High School

Read the excerpt from Dr. Martin Luther King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail":

"Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will."

What is the author's purpose for including this sentence?

A. To condemn the insincerity of his critics' advice
B. To contrast the motivations of people in power
C. To explain the need for mutual understanding
D. To criticize people who treat others cruelly

Answer :

Final answer:

Dr. King's sentence highlights the frustration caused by superficial support in the struggle for civil rights, indicating that shallow understanding from well-meaning individuals is more harmful than outright opposition. He emphasizes the need for deeper understanding and genuine support from allies. This serves to illustrate the critical importance of truly engaging with social issues rather than simply expressing goodwill.


Explanation:

Understanding the Purpose of King’s Sentence

The sentence from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in his "Letter from Birmingham Jail" conveys a profound message about the frustrations of advocating for civil rights. By stating, "Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will," King emphasizes that inadequate support from those who claim to be on the side of justice can be more detrimental than overt opposition.

Analyzing the Context

King was addressing criticisms from clergymen who were well-intentioned yet lacked a deep understanding of the struggle for civil rights. Here are key points regarding his purpose for including this sentence:

  1. To condemn the insincerity of his critics' advice: King implies that without true understanding, advice is not helpful.
  2. To contrast the motivations of people in power: Those in power may not grasp the urgency of the situation, rendering their advice insufficient.
  3. To explain the need for mutual understanding: King advocates for a deeper comprehension of the civil rights struggle, highlighting that mere goodwill is not enough.
  4. To criticize people who treat others cruelly: While he acknowledges the ill will of some, he focuses on the harm caused by misguided goodwill.

Ultimately, King’s purpose is to highlight the necessity of genuine understanding in the pursuit of justice, making the point that true allies must comprehend the struggles they support rather than simply offering shallow reassurance.


Learn more about Dr. King’s Message here:

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