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Set 5: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The anthropic principle notes that the physical constants of our universe permit life—if they were slightly different, we couldn't exist to observe them. Some interpret this as evidence of design; others argue it's a selection effect: of course we observe a life-permitting universe, since we couldn't exist in one that didn't permit life. Neither view is definitively testable.

What does the debate illustrate about interpreting evidence?

A. The anthropic principle definitively proves design.
B. The same observation can be compatible with fundamentally different explanatory frameworks.✓ Correct
C. Physical constants could have any value without affecting life.
D. All scientists agree on one interpretation.

Detailed Explanation

Design vs. selection effect—same observation, different frameworks, 'neither definitively testable.'

Key Evidence:

• "Some interpret this as evidence of design; others argue it's a selection effect"

• "neither view is definitively testable"

Why others are wrong: A ('Neither view is definitively testable.'), C ('Slightly different' would prevent life.), D (There are competing interpretations.).

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