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On books

 Ruskin asserted that education should concentrate on nurturing the complete individual, encompassing their intellectual, moral, and aesthetic capacities. He championed an educational framework that highlights the role of nature, art, and literature in cultivating human character.  The education system in Pakistan encounters multiple obstacles, such as insufficient funding, subpar infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified educators. The curriculum frequently faces criticism for its excessive reliance on rote learning rather than fostering critical thinking and creativity. Although there are initiatives aimed at integrating more holistic educational approaches, like including art and physical education, these efforts are often limited and inconsistent.  Regarding Ruskin's principles, Pakistan's educational framework is lacking in various aspects. The focus on rote learning and standardized assessments hinders the development of critical thinking and creativity, which Rus...
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What makes people unhappy?

 In his essay "What Makes People Unhappy," Bertrand Russell delivers an insightful exploration of the human experience, evaluating the numerous elements that lead to unhappiness. Known for his wit, analytical depth, and philosophical acumen, Russell provides a sophisticated and layered examination of unhappiness's underlying causes. A key strength of Russell's essay is its acknowledgment of the intricate and varied nature of human experiences. He recognizes that a multitude of factors—social, economic, psychological, and philosophical—can contribute to unhappiness. Russell posits that unhappiness frequently results from a disconnection between a person's wants, values, and circumstances, which can stem from unrealistic expectations, insufficient self-awareness, and societal pressures. The essay also emphasizes the crucial role of self-awareness and reflection in attaining happiness. Russell contends that individuals must develop a profound understanding of their o...
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On liberty

 In "On Liberty," John Stuart Mill puts forth a persuasive argument regarding the significance of individual freedom and the boundaries of governmental authority. Mill's main contention is that personal liberty is crucial for the growth of human character, the progression of knowledge, and the encouragement of societal advancement. He asserts that individuals ought to be free to chase their own aspirations and interests, as long as they do not inflict harm upon others, and that government should only step in to avert harm to other individuals. Mill's essay stands out for its thoughtful and balanced treatment of the issue of freedom. He acknowledges that personal liberty is not unconditional and that there may be circumstances where the state must intervene to safeguard the rights of others. Nonetheless, he contends that the government should exercise caution in wielding its power, allowing individuals the freedom to make their own decisions and choices whenever feasib...
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The education of an amphibian

 Aldous Huxley’s essay "The Education of an Amphibian" offers a compelling examination of human nature, identity, and the intricacies of existence. Through his signature wit, humor, and philosophical reflections, Huxley urges readers to rethink their beliefs about the human experience. Central to his thesis is the idea that humans act as "amphibians," living within multiple, often conflicting, realms at once. This metaphor effectively illustrates the concept that humans exist in a state of tension among various facets of their identity. Huxley observes that humans are both embodied spirits and self-aware social beings, shaped by evolution and their own choices. This complex identity is both advantageous and detrimental, as people strive to reconcile their diverse selves. Additionally, Huxley posits that humans navigate two separate domains: the "world of words" and the "world of immediate experience." The world of words encompasses abstract ideas...
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Function of criticism

 Matthew Arnold's essay titled "The Function of Criticism in the Present Time" puts forth a persuasive case for the significance of criticism in fostering intellectual and artistic excellence. Arnold characterizes criticism as an unbiased pursuit of knowledge, highlighting the necessity for critics to be objective and free from personal and historical biases. He posits that a critic's role encompasses three main tasks: to acquire knowledge, to disseminate the best ideas, and to cultivate a conducive environment for future creative talent. Arnold's view of criticism is founded on his conviction that the sharing of ideas should be an impartial effort, untethered by national or personal preconceptions. He encourages critics to substantially engage with foreign literature and concepts, acknowledging the benefits of diverse viewpoints in enhancing critical dialogue. This global approach to criticism is commendable, as it recognizes the interrelations of literary tradit...
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No Cheers for Democracy

  Edward Said was right in pointing out that literature is the symptomatology of society . E.M. Forster has  covered nearly every social intricacy  of a common man’s life  in his essay.  Critiquing the social institutions such as religion, power, relationships and governance, E.M. Forster  has depicted that human reliance on  these institutions  is an inevitable paradox.  These institutions have a profound influence on human existence, making the dependence both indispensable and problematic.  Religion  fosters stagnancy, depicts Forster.  Faith ignores evidence and hence hinders the intellectual progress.  But having faith is unavoidable for man. In the end of his essay, he hints how man has himself failed religion.  Average human being is in a constant need of faith; it  can either be on an individual, who he calls ‘Savior of future’ or  religion itself.  Even when having meaningful relationships is i...
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Death of Art

  Past informs  the present  or rather vice versa .  The  preservation of tradition , transcending the individual needs, facilitates th e shared experiences.  T.S. Eliot, a writer who  spent all his life crafting  literature and experimenting with form and structure, invalidated his own tumultuous  struggle  by writing the essay, “Tradition and the Individual Talent”.  The past is always open to various interpretations and understandings. The dynamic property of the past indicates that nothing is really absolute, even something that is already known.  But the dynamism does not exist in isolation.  Edward Said, in his travelling theory depicts that  ideas require a temporal dimension, rooted in the past  in order  to achieve a meaningful trajectory in the present.  Eliot contradicts himself in the later part of the essay where he presents his model for ‘canon poetry’. He asserts that an exceptional piece...
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