#15 - Specific Reference, Must Be True, Purpose

[Administrator]

Complete Question Explanation

The correct answer choice is (A).

Answer choice (A): This is the correct answer choice.

Answer choice (B):

Answer choice (C):

Answer choice (D):

Answer choice (E):

This explanation is still in progress. Please post any questions below!

[est15]

Hi, I took "ecological mystique" to mean that the equilibrium model became something that was surrounded by mystery. I'm having trouble understanding though how that would support answer choice A.

[Nikki Siclunov]

Hi,

Your interpretation of "ecological mystique" is a bit too literal. In lines 55-58, the author describes how the reformers blindly adhered to Clement's equilibrium model, almost as if it was something magical, or mystical. They seem to have interpreted the tenets of his model as universal truths, ignoring competing perspectives. In other words, the author refers to Clement's model of ecology as a "mystique" in order to underscore the fervor with which 20th century reformers adhered to it.

There is no evidence suggesting that model was "mystical" in a sense that it was difficult to understand, which is argued in answer choice (D). Specific Reference Function questions almost always require a more thorough understanding of the context in which the quoted reference appears, and their answers should generally be prephrased.

Thanks!