and the battle postponement mentioned in the text?

They illustrate the way superstition was used to manipulate others Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of the author's statement that 'hands have habits of their own'?

That people's unconscious habits can contradict their conscious beliefs Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinction between the ancient Greeks and Romans, and people of the modern era, according to the author?

Their ability to jest at superstitions Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's main point about the role of fortune-tellers in ancient societies?

They were highly respected and influential Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of the author's statement about the farmer of ancient Greece?

The farmer was highly superstitious Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about the significance of the natural world in ancient societies?

It was a source of guidance and wisdom Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's view on the relative merits of ancient and modern societies?

Modern societies are superior to ancient ones Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the author's mention of the House of Commons and the clap of thunder?

It illustrates the difference between ancient and modern attitudes towards superstition Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying reason for the absence of house number 13 in many streets and hospitals?

The psychological impact of superstition on the mind and body Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the fact that some landlords avoid numbering their houses 13?

That the superstition around the number 13 still has an impact on people's decisions Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Florence Nightingale's advocacy of flowers in the sick bedroom?

To create a certain state of mind in the patient Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea expressed in the quote from Florence Nightingale?

Physical recovery is a matter of the mind as well as the body Signup and view all the answers

What is the tone of the passage when discussing the superstition surrounding the number 13?

Amused and slightly sarcastic Signup and view all the answers

What is the implied consequence of having a hospital bed numbered 13?

Patients may experience a slight set back in their recovery due to superstition Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Superstitions by A.G. Gardiner

Gardiner's 1931 essay "On Superstitions" is a frontal attack on superstitions that prevail in all societies and ages, using lucid reasoning and satire to convince readers about human gullibility.

The Irrationality of Human Behavior

People irrationally restrict their behavior due to superstitions, even if they don't believe in them.
For example, people may avoid houses with the number 13, even though the law of averages suggests that murders happen at any number with equal frequency.

Historical Superstitions

In ancient times, people believed nature was controlled by supernatural forces, and omens were used to guide decisions.
Examples include Thucydides' account of battles postponed due to omens, and Pompey's use of thunder to postpone elections.
Alexander and Caesar consulted fortune-tellers and augurs, and even Cicero trusted omens that ultimately led to his downfall.

Persistence of Superstitions

Despite scientific progress, remnants of superstition remain in modern society.
People may not confess to, but still exhibit, superstitious behaviors, such as avoiding ladders or preferring certain numbers.
Landlords and hospitals may also accommodate superstitions when numbering houses or beds.

The Power of Suggestion

The mind plays a significant role in recovery, and superstitions can affect mental states.
Florence Nightingale advocated for flowers in sickrooms to create a positive mental environment, highlighting the importance of psychology in healing.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Test your knowledge on A.G. Gardiner's essay 'On Superstitions' from his 1931 collection of essays. Explore how Gardiner critiques superstitions that prevail in societies and ages. Gauge your understanding of his satirical approach and reasoning.

On Superstitions by A.G. Gardiner Quiz

Choose a study mode