Progressive taxation systems impose higher rates on wealthy individuals to reduce income inequality. Supporters argue these policies generate substant...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
Progressive taxation systems impose higher rates on wealthy individuals to reduce income inequality. Supporters argue these policies generate substantial revenue for social programs while promoting economic fairness. _____ critics contend that excessive tax burdens on high earners can discourage investment and economic growth.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Similarly,
However,
Furthermore,
Therefore,
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Progressive taxation systems impose higher rates on wealthy individuals to reduce income inequality." |
|
| "Supporters argue these policies generate substantial revenue for social programs while promoting economic fairness." |
|
| "[MISSING TRANSITION]" |
|
| "critics contend that excessive tax burdens on high earners can discourage investment and economic growth." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: The passage presents both supportive and critical perspectives on progressive taxation systems.
Argument Flow: The passage introduces progressive taxation, presents supporters' arguments about its benefits, then transitions to critics' concerns about its potential economic drawbacks.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- The right answer should tell us:
- The transition must connect supporters' positive view with critics' negative view
- This represents a contrast or opposition in perspectives
- The word should signal that we're shifting from one viewpoint to its opposite
So the right answer should show contrast or opposition between the two different perspectives on progressive taxation.
Similarly,
Similarly
✗ Incorrect
- This word suggests the critics agree with or add to the supporters' view. This contradicts the content since critics present opposing concerns.
However,
However
✓ Correct
- This word perfectly signals the contrast between supporters and critics. It matches our prethinking by showing opposition between the two viewpoints. Creates the logical flow from positive arguments to opposing concerns.
Furthermore,
Furthermore
✗ Incorrect
- This word suggests adding more support or continuing the same line of thinking. This contradicts the shift from supportive to critical perspectives.
Therefore,
Therefore
✗ Incorrect
- This word suggests the critics' view logically follows from the supporters' view. This makes no sense since critics oppose rather than build upon supporters' arguments.