Text 1: Neuroscientist Dr. David Kim studies cognitive enhancement drugs. "Nootropics that improve memory and focus could level the playing field for students from disadvantaged backgrounds," Kim suggests. "If safe and effective, enhancement drugs might reduce cognitive inequalities caused by nutrition, stress, and educational quality."
Text 2: Bioethicist Dr. Patricia Lim warns about enhancement technologies. "Even if enhancements are safe, access would inevitably favor the wealthy," Lim argues. "Rather than reducing inequality, cognitive enhancements would create a new divide between enhanced and unenhanced populations. We should invest in proven educational reforms instead."
Based on the texts, Kim and Lim fundamentally disagree about which of the following?
Whether cognitive inequalities currently exist in society
Whether cognitive enhancement drugs would reduce or increase inequality
Whether scientific research on the brain should continue
Whether education has any effect on cognitive development
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. Kim suggests enhancements "might reduce cognitive inequalities." Lim argues they "would create a new divide." Their predictions about inequality effects directly conflict.
- Evidence: Kim: "level the playing field"; Lim: "new divide."
- Reasoning: Both discuss enhancement's equality implications but reach opposite conclusions.
- Conclusion: The disagreement centers on equality outcomes.
Choice A is incorrect because both acknowledge current inequalities. Choice C is incorrect because neither opposes brain research. Choice D is incorrect because Lim supports educational investment.