Question #N128

The passage starts by introducing a new idea—that an individual's personal traits are often the result of a complex interplay of factors. This statement is then expanded on by presenting an example of the interactions between nature and nurture—a pair of identical twins who have different personalities, despite their shared genetic makeup. The writer then explains why this example supports the idea that people’s traits are influenced by a complex interplay of factors. What is the most likely reason why the writer uses the example of the twins?

The example of the twins in this passage is most likely used to
A. argue that identical twins are more similar than fraternal twins.
B. illustrate the idea that a person's personality is influenced by a complex interplay of factors.
C. provide evidence that nurture is more important than nature.
D. explain how twins differ from other siblings.

Correct Answer is: B

The example of the twins is used to illustrate the idea that a person's personality is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The writer uses the example to show that even though the twins share the same genetic makeup, their personalities are different, which suggests that other factors, such as their environment, must also play a role in shaping their personalities.