Digital SATReading and Writing: Information and IdeasHard
A political scientist is analyzing voter turnout data across different demographics. A study found that in the last election, 65% of registered voters aged 65 and older cast a ballot, compared to 40% of registered voters aged 18-29. Among the younger demographic, 75% reported consuming political news primarily through social media, while 80% of older voters cited traditional television news as their primary source. However, 60% of younger voters also expressed distrust in mainstream media, a sentiment shared by only 20% of older voters. Which of the following is the most plausible inference about the factors influencing voter turnout in this study?
- AAge is the sole determinant of voter turnout, with older individuals inherently more likely to vote.
- BHigher trust in traditional media sources correlates with increased voter participation.
- CA combination of news consumption habits and media trust likely contributes to differing turnout rates.
- DReliance on social media for political news is a primary cause of lower voter turnout among younger adults.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A combination of news consumption habits and media trust likely contributes to differing turnout rates.
The data shows differences in both news consumption (social media vs. traditional TV) and media trust (60% young distrust vs. 20% old distrust) between the high-turnout older group and low-turnout younger group. Attributing turnout to a 'combination' of these factors is the most plausible inference, as the data doesn't isolate one as a 'sole' or 'primary' cause.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The data presents other contributing factors (news source, media trust) that vary by age, indicating age is not the 'sole' determinant but likely intertwined with these other factors.
- B. This is a plausible correlation, but 'higher trust' is only one factor presented; 'news consumption habits' are also distinct and relevant.
- D. While there's a correlation, the data doesn't establish social media as the *primary cause*; distrust in media is also a strong factor.
Synthesizing Multiple Inferences
Combining several individual inferences drawn from different pieces of data or textual evidence into a single, more comprehensive and nuanced conclusion.
- Requires identifying all relevant implicit meanings.
- Looks for overarching patterns or explanations across multiple data points.
- Often leads to a more complex understanding than any single inference alone.
Memory trick: Data, Deduce, Double-Check: Do all 'D'etails fit?