Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
Answer:In sociological literature, the concept of social capital is often treated as an unalloyed benefit that fosters community cohesion. However, sociologist Alejandro Portes has cautioned that strong group solidarity can also restrict individual autonomy and enforce conformity. Therefore, rather than being 【uniformly】 beneficial, social capital is a complex resource with both constructive and coercive dimensions.
Answer
The correct answer is a word that means in all cases, entirely, or by nature—such as 'uniformly', 'universally', 'entirely', or 'inherently'—to show that social capital is not always or solely positive.
The correct answer is 'uniformly' (or synonyms like 'universally', 'entirely', 'inherently') because the passage contrasts the traditional view of social capital as an 'unalloyed benefit' (entirely positive) with sociologist Alejandro Portes's findings that group solidarity can also restrict autonomy and enforce conformity. The phrase 'rather than being ________ beneficial' signals a contrast, indicating that social capital is not positive in all cases or in every dimension.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary