Question

the following question has two parts. first, answer part a. then, answer part b.
part a
read paragraph 9.
superstitious beliefs have been shown to help promote a positive mental attitude. however, they can also lead to irrational decisions. trusting good luck and destiny rather than wise decision - making can sometimes happen when someone is superstitious.
how does paragraph 9 contribute to the development of the passage \the science of superstition - and why people believe in the unbelievable\?
it serves as a comparison between different superstitious beliefs.
it introduces a solution to the problems of superstitious beliefs.
it provides examples of the effects of superstitious beliefs.
it gives a detailed description of the worst superstitious beliefs.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: The paragraph doesn't compare different superstitious beliefs, so this is incorrect.
• Option 2: It doesn't introduce a solution; it just states effects, so incorrect.
• Option 3: The paragraph mentions both positive (promote positive mental attitude) and negative (lead to irrational decisions) effects of superstitious beliefs, providing examples of their effects. This matches.
• Option 4: It doesn't describe the "worst" beliefs, just general effects, so incorrect.

Answer:

It provides examples of the effects of superstitious beliefs.