Question

read this quotation from paragraph 4.
currently, most people think that they ought to obey even the worst laws until they have persuaded the majority to alter them.
the author uses this statement to shape the readers perception by —
a. presenting a common and widely accepted opinion before refuting it
b. implying that he agrees with the belief that laws must be obeyed absolutely
c. condemning the average citizen for failing to recognize the authority of the government
d. establishing that the quickest path to change is gaining the support of the majority of people
question 17.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: The quotation presents a common view (most people think they ought to obey even bad laws until they can change them). Often, authors present such a widely - held opinion before refuting it to make their argument stronger.
• Option B: The author is using this statement to shape perception, and just presenting the view doesn't mean they agree with absolute obedience of laws. There's no indication of the author's agreement here.
• Option C: The statement is about people's view on obeying laws, not about condemning citizens for not recognizing government authority. The focus is on the opinion about law - obedience, not on citizens' recognition of government authority.
• Option D: The statement is about people's current view on obeying laws, not about the quickest path to change. The main idea of the quotation is not about the path to change but about the common opinion on law - obedience.

Answer:

A. presenting a common and widely accepted opinion before refuting it