Set 4: Inferences (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The construction of the transcontinental railroad transformed the American West, enabling faster settlement and commerce. It also had devastating effects on Indigenous populations, who were displaced from ancestral lands, and on ecosystems, as bison were hunted nearly to extinction to feed railway workers.

What can be inferred about technological progress?

A. Indigenous populations benefited from the railroad.

B. Bison populations increased after the railroad was built.

C. Progress often involves complex tradeoffs, with benefits and harms unequally distributed.✓ Correct

D. Major technological achievements never have negative consequences.

Detailed Explanation

This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. Faster commerce for some, displacement and extinction for others—unequal distribution of 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:

• "faster settlement and commerce"

• "devastating effects on Indigenous populations"

Why others are wrong: A (They were 'displaced.'), B ('Hunted nearly to extinction.'), D ('Devastating effects' are mentioned.).

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