PSAT Reading Question 383: Answer and Explanation

Question: 383

Washington postulates that the major domestic threat to American independence and prosperity is

• A. patriotism.
• B. disunity.
• C. political isolationism.
• D. impartiality.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) Lines 19–20 state that if Americans remain "one people," they will be able to fend off foreign threats. So by implication, if Americans are disunited, they will encounter major threats to their independence and prosperity. Choice (A) is not correct because these statements about unity would serve to encourage patriotism as a helpful virtue to American independence. Choices (C) and (D) are not right because Washington advocates avoiding "artificial ties" (line 16) with other countries by being more neutral and isolated.