Question #N606

The author of this passage believes that people often think in terms of "either/or" when considering different perspectives. For instance, the author argues, people often think that "if you have strong opinions about something, you're not open-minded." The author then challenges this assumption by suggesting that "strong opinions can lead to greater understanding." The passage concludes by stating that "having strong opinions can be a source of strength, as long as you are willing to consider other viewpoints."

The author’s primary purpose in this passage is to
A. explain the dangers of holding strong opinions.
B. argue that people should not be afraid to express their strong opinions.
C. challenge the reader to reconsider the relationship between strong opinions and open-mindedness.
D. persuade the reader that strong opinions are always a good thing.

Correct Answer is: C

The author’s primary purpose is to challenge the reader to rethink the relationship between strong opinions and open-mindedness. The author does this by suggesting that strong opinions can lead to greater understanding, which is not something that people always think is possible. The passage concludes by stating that strong opinions can be a source of strength, as long as you are willing to consider other viewpoints, which further reinforces the author's challenge to the reader.