Which of the statement(s) about the passage weaken(s) the argument presented ?
Scientists associate large brains with greater intelligence. However, in the evolutionary context it has also been identified that beyond a point, the size of the brain has not increased and yet after a particular period, in spite of no significant change in brain size humans have made significant progress. Certain researchers propose that this is because, while the overall brain size may not have changed, marked structural changes can be noticed in specific structures that run parallel to increase in human intelligence.
Scientists associate large brains with greater intelligence. However, in the evolutionary context it has also been identified that beyond a point, the size of the brain has not increased and yet after a particular period, in spite of no significant change in brain size humans have made significant progress. Certain researchers propose that this is because, while the overall brain size may not have changed, marked structural changes can be noticed in specific structures that run parallel to increase in human intelligence.
- Recent studies refute the hypothesis that region-specific brain development is necessarily associated with rapid human progress
- Neanderthal people's extinction was probably because of their brain size
- Homo Sapiens and its destruction in the future may happen because of its rapid brain development
- Recent studies show that Neanderthal people, with relatively smaller brains, were capable of complex language and social activities
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
To discern which statement(s) weaken the argument presented, we must first understand the core argument of the passage: Although the overall brain size has not increased significantly, structural changes in specific brain regions have contributed to enhanced human intelligence and progress.
Now, we evaluate the given options:
1. Recent studies refute the hypothesis that region-specific brain development is necessarily associated with rapid human progress: This directly challenges the main argument, weakening the claim that structural changes in specific brain areas are linked to human progress.
2. Neanderthal people's extinction was probably because of their brain size: This does not directly relate to the argument about structural changes and human progress. It does not weaken the stated reasoning about intelligence.
3. Homo Sapiens and its destruction in the future may happen because of its rapid brain development: While it is related to brain development, this is more speculative about future consequences rather than contradicting past structural changes linked to intelligence.
4. Recent studies show that Neanderthal people, with relatively smaller brains, were capable of complex language and social activities: This statement suggests that smaller brains can still facilitate complex activities, but it does not directly refute the argument concerning structural changes driving progress.
Upon review, the only statement that effectively weakens the argument by directly disputing the claimed correlation between structural brain development and human progress is the first one. Therefore, the correct answer is:
Recent studies refute the hypothesis that region-specific brain development is necessarily associated with rapid human progress.
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