Question

read the sentence from paragraph 12. do we participate in a politics of cynicism or a politics of hope? based on the sentence, the word cynicism means a. negativity and pessimism. b. details and bureaucracy. c. mistrust and scorn. d. division and difference.

Explanation:

The sentence presents a contrast between "cynicism" and "hope." "Hope" represents a positive, optimistic outlook. By contrast, "cynicism" implies a negative attitude. Among the options, "negativity and pessimism" (Option A) directly contrasts with "hope" in terms of emotional and attitudinal polarity. Option B ("details and bureaucracy") has no direct contrast relation with "hope." Option C ("mistrust and scorn") is more about specific negative emotions/actions rather than a general attitudinal contrast to "hope." Option D ("division and difference") also does not clearly contrast with "hope" in the same attitudinal sense as "negativity and pessimism."

Answer:

A. negativity and pessimism.