9

Set 8: Rhetorical Synthesis (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

A student is writing about the precautionary principle. The student wants to evaluate both justifications for and criticisms of the principle. Notes: - The principle advises caution before harm is scientifically proven. - It prioritizes avoiding potential catastrophic or irreversible damage. - Critics argue it stifles innovation and ignores opportunity costs. - Application varies: strict in Europe, less so in the United States.

Which choice most effectively uses information from the notes to accomplish the student's goal?

A. The precautionary principle is applied more strictly in Europe than in the United States.
B. The precautionary principle is justified as protection against irreversible harm before scientific certainty, yet critics contend it stifles innovation and ignores opportunity costs—a tension reflected in its varied application between Europe and the U.S.✓ Correct
C. Some argue the precautionary principle slows technological progress.
D. Scientific uncertainty often complicates environmental policy decisions.

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question asks you to effectively combine information to achieve a goal. The goal requires BOTH justifications AND criticisms. Protection from irreversible harm (justification) vs. innovation/opportunity cost concerns (criticism). The correct synthesis will use relevant details from the notes in a logical, purposeful way. Focus on what the question asks you to accomplish, then choose the answer that best achieves that goal using the provided information. Effective synthesis requires selecting and combining the most relevant information to achieve a specific purpose. Not all provided notes may be equally useful. Focus on what best accomplishes the stated goal while maintaining logical coherence.

Key Evidence:

• "evaluate both justifications for and criticisms"

• "prioritizes avoiding potential catastrophic or irreversible damage"

• "Critics argue it stifles innovation and ignores opportunity costs"

Why others are wrong: A (Notes application variation but not justifications or criticisms.), D (Not in notes; general statement about uncertainty.), C (Presents only criticism side.).

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