PrepTest 125, Section 1, Question 24
In principle, a cohesive group—one whose members generally(440 more words not shown)
It can be inferred from(31 more words not shown)
- AGroupthink occurs in(15 more words not shown)
- BThe causal factors(11 more words not shown)
- CThe continued study(13 more words not shown)
- DOutside information cannot(10 more words not shown)
- EOn balance, groupthink(13 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
The researchers identify a recurring pattern: overconfidence, closed-mindedness, pressure for agreement, and suppression of doubts. The author uses those findings in the discussion of cohesion and groupthink. We're looking for a statement both would accept, so let's check the choices against that shared material.
Working the answers
- A
“All” conflicts with the final distinction: cohesion is necessary but not sufficient. Strong cohesion can allow effective decision making instead.
- B
The researchers identify a “recurring pattern” involving several factors. Nothing says the causes are unique to every case.
- C
The final sentence expressly calls for identifying the additional factors that determine whether cohesion deteriorates into groupthink. Further study isn't dismissed as fruitless.
- D
Being closed-minded to warnings doesn't establish complete immunity to outside information. “Cannot influence” goes beyond the described resistance.
- ECorrect
This captures their shared negative assessment. Groupthink damages critical thinking and judgment, so neither the author nor these researchers would generally expect it to improve a group's decisions. “On balance” also avoids the unnecessary claim that a group affected by it could never make a good decision.
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