Set 4: Inferences (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Studies of juries find that deliberation often amplifies initial tendencies—jurors who slightly lean toward conviction become more convinced after discussing with like-minded peers. This 'group polarization' effect suggests that collective deliberation does not necessarily moderate views but can reinforce and intensify them.
What assumption about group decision-making does the finding challenge?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Does not necessarily moderate' but 'reinforce and intensify' = challenges assumption deliberation moderates. 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:
• "deliberation does not necessarily moderate views but can reinforce and intensify them"
Why others are wrong: B ('Slightly lean' = initial opinions exist.), C (Polarization produces imbalance.), D (Groups do reach decisions—more extreme ones.).