In his analysis of late-nineteenth-century urban planning, historian Marcus Vance argues that the creation of public parks was not a purely altruistic endeavor designed to improve public health. Instead, Vance suggests that municipal leaders viewed parks as a ______ tool of social management, subtly steering the leisure activities of the working class toward behaviors deemed acceptable by the elite.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word?
- Aaccidental
- Bcooperative
- utilitarianAnswer
- Dmalevolent
Answer
utilitarian
The passage indicates that municipal leaders created parks not out of pure altruism, but as a deliberate 'tool of social management' to subtly steer the working class's behaviors. This context emphasizes a practical, functional, and calculating use of parks. 'Utilitarian' means designed to be useful or practical rather than altruistic, which perfectly aligns with the described purpose of social management and control.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Determining a word's meaning in context by analyzing the tone and connotation established by surrounding details.