Question 23

Passage 1 establishes a relationship that is questioned in Passage 2.

The text highlights that Passage 1 presents a generally positive view on happiness, while Passage 2 critiques the pursuit of happiness, suggesting it can lead to loneliness and weakened immune systems. This indicates a direct questioning of the relationship presented in Passage 1.

A) Both passages support the value of a commonly desired phenomenon.

This option is incorrect because while Passage 1 may support the pursuit of happiness, Passage 2 challenges this notion by highlighting the negative consequences associated with that pursuit, illustrating a divergence rather than a mutual support.

B) Both passages focus on the physical consequences of an emotional phenomenon.

This option is misleading as Passage 1 does not emphasize physical consequences but rather presents happiness as a valuable pursuit. Passage 2, however, does address physical consequences but in the context of critiquing the emotional phenomenon of happiness rather than supporting it.

C) Passage 1 establishes a relationship that is questioned in Passage 2.

This option is correct because Passage 1 posits a positive view of happiness, whereas Passage 2 challenges this by presenting evidence that the relentless pursuit of happiness can lead to negative outcomes, thus questioning the validity of the relationship established in Passage 1.

D) Passage 2 qualifies a claim made in Passage 1.

While this statement might appear accurate, it is not as precise as option C. Passage 2 does more than qualify; it fundamentally questions the premise set forth in Passage 1 rather than merely providing a qualification.

E) Passage 2 provides evidence in support of claims made in Passage 1.

This option is incorrect as Passage 2 does not provide supportive evidence for the claims made in Passage 1. Instead, it presents contrasting evidence that undermines the positive portrayal of happiness found in Passage 1.

Conclusion

Option C is the definitive correct answer because it accurately captures the essence of the relationship established in Passage 1 and the subsequent questioning in Passage 2. All other options either misinterpret the passages' intentions or fail to acknowledge the critical perspective presented in Passage 2 regarding the pursuit of happiness.