Question

The author notes that those who criticized Darwin’s work when it first came out were A) misguided in attacking scientific discovery based solely on the work of another scientist. B) transparent in their jealous slander against his success. C) mistaken because other scientists had already proven what Darwin had not. D) correct in their complaints that his theory lacked sufficient supporting evidence.

Short answer

Option D is the best statement that describes those who criticized Darwin’s work when it first came out, as they were "correct in their complaints that his theory lacked sufficient supporting evidence."

Step-by-step solution

Read Option A

Let's read and analyze Option A: "misguided in attacking scientific discovery based solely on the work of another scientist." In this option, the critics are being described as misguided for attacking Darwin's work based solely on another scientist's work. We can't conclude that this is the case from the given passage.

Read Option B

Let's read and analyze Option B: "transparent in their jealous slander against his success." This option suggests that the critics were motivated by jealousy and slandered Darwin's work. There is no information in the passage to support this claim.

Read Option C

Let's read and analyze Option C: "mistaken because other scientists had already proven what Darwin had not." This option suggests the critics were wrong because other scientists had already proven Darwin's theories. There is no mention of other scientists' work or any evidence to support this claim in the passage.

Read Option D

Let's read and analyze Option D: "correct in their complaints that his theory lacked sufficient supporting evidence." This option says that the critics were right in their claim that Darwin's theory lacked the necessary evidence. While we can't say with certainty that the critics were right, it is the only option that presents a reasonable critique based on the passage.

Choose the correct option

Based on our analysis, we can see that the best statement that describes those who criticized Darwin’s work when it first came out is Option D: "correct in their complaints that his theory lacked sufficient supporting evidence."

Key concepts

Critical Analysis

When delving into the world of critical analysis, especially in the context of SAT reading comprehension, it's essential to evaluate arguments objectively. Critical analysis involves examining not just the surface argument, but also understanding its structure, implications, and the evidence provided. This technique enables one to discern underlying assumptions and biases.
Engaging in critical analysis requires developing a keen eye for detail and an inquisitive mindset. Start by questioning the validity of the claims presented. For instance:

• What evidence backs up the argument?
• Are there any logical fallacies or contradictions?
• What are the potential biases of the author?

These questions help deepen your understanding and provide a thorough critique of a passage. Applying these strategies to contexts like analyzing criticisms of Darwin's theory can reveal whether the critiques are founded on solid reasoning or just speculative arguments.

Darwin's Theory

Charles Darwin's groundbreaking theory sparked significant debates upon its release. At its core, Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection proposed that species evolve over time through the survival of the fittest. This means that organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce, passing on advantageous traits.
Despite its revolutionary perspective, Darwin's work faced intense scrutiny and criticism due to the lack of direct evidence at the time. Critics argued that while the theory was compelling, it needed more empirical data to support such a significant scientific shift.
Understanding Darwin's theory is crucial, as it laid the foundation for modern biology, impacting how we understand life's complexity. It's a seminal example of how scientific theories evolve and the rigorous examination they must endure before gaining wider acceptance.

Scientific Criticism

Scientific criticism plays a vital role in the evolution of scientific theories. When new theories like Darwin's were introduced, they were met with skepticism and required substantial evidence for validation. Critics of Darwin's theory pointed out the limited empirical evidence available at the time, arguing that his ideas lacked the necessary scientific support.
Criticism in science is constructive, serving to refine theories and encourage further research. It challenges scientists to rigorously test and strengthen their hypotheses. However, it's important to differentiate between constructive criticism, which is based on evidence and reason, and criticism driven by bias or lack of understanding.

• Constructive criticism enhances scientific progress.
• It demands robust evidence and more profound exploration.
• Motivates researchers to address gaps and improve their arguments.

This reflective approach is essential in increasing the credibility and acceptance of scientific theories.

Reading Strategies

Developing effective reading strategies is crucial for tackling SAT Reading Comprehension questions. One key strategy is active reading, where you engage with the text by asking questions and highlighting key points, allowing you to better understand and retain information. Active reading can be broken down into several steps:

• Annotate the text by underlining or circling important ideas or arguments.
• Summarize paragraphs to capture main ideas succinctly.
• Predict potential questions and answers based on the passage.

This approach aids in identifying the author's intent and drawing conclusions based on the evidence presented.
Utilizing effective reading strategies also involves practicing time management. Allocate time wisely so you can read thoroughly without feeling rushed, ensuring that you have enough time to review and select the best answers. These strategies equip you with the skills to dissect complex texts and confidently answer comprehension questions.