Read the sentence, looking for clues
The semicolon in this sentence acts as a straight-ahead roadsign, so the second
part of the sentence will mirror the sentiment of the first. According to the second
part, people know that politicians are self-interested. Therefore, the first part
of
the sentence must also be saying that people expect their elected officials to be
biased.
Predict an answer
The "not" before the blank means the correct answer will mean "unbiased" or
"impartial."
Select the best match from among the
choices
(D)
disinterested, or "impartial," fits the
prediction perfectly and is correct.
(A) rational, meaning "having reason
or understanding," is incorrect because the fact that politicians are
self-interested doesn't mean they won't use reason in representing their
constituents. (B) competent does not
align with the clues. The politicians may use their offices to benefit themselves,
but that doesn't imply they won't be competent at doing so. (C) flexible in this context would mean "yielding
to influence." If anything, politicians are too flexible according to this author,
as they will take actions that benefit themselves rather than adhering to
principles. (E) diligent, like (B), is
not supported by the clues. This word means "hardworking, persistent," and nothing
indicates that the politicians are lazy.
Confirm your answer by reading it into the
sentence
People expect that their elected officials will not be disinterested representatives; it is
considered common knowledge that politicians always have their own interests at
heart.
TAKEAWAY: Don't overlook small words such as not. These little detour roadsigns can completely change the meaning
of the blank.
