Passage Summary: Some writers claim Stalin went crazy at the end of his life because he was so suspicious and cruel. A critic disagrees, arguing that Stalin was always like that and that being suspicious is actually a requirement for a dictator to stay in power.

Reasoning: Writers characterize Stalin's later behavior as paranoia or insanity; the critic argues this behavior was consistent with his earlier rule and is a necessary survival trait for tyrants.

Analysis: To identify the point at issue, we must apply the 'Agree/Disagree' test to the specific characterization of Stalin's mental state. The writers use terms like 'paranoia' and 'morbid suspiciousness' to imply a psychological breakdown or insanity in his later years. The critic counters by suggesting these traits are functional and consistent throughout his reign, rather than a late-onset pathology. Look for an answer choice that focuses on whether Stalin's later behavior was actually a sign of clinical insanity or just the standard operating procedure for a successful tyrant.