Assertion–Reason (Two Reasons): Assertion (A): White-collar crimes are increasing rapidly. Reason (R1): People in the private sector are under great stress to earn good money. Reason (R2): The law is slack on white-collar crimes.
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AIf only reason 1 (R1) and not reason 2 (R2) is the reason for the assertion (A).
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BIf only reason 2 (R2) and not reason 1 (R1) is the reason for the assertion (A).
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CIf both (R1) and (R2) are reasons for the assertion (A).
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DIf neither (R1) nor (R2) is the reason for the assertion (A).
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EIf (R1) is partly correct and (R2) is partly correct.
Answer
Correct Answer: If both (R1) and (R2) are reasons for the assertion (A).
Explanation
Introduction / Context:White-collar crimes (fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, corporate bribery) can be influenced by both individual incentives/pressures and institutional deterrence. We ask whether each reason could contribute to a rise in such crimes.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- (A) Observes an increase in white-collar crimes.
- (R1) Highlights financial/competitive stress as motive pressure.
- (R2) Points to weak enforcement or lenient penalties as enabling factors.
Concept / Approach:Crime incidence generally responds to motive and opportunity (or weak deterrence). If both pressure (R1) and lax enforcement (R2) exist, the expected risk–reward calculus may tilt toward more violations.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) (R1) plausibly increases temptation to cheat when rewards are high and oversight imperfect.2) (R2) reduces expected costs (probability * penalty), further encouraging malfeasance.3) Jointly, these drivers can explain a rise in white-collar crime, supporting (A).Verification / Alternative check:Empirical patterns often show spikes where regulation or enforcement lags innovation/complexity.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:(a) or (b) exclude a relevant co-driver; (d) denies plausible mechanisms; (e) hedges without need.
Common Pitfalls:Attributing complex outcomes to a single cause; ignoring deterrence effects.
Final Answer:Option C: Both (R1) and (R2) are reasons.