ParadoxDiff: Easy

Logic Breakdown

Passage Summary: Even though scientists can now find almost any paper ever written with a quick online search, they are actually citing fewer unique papers and just copying what everyone else is citing.

Reasoning: Despite easier and broader access to scientific articles through online databases, scientists are citing a narrower range of articles and following the citation patterns of their peers.

Analysis: The conflict lies in the fact that increased availability usually leads to increased variety, but here it did the opposite. We need to explain why the digital format might actually encourage conformity. Perhaps search engine algorithms or 'most cited' lists prioritize a small number of papers, making it easier for everyone to find the same few sources while the rest of the archive remains buried. Look for an answer that explains how the technology funnels users toward specific content.

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13.

Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the surprising outcome described above?

Correct Answer
E
Online searching made it easier to identify the most highly regarded views, which scientists prefer to cite. If everyone quickly finds and prefers the same top‑ranked or consensus articles, broader access paradoxically yields more uniform (not more diverse) citations.
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