Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Both I and II are implicit
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This policy recommendation prioritizes merit over tenure or seniority for promotions. We must uncover what must be accepted for such a recommendation to be meaningful and implementable.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
To justify rejecting seniority as a criterion, the recommender must assume that seniority is not a sufficient proxy for performance or capability (I). Additionally, to make a merit-only policy feasible, it must be possible to define and evaluate merit in practice (II). Without II, the recommendation is not actionable.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Negate I: If seniority perfectly reflected merit, discarding it would be irrational. Negate II: If merit could not be determined, 'merit-only' promotions become impossible. Either negation undermines the recommendation, confirming that both I and II are implicit.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that practical recommendations require implementability. Policy logic hinges on both normative and operational assumptions.
Final Answer:
Both I and II are implicit
Discussion & Comments