Why need a definite article in one and not in the other?

Question

Hi. Please look at the two sentences below. Why do you think a definite article is needed in one (if it is needed) and not in the other (if it is not needed)? Note that no. 1. has no article and no. 2 has one.

1. The current system emphasizes memorization of facts, not challenging prevailing thoughts.

2. The current system stresses/emphasizes the participation of all people, including juveniles.

Avangi · Accepted Answer

You could use the article in #1, but omitting it calls more attention to the idea of memorization, rather than the whole expression, "the memorization of facts."

If the word stood alone, you would not use "the." This program emphasizes (the) exercise, not (the) dieting.

It's the idea of "memorization" which is being contrasted with the idea of more active thinking.

In #2, the whole phrase is what's being emphasized.

You could omit the article, and it would focus more attention on the word "participation," but that's not what's desired here.

Cool Breeze · Answer

Avangi has given you a good answer. I'll try to give another one and then you can choose whichever you like best!

Memorization of facts, even though it is made up of three words, is thought of as just one concept without the article. Grammatically it is similar to abstract nouns, which take no article.

In the participation of all people the emphasis is on "participation" as an activity and of all people is in the back of the speaker's mind. On second thought, I think Avangia and I are really talking about the same thing.

CB

Avangi · Answer

Hi CB.  The abstract noun sans article is the key I was missing.  I knew that "memorization" alone wouldn't use the article but wasn't sure how to dispose of "of facts."  Thanks.<img src="http://www.EnglishForward.com/emoticons/emotion-21.gif"/>

Why need a definite article in one and not in the other?

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