Question

which of the following statements is positive?
select one:
○ a. i am absolutely positive that there is a better way.
○ b. there is a limit to the income each year to which the fica tax applies,
but that is fair, since there is a limit to social security benefits.
○ c. social security payments to retirees should not be taxed.
○ d. social security benefits are not taxed.

Explanation:

• A positive statement is a factual claim that can be tested or verified.
• Option a is a subjective expression of certainty, not a factual claim.
• Option b contains a value judgment ("fair") which makes it a normative statement.
• Option c is a prescriptive statement (what "should" be done), a normative statement.
• Option d is a factual claim about the tax - status of social security benefits, which can be verified.

Answer:

d. Social security benefits are not taxed.