Which of the following, if true, would strengthen Mariko’s position?

QUESTION

Which of the following, if true, would strengthen Mariko’s position?

A) Most countries either already have or are moving toward free-market economies.
B) Consumers do not always know exactly what they want.
C) The quality of life is much lower in countries that have little or no free-market economy.
D) Businesses in a free market exist primarily for the profit motive.
E) Businesses tend to want the most hardworking employees.

ANSWER

Answer: C
Explanation: C) If the quality of life is much lower in countries with little or no free-market economy, this strongly suggests that free-market forces alone account for a great deal in enhancing the quality of life. Choice A does not suggest anything about whether the normal operation of businesses enhances the quality of life. It would require the further assumption that quality of life increases as countries adopt free-market practices. Choice B, if anything, may weaken Mariko’s position, if consumer choices did not lead to higher quality of life. Choice D says nothing about whether businesses working for the profit motive enhance the general quality of life. Choice E is not relevant to the issue Mariko addresses.