Question

the origins of segregation
legislation is powerless to eliminate racial instincts or to abolish distinctions based upon physical differences.... if the civil and political rights of both races be equal, one cannot be inferior to the other civilly or politically. if one race be inferior to the other socially, the constitution of the united states cannot put them upon the same plane.
which statement best summarizes brown’s message in this passage?
○ african americans are not inferior to white citizens.
○ the law cannot cause or correct social differences.
○ legislation should seek to resolve social problems.
○ african americans should focus on making political gains.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: The passage doesn't focus on racial inferiority/superiority in terms of being "not inferior" but on law and social differences. Eliminate.
• Option 2: The passage states "Legislation is powerless to [eliminate] racial instincts or to abolish distinctions... If one race be inferior... the Constitution... cannot put them upon the same plane" which means law can't create or fix social differences. This matches.
• Option 3: The passage says legislation is powerless to eliminate racial/social distinctions, so it's not about legislation resolving social problems. Eliminate.
• Option 4: The passage doesn't discuss African Americans focusing on political gains. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. The law cannot cause or correct social differences.