Question

The primary objective in the passage is to:

• A. critique governments for prioritising electoral gains over societal welfare by detailing reasons behind fiscal mismanagement.
• B. analyse how structural and psychological factors inherent to governance amplify present bias, undermining long-term policy success.
• C. argue that individual cognitive biases in leaders and political groups are the root cause of systemic governmental short-term focus.
• D. contrast the decision-making processes of individuals with those of governments to highlight how present bias impacts democratic systems.
• E. propose institutional reforms to mitigate the risks of present bias in governance, which has led to election-focused policymaking.

Hint:

In boldface questions, first identify the main conclusion of the argument. Then, determine the relationship of each boldfaced statement to that conclusion. Is it evidence for the conclusion? Is it the conclusion itself? Is it an opposing viewpoint? Is it a consideration that the author must address?

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
This is a "Primary Purpose" question. We need to identify the author's main goal based on the clues in the options and subsequent questions. The keywords across the questions are "present bias," "governments," "individuals," "long-term," and "structural factors."
Step 2: Detailed Explanation
The options suggest a passage that does more than just critique or propose reforms. It delves into the *causes* of governmental short-term focus.

(A) is too narrow. Fiscal mismanagement is likely just one example, not the sole focus. The passage seems broader.
(C) is too specific. It blames *only* individual leaders' biases, whereas the other questions hint at "structural" and "institutional" factors being important as well.
(D) is a component of the passage (a contrast is made, as per Q45), but it's likely a tool to support the main analysis, not the primary objective itself.
(E) is about solutions ("propose institutional reforms"), while the other questions are analytical ("analyse," "implies," "would occur if"). An analytical passage is more likely than a purely prescriptive one.
(B) is broad and comprehensive. It encompasses both "structural and psychological factors" and aims to "analyse" them. This aligns well with the academic tone of such passages and covers the various elements suggested by the other questions.
Step 3: Final Answer
Option (B) most likely captures the main analytical goal of a passage that would generate the other questions. It describes a comprehensive analysis of the root causes of present bias in government.