GRE Reading Comprehension

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Historically, sociologists have presumed that people will attribute certain characteristics to a member of a particular group when it is generally believed that most members of that group possess the characteristics in question. For sociologists Hepburn and Locksley, such social stereotyping has led to the broader question of whether people are cognizant of their own stereotyping behavior. Seemingly, if one knows that one holds a stereotypical notion such as "all members of a certain ethnic group are natural musicians," then one might also be aware that the notion that "a particular musician of that ethnic group is a great musician" is a corollary of that stereotype. However, people are most aware of their stereotyping when they have no information. When given information that conforms to their beliefs and the individual case observed, people become less aware of their tendency to stereotype and therefore more likely to engage in stereotyping.

Question List: 1 2

The author of the passage is primarily concerned with

  • A investigations into stereotyping and an awareness of stereotyping by individuals
  • B an examination of the relative truths behind well known stereotypes
  • C an attempt to prove that stereotypes are a result of ignorance
  • D a refutation of a broader question surrounding stereotypes
  • E a detailed list of when individuals are likely to be aware that they are applying stereotypes

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