For two or three generations past, ever-increasing number of individuals have been living as workers merely, not as human beings. An excessive amount of labor is rule today in every circle of society, with the result that man's spiritual element cannot thrive. He finds it very difficult to spend his little leisure in serious activities. He does not want to think; or he cannot even if he wants to. He seeks not Self-improvement, but entertainment which would enable him to be mentally idle and to forget his usual activities. Therefore, the so-called culture of our age is dependent more on cinema than on theatre, more on newspapers, magazines and crime stories than on serious literature. The passage is based on the idea that

The passage emphasizes the detrimental effects of overwork on individuals, highlighting how it leaves them mentally drained and unable to engage in meaningful activities outside of work. These activities include self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual pursuits. Instead, overworked individuals often opt for passive forms of entertainment that require less mental effort. Despite their capability for constructive thinking and personal development, the demands of overwork prevent them from engaging in these activities. Based on this discussion, options (c) and (d) can be disregarded. The author is not opposed to hard work itself but rather to the negative impacts of overworking individuals. Therefore, option (a) is incorrect, and option (b) emerges as the correct answer.