GRE Reading Comprehension

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The American people have an incorrect under-standing of what it means to be at war. At least, so argues T.H. Pickett in his conservative interpretation of American military history.

Pickett does present a wealth of examples, along with a refreshingly candid argument that America often goes to war for an abstract ideal such as democratization of societies, world peace, liberty, or freedom. For instance, the Spanish-American War of 1898 was ostensibly a consequence of national enthusiasm for the cause of Cuban liberty. And. more obviously, America's entry into World War I stemmed from a desire to "make the world safe for democracy." Although these observations are supportable, Pickett overstates the case when he argues that these abstract causes typically lead to a war hysteria in which American leadership can no longer enforce any measured policies.

Question List: 1 2

Consider each of the choices separately and select all that apply.

It can be inferred from the description of Pickett's work that the author believes which of the following?

  • A The desire for tangible rewards is not always the primary reason that America enters into warfare.
  • B Democratization of a foreign country was a rationale for at least one war that America has waged.
  • C Pickett provides a large number of examples to bolster his case.

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