8

Set 5: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

Network analysis of scientific citations reveals that certain papers become 'obligatory passage points'—works that must be cited to be taken seriously in a field, regardless of whether authors have actually engaged with them deeply. This suggests academic authority may partly reflect social convention rather than purely intellectual merit.

What does the observation suggest about knowledge production?

A. All cited papers are thoroughly read and engaged with.
B. Social dynamics and conventions influence what counts as authoritative in academic discourse.✓ Correct
C. Citation patterns are purely merit-based.
D. Network analysis cannot reveal anything about academic practice.

Detailed Explanation

'Social convention rather than purely intellectual merit' = social dynamics influence authority.

Key Evidence:

• "academic authority may partly reflect social convention rather than purely intellectual merit"

Why others are wrong: A ('Regardless of whether authors have actually engaged deeply.'), C (Social convention plays a role.), D (Network analysis revealed this pattern.).

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