Question

widening our universe of obligation
in a society, the universe of obligation extends beyond individual connections to include broader groups with whom there may be less direct contact. this concept plays a key role in the way communities and nations decide who to include and protect. historical movements often demonstrate the expansion of a nation’s universe of obligation to incorporate previously excluded groups.

• the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s in the united states expanded the u.s.’s universe of obligations to include black people and other diverse racial, ethnic, and gender groups. subsequent movements fought for greater inclusion of latinos, native americans, and women in the u.s. universe of obligation.
• national policies and social attitudes can reflect a nation’s universe of obligation, which determines who is protected or marginalized.
• the expansion of a nation’s universe of obligation is shaped by shifts in cultural awareness and policy, often prompted by advocacy and societal change.
• shared beliefs, values, and historical experiences help define whom a society feels responsible for and to whom it extends its protection and care.

why might national policies reflect a nation’s universe of obligation?

• policies are influenced by the specific groups a nation feels responsible for.
• policies are only ever created for the wealthiest citizens.
• national policies have no connection to the universe of obligation.

Explanation:

The text explains that a nation’s universe of obligation determines which groups it feels responsible for. The first option aligns with this, as policies would reflect the groups the nation is obligated to. The second option is incorrect (policies aren’t only for the wealthy), and the third is wrong (the text shows a connection).

Answer:

A. Policies are influenced by the specific groups a nation feels responsible for.