AI-generated practice question — model-generated for extra practice, not a previous-year CBSE board question.
Gutenberg's deliberate imitation of handwritten manuscripts reveals that a new technology must conform to existing tastes and values to gain acceptance. Since aristocrats dismissed printed books as "vulgar" and prized handwritten manuscripts on vellum, Gutenberg used ornamental metal type, hand-painted borders, and illustrated pages to make printed books visually indistinguishable from manuscripts. This shows that innovation cannot ignore social resistance — it must first appear familiar and acceptable before it can displace the old. The rich were even allowed to choose their own decorative styles, making each copy appear unique, since elites valued exclusivity. Only after gaining legitimacy could print gradually transform society.
Source: Chapter 5, Sections 2 and 2.1
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Examiners look for three things here: (1) identifying the challenge (social/elite resistance to new technology), (2) explaining Gutenberg's strategy (imitation as a tool of acceptance), and (3) the broader insight (new technology must appear familiar to overcome resistance). Avoid simply describing what Gutenberg did — the question asks what it reveals, so your answer must show analytical thinking. Keep the point about aristocratic exclusivity and unique copies, as the source directly mentions it.