Set 3: Command of Evidence (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Cognitive dissonance: holding conflicting beliefs causes discomfort. People resolve it by changing beliefs or rationalizing. Smokers who know risks but continue often downplay dangers.
What is an example of dissonance reduction?
Detailed Explanation
This question requires you to identify evidence that supports a claim. 'Downplay dangers' = rationalization to reduce dissonance. The best evidence directly and explicitly supports the stated claim without requiring assumptions. Match specific textual details or data points to the claim being made. The correct answer provides clear, direct support. Strong evidence directly addresses the claim without requiring additional interpretation. When evaluating options, look for quotes or data that explicitly support the statement. Weak evidence may be tangentially related but doesn't provide direct proof.
Key Evidence:
• "Cognitive dissonance: holding conflicting beliefs causes discomfort"
• "People resolve it by changing beliefs or rationalizing"
Why others are wrong: B (This option is incorrect.), C (This option is incorrect.), D (This option is incorrect.).