Hey contributers... this is a fine RC passage from
MGMAT test. I had only one questions correct under exam condition.
Explanation for
second question:
This is a general question. In order to determine with which statement the author would be most likely to agree, we must determine the author’s main point in writing the passage. A breakdown of the purpose of each paragraph will help. The first paragraph highlights two differing views concerning the roots of jazz music, the second paragraph discusses the diverse origins of jazz, and the third paragraph states the author’s view concerning the origins of jazz: namely, that jazz is truly American because it is rooted in the confluence of West African and European music. More generally, the author believes “that the essence of America lies in the plurality of its roots,” or that to be American is to have a diverse background.
(A) The author believes that jazz should be called an American art form, but not because it was first played in America. Furthermore, the author believes that because of its origins in Europe and West Africa, not despite these origins. The author believes “that the essence of America lies in the plurality of its roots.” Therefore, it is likely that the author would believe the same about American football, that it is American because of its origins, not despite these origins.
(B) The author believes that jazz should be called an American art form because of its origins in Europe and West Africa. The author believes “that the essence of America lies in the plurality of its roots.” Therefore, it is likely that the author would believe the same about American football, that it is American because of its origins. Thus, this choice is backward.
(C) We have no information about the beliefs of sports scholars.
(D) CORRECT. The author believes “that the essence of America lies in the plurality of its roots.” Therefore, it is likely that the author would believe that the diverse origins of American football make it essentially American.
(E) Because the author believes “that the essence of America lies in the plurality of its roots,” and because American football has diverse origins, the author would be likely to believe that American football should be called an American sport. Thus, this choice is backward.