Anthropologist: The recently discovered Makuri manuscripts, dated to the 12th century, contain numerous loanwords from the coastal Zandian dialect. Because inland Makuri villages were separated from the coast by the treacherous High Ridge mountains, historians previously believed there was no interaction between these groups before the 15th century. However, the presence of these loanwords proves that an extensive trade network must have connected these two groups by the 12th century.
Which one of the following is an assumption on which the anthropologist's argument depends?
- The Zandian loanwords did not enter the Makuri language solely through non-commercial forms of contact, such as migration or warfare.Answer
- BAny two geographically separated societies that share numerous loanwords must have established trade networks to overcome their physical barriers.
- CThe recently discovered Makuri manuscripts were authored by traveling merchants rather than by religious figures or scholars.
- DThe adoption of Zandian loanwords by the Makuri was the primary factor that caused the establishment of trade networks across the High Ridge mountains.
- ETrade between the inland Makuri and the coastal Zandians involved the exchange of goods that were essential for the survival of both groups.
Answer
The correct answer is the option stating that the Zandian loanwords did not enter the Makuri language solely through non-commercial forms of contact.
The argument concludes that trade networks existed because loanwords were found. For this to be logically valid, the author must assume that the loanwords didn't get there exclusively through some other mechanism. If the loanwords were introduced purely through war or migration, the presence of the words would not prove the existence of trade. Therefore, ruling out these alternative explanations is a necessary assumption (a 'Defender' assumption).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Necessary Assumption