In the following passage, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives.
That is why publicly invoking these symbols has to be an act of responsible citizenship and not self-_________ demagoguery, but the difference can be hard to _________. The problem with emotive symbols is that _________ they can multiply the force of arguments, they cannot replace the arguments _________ debated. All persuasion harnesses symbols but principled persuasion must also provide arguments that can be _________.
an act of responsible citizenship and not self-_________ demagoguery
- Aefficacy
- Bserving
- Cesteem
- Dreference
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
The context contrasts an "act of responsible citizenship" with its negative counterpart.
The compound adjective self-serving perfectly fits "demagoguery," describing political actions or rhetoric driven purely by personal interest rather than public good.
The compound adjective self-serving perfectly fits "demagoguery," describing political actions or rhetoric driven purely by personal interest rather than public good.