MCAT Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills Question 102: Answer and Explanation

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Test Information

Question: 102

3. The author's attitude toward Shapton's book is:

  • A. predominantly critical but balanced.
  • B. effusive with praise and superficial.
  • C. approving and contemplative.
  • D. disparaging and plaintive.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

C This is an Inference/EXCEPT question.

A: No. One part of the main idea of the passage is that widespread acceptance of disruptive antigovernment activity can threaten democracy (see paragraph 5). Since the question stem asks you to find an answer choice that is not a requirement for democracy, this can not be the answer.

B: No. See paragraph 6: "the positive support by leaders for a political system is essential to its existence."

C: Yes. Paragraphs 4 and 5 explain that the population does not need to actively campaign for democratic ideals for democracy to work. In fact, such strong support for democratic values may be "impossible" (paragraph 4). At the end of paragraph 5, the author states that "absence of disruptive acts, not the presence of supportive attitudes, is crucial." Although paragraph 6 suggests public support for democracy is necessary when antigovernment leaders come to prominence, this is a specific situation, as opposed to the "general" view that the question stem asks for. Because this idea is not supported by the passage, it is the correct answer to this "EXCEPT" question.

D: No. See paragraph 6: "If some leaders are willing to oppose the system, it is crucial that there be no substantial number of followers to which the leaders can appeal."

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