Question #N145

The author is arguing that the concept of "natural" is complex. The author suggests that the idea of "natural" can be manipulated to support a variety of conflicting claims. For example, the author points to the way that "natural" is used to justify traditional methods of agriculture and the way that the concept of "natural" is used to promote industrial farming practices. In the end, the author concludes that "natural" is not a fixed concept and may be interpreted in many ways, and the author urges the reader to be cautious about accepting claims that are based on the idea of "natural." What is the author’s main point?

The author of this passage is most likely trying to
A. demonstrate that the idea of "natural" is a complex and ambiguous concept.
B. criticize industrial farming practices as being unnatural.
C. urge the reader to embrace traditional methods of agriculture.
D. explain that the concept of "natural" is a fixed and unchanging concept.

Correct Answer is: A

The author's point is that the concept of "natural" is not a fixed concept. The author demonstrates this by showing how the concept of "natural" can be manipulated to support a variety of conflicting claims. The author's argument is not meant to be a defense of traditional farming practices or an attack on industrial farming practices. Rather, the author’s goal is to show that "natural" is a complex and ambiguous concept that can be interpreted in many ways.