GRE Reading Comprehension
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Source: 2014
In humans, the pilomotor reflex leads to the response commonly known as goose bumps, and this response is widely considered to be vestigial—that is, something formerly having a greater physiological advantage than at present. It occurs when the tiny muscle at the base of a hair follicle contracts, pulling the hair upright. In animals with feathers, fur, or quills, this creates a layer of insulating warm air or a reason for predators to think twice before attacking. But human hair is too puny to serve these functions. Goose bumps in humans may, however, have acquired a new role. Like flushing—another thermoregulatory (heat-regulating) mechanism—goose bumps have become linked with emotional responses, notably fear, rage, or the pleasure of, say, listening to beautiful music. They may thus serve as a signal to others.
Question List: 1 2
In explaining the "new role" (line 7) that goose bumps in humans may have acquired, the author assumes which of the following?
- A Emotional responses in humans can be triggered by thermoregulatory mechanisms.
- B The perceptibility of emotional responses to other humans offers some kind of benefit.
- C If human hair were more substantial, goose bumps would not have acquired a new role.
- D Goose bumps in animals with feathers, fur, or quills may also be linked to emotional responses.
- E In humans, goose bumps represent an older physiological response than flushing.