Question

Diane: As we both know, the population of this country is aging. Elderly people generally prefer not to live in harsh climates characterized by extreme temperatures. Accordingly, in this country's coastal regions, where the climate is generally most temperate, the population is likely to grow, while other regions are likely to suffer population declines. Paul: I disagree. With few exceptions, regions where the climate is harsh are characterized by comparatively low living costs, a compelling factor for retired people with little savings and on fixed incomes. Which of the following is the most likely point of disagreement between Diane and Paul?

• A. The reason for the population shift toward coastal areas and away from other regions.
• B. Whether the country's current decline in overall population will continue into the foreseeable future.
• C. Why older individuals are likely to move to certain regions rather than others.
• D. Why coastal regions are likely to experience population growth while other regions will suffer population declines.
• E. Whether the country's coastal regions are likely to be populated primarily by retirees.

Hint:

When identifying points of disagreement, focus on the core reason each party holds their view and how they interpret the same situation differently.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the argument.
Diane argues that coastal regions will see population growth due to their temperate climate, while Paul argues that harsh climates with lower living costs may be more appealing to retirees. Their disagreement hinges on the factors that will influence population shifts.

Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) The reason for the population shift toward coastal areas and away from other regions: Incorrect. While this is a part of the discussion, the disagreement is more about why the regions will experience growth or decline.
- (B) Whether the country's current decline in overall population will continue into the foreseeable future: Incorrect. This is not directly addressed in the conversation.
- (C) Why older individuals are likely to move to certain regions rather than others: Incorrect. While Diane and Paul both discuss migration patterns, the point of disagreement is specifically about which regions will experience growth or decline.
- (D) Why coastal regions are likely to experience population growth while other regions will suffer population declines: Correct. This is the core of their disagreement — Diane believes climate is the main factor, while Paul believes the cost of living is more important.
- (E) Whether the country's coastal regions are likely to be populated primarily by retirees: Incorrect. This is not the primary focus of their disagreement.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) Why coastal regions are likely to experience population growth while other regions will suffer population declines.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(D) \, \text{Why coastal regions are likely to experience population growth while other regions will suffer population declines.}} \]