Statement: Should a public holiday be declared upon the demise of important national leaders? Arguments: I. No. Unscheduled holidays hamper national progress. II. Yes. People would like to pay their homage to the departed soul. Choose the option that best identifies the strong argument(s).

Introduction / Context:Declaring ad hoc public holidays affects productivity, exams, public services, and private sector schedules. Strong arguments should weigh symbolic respect against systemic disruptions and alternative means of homage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “Unscheduled” implies short notice and widespread disruption.
• Paying homage can occur via state ceremonies without full-day closures.

Concept / Approach:Assess which argument addresses governance trade-offs more convincingly.

Step-by-Step Solution:Argument I: Highlights direct economic and administrative costs of sudden closures—policy-relevant and grounded. Work, schools, logistics, and healthcare can be affected. This is a strong, general argument against an automatic holiday rule.Argument II: Desire to pay homage is understandable but does not require a compulsory holiday for all. Respect can be shown through official mourning periods, half-mast flags, minutes of silence, or optional local events. As a justification for a blanket holiday, it is weak.

Verification / Alternative check:Many jurisdictions reserve full holidays for rare, pre-declared occasions while using ceremonial observances otherwise; this supports I.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:“Only II,” “either,” or “both” overstate a symbolic preference. “Neither” ignores the concrete disruption in I.

Common Pitfalls:Assuming respect requires suspension of all work; ignoring the cost to emergency and essential services.

Final Answer:Only Argument I is strong.