Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. The author of the passage believes that flowers are creations of Nature’s luxury. 2. The author of the passage does not believe in the usefulness of flowers except as things of beauty. Which of the assumptions given above is/are valid?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: D

Explanation

The passage explicitly states, ‘The flower was not invented to please us. It flaunted its petals and spread its perfume to attract an insect. The insect carries the pollen from flower to flower…’ This clearly indicates that the author views flowers as having a functional, evolutionary purpose (pollination), not as ‘Nature’s luxury.’ Therefore, Assumption 1 is invalid. Furthermore, the passage emphasizes this functional utility, stating that ‘What we call a flower’s beauty is merely a by-product and a human invention.’ This directly contradicts Assumption 2, which claims the author does not believe in the usefulness of flowers except as things of beauty. The author clearly believes in their usefulness for reproduction. Therefore, neither assumption is valid. This question tests careful reading and the ability to distinguish between the author’s stated views and unsupported assumptions.