2

Set 3: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The placebo effect—patients improving when given inactive treatments—challenges the biomedical model's assumption that therapeutic benefits require specific biochemical interventions. Brain imaging studies show placebo treatments can activate the same neural pathways as genuine drugs. This suggests the mind-body distinction underlying conventional medicine may be more porous than once assumed.

What conceptual challenge does the placebo effect pose?

A. Placebos have no measurable effects.
B. The assumed separation between psychological and physiological processes may be overstated.✓ Correct
C. All medical treatments are equally effective.
D. Brain imaging cannot detect neural activity.

Detailed Explanation

'Mind-body distinction may be more porous' + placebos activate 'same neural pathways' = distinction is overstated.

Key Evidence:

• "mind-body distinction may be more porous than once assumed"

Why others are wrong: A (Patients improve; imaging shows neural activation.), C (Not claimed—placebos work, not equally well.), D ('Brain imaging studies show' placebo effects.).

← PreviousNext →