6

Set 2: Central Ideas (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The following text discusses The Fermi Paradox. The Fermi Paradox highlights the apparent contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial civilizations' existence (given the vast number of stars) and the lack of contact with such civilizations. Various solutions have been proposed, ranging from the 'Rare Earth' hypothesis, which suggests conditions for life are unique to Earth, to the 'Great Filter,' which posits that at some stage in evolutionary development, life faces a barrier that is almost impossible to overcome, wiping out civilizations before they become interstellar.

What is the 'Great Filter' hypothesis mentioned in the text?

A. Technological civilizations inevitably destroy themselves with nuclear weapons
B. Earth is shielded by a barrier that prevents radio signals from escaping
C. There is an evolutionary barrier that prevents most life from becoming an advanced civilization✓ Correct
D. Aliens are already here but are hiding

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text defines it as 'life faces a barrier that is almost impossible to overcome, wiping out civilizations before they become interstellar.'

Key Evidence:

• "barrier that is almost impossible to overcome"

• "wiping out civilizations before they become interstellar"

Why others are wrong: A (Too specific (This is ONE potential type of filter, but C is the definition)), B (Not mentioned), D (Zoo Hypothesis (not Great Filter)).

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