Question

Which statement most accurately presents the author's sense of the relationship between the "spoken word" (line 64) and the "theories and models of the social sciences" (lines 64-65)?

• A. Theories and models must come first in order to make sense of the spoken word.
• B. The spoken word makes general theories and models unnecessary.
• C. Theories and models cannot account for quantitative data as well as the spoken word can.
• D. The spoken word is more likely to introduce errors into the historical record than are theories and models.
• E. The spoken word makes general theories and models relevant to the historical record.

Hint:

When analyzing relationships between different sources (like oral history and theoretical models), focus on how one influences or complements the other in shaping a comprehensive understanding of history.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Understanding the context.
The author argues that the spoken word (oral history) is crucial for understanding history, and that theories and models must be aligned with the voices of those who have lived the experiences, making these models relevant to the historical record.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) "Theories and models must come first in order to make sense of the spoken word" contradicts the author's argument that oral history challenges and complements existing theories.
- (B) "The spoken word makes general theories and models unnecessary" overstates the author's position, which emphasizes the importance of aligning theories with the spoken word, not replacing them.
- (C) "Theories and models cannot account for quantitative data as well as the spoken word can" is inaccurate because the passage does not focus on quantitative data; it's about the narrative and subjective aspects of history.
- (D) "The spoken word is more likely to introduce errors into the historical record than are theories and models" contradicts the author's belief that oral history adds valuable perspectives.
- (E) "The spoken word makes general theories and models relevant to the historical record" accurately captures the author's argument that oral history makes traditional models more meaningful by incorporating personal experiences.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Option (E) is the correct choice because it reflects the author's view that the spoken word enhances the relevance of general theories and models in understanding the historical record.