Although the Text Notes That Some Legislators Do a Good

question 32

Multiple Choice

Although the text notes that some legislators do a good job of representing constituents whose demographic characteristics are different from those of the legislators, the book states that the social background of legislators is important because

• A) the Constitution says it is.
• B) it's necessary to remedy the sexism of the Declaration of Independence's statement that all men are created equal.
• C) some men may be able to represent women effectively (or vice versa), but racial divisions in this country are so deep that it's impossible for most whites to represent blacks effectively (or vice versa).
• D) legislators bring assumptions to their work based on their life experiences, and variations in life experience are likely to affect legislators' sensitivity to and awareness of certain issues.
• E) it is impossible for a legislator to represent constituents who do not share his or her religion.

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Definitions:

Heredity

The transmission of physical or mental traits from one generation to the next through genetics.

Environment

The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates, encompassing both natural and built contexts.

Reinforcer

Any stimulus which strengthens or increases the probability of a specific response or behavior.

Primary Reinforcers

Innate reinforcing qualities, such as food and water, that satisfy biological needs and do not require learning to become effective.