The following text discusses medicine.
The placebo effect—improvement in symptoms after receiving an inert treatment—was once dismissed as merely psychological and not "real." Neuroscience research has changed this view. Brain imaging shows that placebos can trigger measurable physiological changes, including the release of endorphins and changes in brain activity patterns similar to those produced by active medications. The effect is now recognized as a genuine phenomenon worthy of study, both to understand the mind-body connection and to harness healing responses.
How has scientific understanding of the placebo effect changed?
From dismissing it as fake to recognizing it as a real physiological phenomenon
From studying it extensively to ignoring it
From using placebos in treatment to banning them
Scientists continue to believe it is entirely imaginary
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the correct answer. The text describes a shift from "once dismissed" to recognition of "measurable physiological changes" and a "genuine phenomenon."
- Evidence: Once dismissed as not real; now recognized as genuine with physiological basis.
- Reasoning: Brain imaging proved it produces real changes.
- Conclusion: Dismissed → recognized as real.
Choice B is incorrect because study has increased, not decreased. Choice C is incorrect because therapeutic use isn't the topic. Choice D is incorrect because the view has changed.