Question

in his 1995 book the demon - haunted world, astronomer carl sagan argues that the scientific method is the most effective tool for understanding the world and distinguishing truth from falsehood. sagan posits that science is not merely a body of knowledge, but a way of thinking that privileges evidence, logical reasoning, and skepticism. he cautions that in a world increasingly shaped by science and technology, the failure to cultivate scientific literacy and critical thinking skills leaves individuals susceptible to pseudoscience, superstition, and manipulation. throughout the text, sagan illustrates how scientific thinking can be applied to a wide range of subjects, from ufos and alien abductions to religion and politics.
which choice best states the main purpose of the text?
choose 1 answer:
a to defend the validity of sagans perspective in the demon - haunted world by contrasting his viewpoint with that of his detractors
b to present a counterargument to the main claim of the demon - haunted world that emphasizes the limitations of the scientific method
c to describe several key strategies for applying sagans ideas in the demon - haunted world to educational contexts
d to provide an overview of the argument sagan makes in the demon - haunted world about the importance and broad applicability of scientific thinking

Explanation:

The text starts by stating Sagan's argument in his book about the scientific method. It then elaborates on his view that science is a way of thinking (privileging evidence, etc.). It also mentions his caution about the consequences of not cultivating scientific literacy. And finally, it notes how he illustrates the application of scientific thinking across various subjects. There is no mention of contrasting with detractors (A is wrong), no counter - argument (B is wrong), and no focus on educational contexts (C is wrong).

Answer:

D. To provide an overview of the argument Sagan makes in The Demon - Haunted World about the importance and broad applicability of scientific thinking