Some Politicians Take Pride in Maintaining a Particular Point of View

question 2

Multiple Choice

Some politicians take pride in maintaining a particular point of view. They think that a change of mind would be seen as a sign of weakness. How is a change of mind viewed differently in science?

• A)A change in mind is not viewed differently in science and is still subject to much criticism.
• B)Science deals with facts that are confirmed by experiments. A "change of mind" in science, therefore, is usually the result of new experimental evidence obtained from experiments.
• C)A scientist who changes his or her mind is often perceived as less honest, while a politician who changes his or her mind is often perceived as less trustworthy.
• D)A scientist tries to understand many different points of view and so is apt to change his or her mind frequently.

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Definitions:

Socially Optimal Quantity

The level of production or consumption that maximizes social welfare, considering all costs and benefits to society.

Equilibrium Quantity

The quantity of goods or services bought and sold at the equilibrium price, where demand equals supply.

Negative Externality

occurs when the production or consumption of a good or service imposes costs on third parties not directly involved in the transaction.

Government Intervention

Actions taken by a government to influence or regulate the economy or specific industries, often to correct market failures or promote social welfare.