Set 2: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

The reproducibility crisis in psychology emerged when researchers found that many classic experiments couldn't be replicated with original results. Some blamed publication bias—journals prefer novel, positive findings—while others questioned whether human behavior is stable enough to expect consistent results across decades and cultures.

What does the crisis reveal about scientific methodology?

A. Psychology is entirely unscientific.

B. All psychology experiments are easily replicable.

C. Publication bias has never been a concern in science.

D. Structural incentives and assumptions about subject matter may affect research reliability.✓ Correct

Detailed Explanation

This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. Publication bias (structural) + stability question (subject matter assumptions) both affect reliability. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.

Key Evidence:

• "publication bias"

• "questioned whether human behavior is stable enough"

Why others are wrong: A (The crisis prompted reform, not rejection.), B (Many 'couldn't be replicated.'), C ('Publication bias' was explicitly blamed.).

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