Question

Directions for Summary: A paragraph is followed by four options which have summarized the passage in their own way. Pick the option that best summarizes the passage:
Brazil’s growth rate has been low, yet most Brazilians say their financial situation has improved, and they expect it to get even better. This is because most incomes are rising fast, with higher minimum wages and very low unemployment. The result is falling inequality and a growing middle class — the result of economic stabilization, improved social security and universal primary education. But despite recent improvements the Brazilian economy is still painfully unequal, with poor Brazilians paying the biggest share of their income in taxes and getting the least back in government services.

• A. Good economic indicators have masked the unfair taxation of the poor that is likely to destabilise the Brazilian economy in the next few years.
• B. Economic reforms have benefitted many Brazilians, but they are unaware of the impending problems from rising inequalities in their society.
• C. Most Brazilians feel they have benefitted from recent economic events, but the poor continue to be dealt unfairly by the state.
• D. With rising incomes and falling unemployment, most Brazilians are being misled into thinking that their economy is doing well.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

After examining the passage provided about Brazil’s economic situation, we must select the option that accurately encapsulates the main ideas and details. The passage highlights the following key points:

• Brazil's growth rate is low, yet most Brazilians feel financially better off.
• There is an increase in incomes, a higher minimum wage, and low unemployment, leading to reduced inequality and a growing middle class.
• Despite these improvements, inequality persists, with poorer Brazilians disproportionately affected by the tax system and receiving fewer benefits from government services.

Given these key points, let us evaluate the options:

1. Good economic indicators have masked the unfair taxation of the poor that is likely to destabilise the Brazilian economy in the next few years.
2. Economic reforms have benefitted many Brazilians, but they are unaware of the impending problems from rising inequalities in their society.
3. Most Brazilians feel they have benefitted from recent economic events, but the poor continue to be dealt unfairly by the state.
4. With rising incomes and falling unemployment, most Brazilians are being misled into thinking that their economy is doing well.

Option 3 captures the essence of the passage: although many Brazilians feel improvements in their financial situation, inequality issues persist, particularly affecting the poor. The other options either emphasize different aspects not central to the passage or suggest misleading interpretations. Therefore, the best summary is: Most Brazilians feel they have benefitted from recent economic events, but the poor continue to be dealt unfairly by the state.