Text 1: Economist Dr. Rachel Kim advocates for basic income. "Unconditional cash transfers respect individual autonomy," Kim argues. "Recipients know their needs better than bureaucrats. Basic income trusts people to make their own decisions."
Text 2: Policy analyst Dr. James Chen studies program design. "Unrestricted cash can fund harmful behaviors in some recipients," Chen observes. "Targeted programs ensure resources reach intended purposes. The autonomy argument assumes all choices merit equal support."
What implicit assumption in Kim's argument does Chen's response challenge?
That cash can be distributed at all
That all autonomous choices should receive equal public support
That individuals have any preferences
That bureaucrats exist in government
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. Kim values autonomy—letting recipients decide. Chen questions whether autonomy justifies supporting "harmful" choices equally. The assumption challenged is that all choices merit equal support.
- Evidence: Chen: "assumes all choices merit equal support."
- Reasoning: Respecting autonomy doesn't require funding all choices equally.
- Conclusion: Chen challenges equal support for all autonomous choices.
Choice A is incorrect because distribution mechanics aren't disputed. Choice C is incorrect because both accept individuals have preferences. Choice D is incorrect because bureaucratic existence isn't questioned.