PrepTest 157, Section 4, Question 17
Political arguments about biodiversity and the preservation of(443 more words not shown)
It can be inferred from(20 more words not shown)
- ASplitters are somewhat(16 more words not shown)
- BThe total number(11 more words not shown)
- CA proper goal(21 more words not shown)
- DThe degree of(29 more words not shown)
- EDisagreements about species(14 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
Sibley uses genetic evidence to challenge classifications, but he also recognizes a problem that better measurements alone may not solve. Evolution produces many degrees of difference; people choose a limited set of names and criteria, and some populations resist those definitions.
What we’re looking for
So don't predict that he dismisses genetics. Look for a view consistent with both its usefulness and the continuing difficulty of drawing category boundaries.
Working the answers
- A
The author notes political and economic stakes, but Sibley doesn't compare lumpers' and splitters' motivations. Having practical consequences doesn't establish which group is more politically motivated.
- B
Sibley's comments about relationships and definitions don't assess the accuracy of a total worldwide species estimate. We have no stated view from him on that numerical question.
- C
He says we must limit the distinctions we name for practical reasons. That isn't a recommendation that ornithologists deliberately reduce the total number of species. His point is that a finite naming system cannot capture every degree of difference.
- D
His use of DNA evidence makes genetic differences important to his classification work. Acknowledging judgment in interpreting those differences doesn't mean they should have little bearing on classification.
- ECorrect
More precise DNA comparisons would improve information about genetic differences without necessarily settling which differences deserve separate species names. Sibley's observation that nature resists our limited definitions supports continued disagreement even after the measurement technique improves.
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