Cause Identification — Government Ban on Eggs: Statement: The government decided to ban the selling of eggs in the state. Which of the following is the most plausible cause that could justify this effect?
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AA pro-vegetarian activism group demanded the ban.
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BShopkeepers were charging a very high price for eggs.
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CA contagious virus was detected in egg samples.
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DFear of hurting religious sentiments of a group.
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EEgg supply was abundant this season.
Answer
Correct Answer: A contagious virus was detected in egg samples.
Explanation
Introduction / Context:The stem reports a strong regulatory response: a complete ban on selling eggs. We must select the cause that most reasonably warrants such a drastic public-health–oriented action.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Effect: Statewide ban on egg sales.
- Candidate causes include activism, prices, contamination, and sentiments.
- Assume governments prioritize public safety in food bans.
Concept / Approach:Total bans on food items are typically grounded in safety/contamination emergencies (e.g., disease-causing agents), not price movements or interest-group pressures alone.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Evaluate (c): Contagious virus in eggs → immediate, compelling public-health reason for a ban.2) (a) Activism → may prompt debate, not usually an outright ban without safety grounds.3) (b) High price → invites market/competition remedies, not bans.4) (d) Sentiments → policy might regulate display/locations, but blanket bans are rare absent safety concerns.Verification / Alternative check:Food safety recalls/bans are standard when contamination is detected; this aligns with (c).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:They lack sufficient gravity or legal justification to support a statewide ban by themselves.
Common Pitfalls:Overestimating the policy effect of price spikes or pressure groups without statutory safety triggers.
Final Answer:Option C: A contagious virus was detected in egg samples.