114 學年度臺灣大學轉學生招生考試｜全部題目＋答案＋詳解

Critical thinking is often __21__ as a way to __22__ others harshly, but in fact, it is the process of questioning, analyzing, interpreting, evaluating, and making __23__ judgments. At its core, critical thinking involves making reliable decisions based on trustworthy sources. Critical thinking is not about __24__ negativity; rather, it allows individuals to break down complex problems, interpret information, and reach well-reasoned conclusions. This skill is essential in various situations, such as assessing political motivations and analyzing arguments. A critical thinking __25__ is developed over time through learning and practice, rather than being an innate __26__. In academic settings, critical thinking is __27__ linked to arguments. In college, students are encouraged to assess others' reasoning critically and __28__ their own arguments. To develop critical thinking, people must master key abilities such as defining the purpose and context of their reasoning, __29__ information sources, and presenting their arguments clearly. By refining these abilities, individuals can enhance their capacity to analyze information logically, make __30__ decisions, and engage in constructive discussions.

Limb loss affects millions worldwide, with around 1.9 million people living with amputation in the U.S. alone—a figure expected to double by 2050. These individuals rely on prosthetic limbs to regain mobility, which can range from artificial hands and arms to legs, knees, and ankles.

Traditional prostheses are primarily designed to replicate the appearance of missing limbs, but they typically offer little beyond aesthetics in terms of function. As passive devices, they do not restore natural movement, affecting the quality of life for amputees. For instance, individuals with prosthetic legs often walk with an unnatural gait, leading to reduced mobility and increased risks of falling. Additionally, the strain of overcompensating with their intact side can cause long-term shoulder and back issues.

To address these limitations, some amputees turn to bionic prostheses, which incorporate advanced technology to restore lost function. Research universities such as the University of Michigan and MIT are pioneering ways to integrate machines with the human body. These high-tech prostheses are battery-powered and controlled by neural signals, allowing users to translate thoughts into movement. Bionic limbs offer precise control over individual fingers, enable natural walking, and even support active sports such as motorcycling, skiing, and surfing. Unlike traditional prostheses, bionic versions can simulate touch through built-in sensors, relaying sensory feedback to the brain in real time. This advancement allows users to experience textures, differentiate between hot and cold, and feel as if the prosthetic is truly part of their body.

Despite these benefits, affordability remains a significant barrier. Bionic prostheses can cost tens of thousands of dollars, preventing widespread adoption among those who need them most. However, advances in 3D printing are driving down costs by enabling the production of low-cost bionic limbs using accessible materials. This breakthrough has the potential to make sophisticated prostheses more affordable, particularly for individuals from low-income backgrounds.

The development of bionic prosthetics represents a transformative step in improving mobility and quality of life for amputees. While challenges remain, innovations such as 3D printing are paving the way for accessible, functional prosthetic solutions, bringing hope to millions seeking better alternatives to traditional artificial limbs.

Impressionism emerged in France during the late 19th century as the first modern art movement, challenging traditional artistic norms. Pioneering artists such as Claude Monet and Edgar Degas, along with their contemporaries, faced rejection from the Salon, the official state-sponsored exhibition. In response, they organized their own independent exhibition in Paris in 1874, marking the beginning of a revolutionary approach to painting. Their works were distinguished by vibrant colors, an emphasis on light, unconventional subject matter, and thick brushwork.

Unlike previous art movements that favored muted tones and dark backgrounds, Impressionists embraced bright hues such as red, green, yellow, and orange. Their fascination with the interplay of light and color led them to paint outdoors, capturing fleeting moments in nature. Monet, for instance, famously painted the same scene multiple times at different hours to document the shifting effects of light.

The subjects of Impressionist paintings reflected their everyday surroundings. While the Salon favored historical, biblical, and mythological themes, Impressionists focused on rural landscapes, gardens, and riverbanks. They also depicted urban life, portraying bustling Parisian streets and the growing industrialization of the era. Their preference for painting outdoors influenced their choice of smaller canvases, allowing them to work directly from observation rather than relying on studio sketches.

Due to the limited time available before light conditions changed, Impressionists developed a distinctive style characterized by thick, sketch-like brushstrokes. Unlike the finely detailed figures of traditional art, their works deliberately avoided precision, favoring spontaneity and movement. Critics initially dismissed their paintings as lacking refinement, with art critic Louis Leroy coining the term “Impressionism” in a satirical review of Monet's work. Despite early skepticism, the movement gained recognition for its innovative approach.

Today, Impressionist paintings are celebrated worldwide, exhibited in prestigious museums, and sold for millions at auction. Their groundbreaking techniques and artistic vision have profoundly influenced modern art, shaping the way artists perceive and represent the world around them. Impressionism's legacy endures, proving that artistic rebellion can redefine the boundaries of creativity.