Cause & Effect — Identify the Relationship: I. Ramanujam was born to parents from a socio-economically disadvantaged community. II. Ramanujam secured a plum government job easily. Which option best captures the causal link between I and II?
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AIf statement I is the cause and statement II is its effect
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BIf statement II is the cause and statement I is its effect
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CIf both statements I and II are independent causes
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DIf both statements I and II are effects of independent causes
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EIf I and II are unrelated facts
Answer
Correct Answer: If both statements I and II are effects of independent causes
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Here, a biographical fact (disadvantaged birth) is paired with an outcome (easy access to a plum government job). The test is to check whether a clear cause–effect link is stated or implied.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- I: Disadvantaged background.
- II: Easily secured a top government job.
- No intervening policy facts (e.g., explicit reservation pathway stated) or merit-based evidence are given.
Concept / Approach:Without an explicit link (like quota specifics, exam performance, or targeted scheme), asserting I→II or II→I is speculative. More plausibly, both are outcomes of separate underlying factors: I could be an effect of socio-economic structures; II could be an effect of talent, preparation, or recruitment processes.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Check if I logically explains II: not necessarily—being disadvantaged does not by itself guarantee an easy plum job.2) Check if II explains I: equally implausible—securing a job later does not cause one’s disadvantaged birth.3) Conclude both may be effects of different causes (independent lines): social background vs. later achievements/systems.Verification / Alternative check:A causal claim would need bridging premises (e.g., reservation criteria met, special recruitment). Absent these, independence is safer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Any directionality claims (a/b) overreach; unrelated (e) is too strong since both involve Ramanujam’s life but still lack causal tie.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming causation from temporal order or salient social narratives without stated premises.
Final Answer:Option D: Both statements I and II are effects of independent causes.