MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 266: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 266

3. Suppose that a pre-modernist moves up from the lower class to the upper class because the government recognized his skills as a craftsman. Which of the following is true about this pattern of social mobility?

I. The pre-modernist experienced intergenerational mobility.

II. The pre-modernist experienced intragenerational mobility.

III. This pre-modern society practiced meritocracy.

  • A. I only
  • B. II only
  • C. I and III only
  • D. II and III only

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

Item I is false: intergenerational mobility is the mobility across generations. This usually occurs when the child has a higher or lower social class than their parents (choices A and C can be eliminated). Note that both remaining answer choices include Item II so it must be true: unlike intergenerational mobility, intragenerational mobility is the mobility within the generation for an individual. The pre-modernist moved up in social class within his lifetime. Item III is true: meritocracy is the system in which power and prestige are given to those who have the skills to be appointed in the upper class. The pre-modernist gained mobility through his craftsmanship skills (choice B can be eliminated and choice D is correct).

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