Q14

[BarryM800]

Which part of (C) is wrong? Thanks!

[Laura Damone]

The phrase that really jumps out to me in C is "even if such strategies lead temporarily to economic stagnation." Stagnation is what the neoclassical economists think will happen if we check economic growth. In response, the steady-state economists argue that "alternatives to growth can still accomplish what is required of any economy: the satisfaction of human wants." That response doesn't accept that stagnation, temporary or not, may occur. Instead, it redirects to the idea of the real goal of the economy - the satisfaction of human wants.

Another, more subtle reason to be skeptical of C is the phrase "by adopting conservation strategies." Conservation is an example of one alternative to growth. But there could be others. That makes C a bit too narrow.

If you compare C to D, you'll notice that D redirects to the satisfaction of human wants, whereas C stays on stagnation. You'll also notice that D presents conservation as one alternative to growth (alternatives like conservation") without narrowing the scope too much.

Comparing the correct answer to a similar-but wrong answer is a great exercise for review.

Comparing two similar answers, spotting the differences, and then looking at the passage with those differences in mind is a great way to choose between two good-looking answer choices on test day.

Hope this helps!