Philosophical Reasoning – Human agency and options: “Modern man influences his destiny by the choices he makes, unlike in the past.” Determine which conclusion(s) follow: (I) Earlier there were fewer options available to people; (II) In the past there was no desire to influence destiny.

Given data

• Premise: Nowadays, people shape destiny through choices; this contrasts with the past.
• Conclusion I: Previously, options/opportunities were fewer (limiting influence).
• Conclusion II: Earlier, people lacked the desire to influence destiny.

Concept/ApproachThe contrast implies constraints in the past (fewer choices or limited agency), not necessarily an absence of desire.

Step-by-step evaluation• The statement suggests structural differences (availability/effectiveness of choices). Hence I reasonably follows.• The premise does not comment on internal motivation or desire; it addresses ability/effect. Therefore II does not follow.

Common pitfalls

• Confusing capacity/opportunity with desire/motivation.

Final AnswerOnly conclusion I follows.