
Evolved to be Lazy The principle of least effort ![]() Discussion Questions Q1 In your own words, please briefly summarize the article. Q2 What part of the reading resonated with you most? Q3 The article mentions an "internal monologue" when deciding whether to pick up litter. Do you ever have similar thoughts when you see something that needs to be done, like cleaning up or helping someone? Q4 The article talks about expecting someone else to take care of problems. Do you think this happens often in your daily life? Can you think of an example where you expected someone else to handle something? Q5 The principle of "least effort" means humans prefer doing things with the least amount of energy. Do you think this principle is helpful or harmful in everyday life? Can you give an example? Q6 Have you ever experienced "social loafing," where you did less work because you thought others would do more? How did that situation turn out? Q7 According to the article, we sometimes "shirk" responsibilities for convenience. Can you think of a time when you avoided doing something because it was too easy to ignore? Q8 The article says that "mental and physical laziness" has helped humans evolve. Do you think being lazy can be a good thing in certain situations? Why or why not? Q9 Do you think it is important to work hard in a group project? What could happen if everyone decided to do less work? Have you ever had a positive or negative experience in a group project? Q10 How do you feel when you see someone working hard while others do not contribute? Do you think it is fair? What would you do in that situation? Q11 The article mentions that if we didn't have "laziness" or the tendency to take shortcuts, everyday tasks would be exhausting. Can you think of a small task that you usually do without thinking? How would it change if you had to focus on every little detail? Q12 If you have a question or questions that you'd like to discuss during your class, please write them down. Expressions qualms a feeling of uneasiness or doubt 例句 1 She had no qualms about quitting her job to travel the world. 例句 2 He expressed qualms about the decision to invest in such a risky project. evolutionary merits the advantages or beneficial traits that help a species to survive and reproduce 例句 1 The study focused on the evolutionary merits of different animal behaviors. 例句 2 Understanding the evolutionary merits of certain traits can help explain how species adapt to their environment. exerting to apply force, effort, or influence 例句 1 She was exerting all her energy to finish the project on time. 例句 2 He was exerting pressure on the team to meet the deadline. shirk to avoid or neglect a responsibility or duty 例句 1 He was accused of shirking his duties at work. 例句 2 It’s important not to shirk your responsibilities, no matter how difficult they may seem. pursuit the act of chasing or seeking something 例句 1 Her pursuit of excellence in every task was admired by her colleagues. 例句 2 In the pursuit of happiness, one must often overcome many obstacles. |
| *本教材是专爲使用Ringle学习英文的学员设计。 |