Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: If statement II is the cause and statement I is its effect.
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This verbal reasoning problem evaluates the direction of causality between a regulatory non-compliance situation and citizen complaints. When a noise-control directive exists but is not enforced, residents—especially seniors sensitive to late-night disturbances—are likely to complain.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Identify which event naturally precedes and explains the other. Non-enforcement of a valid directive is a fertile cause of continued nuisance. Complaints are a typical social response to nuisance and weak enforcement.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Map likely timeline: Directive → poor enforcement → persistent loudspeaker use → disturbance → complaints.2) Therefore, II (cause) plausibly produces I (effect).3) Reverse direction (I → II) would require complaints to generate non-enforcement, which is illogical.
Verification / Alternative check:
Policy non-compliance commonly precedes and triggers grievance reporting; the structure II → I is standard in civic-order problems.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a) misassigns causality; (c) and (d) deny a clear linkage; “None” is unnecessary because the linkage is evident.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “existence of a rule” with “effective enforcement.” The latter determines outcomes.
Final Answer:
Statement II is the cause; Statement I is its effect.
Discussion & Comments