Set 3: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Gutenberg's printing press is often credited with sparking the Protestant Reformation by enabling the rapid spread of Luther's ideas. However, printing also spread Catholic responses, scientific texts, sensationalist pamphlets, and misinformation. The technology itself was neutral—its impacts depended on who used it and how.
What does the passage suggest about the effects of new communication technologies?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Technology itself was neutral—impacts depended on who used it and how' = application determines effects. 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:
• "technology itself was neutral"
• "impacts depended on who used it"
Why others are wrong: A ('Misinformation' was also spread.), C (He invented the press, not the Reformation.), D (It spread many things, not just reformation.).