For decades, many resource economists argued that privatizing communal pastures and fisheries is the only way to prevent overexploitation. They asserted that individual owners, motivated by personal profit, would naturally preserve the long-term viability of their assets. _______, subsequent empirical research by political scientist Elinor Ostrom demonstrated that local communities can successfully manage shared resources without private ownership. Through cooperative rules and self-organization, these groups often prevent depletion more effectively than private enterprises do.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
- AFurthermore,
- However,Answer
- CConsequently,
- DFor instance,
Answer
The transition 'However,' is correct because it signals a contrast between the economists' belief that privatization is necessary to save resources and Ostrom's evidence showing that communities can manage resources cooperatively.
The correct transition must establish a contrast or concession between the two sentences. The first sentence presents the traditional view of resource economists that privatization is required to prevent depletion. The second sentence introduces Ostrom's empirical research, which directly challenges this claim by showing that cooperative community management can also prevent depletion. 'However' is the only transition that correctly signals this contrast.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Transitions: Contrast and Concession