May 2024 PRM

Question 1

Math Strengths

Answer 1

Predictive Power

Perceived Objectivity

Precision and Clarity

Scalability

Question 2

Predictive Power

Answer 2

Using algorithms and probabilities, mathematics can create systems (e.g., predictive analytics) that shape our expectations
Ex. Recommender systems like Netflix’s algorithm subtly influence our entertainment preferences.

Question 3

Perceived Objectivity

Answer 3

Numbers are often seen as neutral and unbiased, making them highly persuasive
Ex. A statistic like “90% success rate” can create trust without questioning its methodology

Question 4

Precision and Clarity

Answer 4

Mathematical models and data visualizations can simplify complex information, making it easier to digest and act upon.
Ex. Graphs, percentages, and trends make abstract concepts tangible

Question 5

Scalability

Answer 5

Quantitative data can describe phenomena at both micro and macro levels, influencing individual and collective perspectives.
Example: Population growth charts vs. personal financial stats.

Question 6

Ease of Misrepresentation

Answer 6

Data can be selectively presented or manipulated to mislead
Ex. A graph with a truncated y-axis exaggerates differences.

Question 6

Math Weaknesses

Answer 6

Ease of Misrepresentation

Lack of Context

Dependence on Assumptions

Dehumanization

Question 7

Lack of Context

Answer 7

Numbers often fail to convey the human or emotional side of a story.
Ex. “10,000 displaced people” doesn’t resonate as much as a single family’s story.

Question 8

Dependence on Assumptions

Answer 8

Mathematical models rely on assumptions that may not account for real-world complexities
Ex. Predictive models failing due to unaccounted variables (e.g., the 2008 financial crisis)

Question 9

Dehumanization

Answer 9

Reducing people to numbers or probabilities can strip away nuance and individuality
Ex. Crime statistics can perpetuate stereotypes when misused

Question 10

English Strengths

Answer 10

Emotional Appeal

Flexibility

Narrative Power

Ambiguity and Interpretation

Question 11

Emotional Appeal

Answer 11

Language can evoke strong emotions, making ideas memorable and impactful
Ex. Slogans like “Just Do It” or metaphors in speeches (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream”)

Question 12

Flexibility

Answer 12

Language is adaptable, allowing creators to frame messages for specific audiences and contexts
Ex. Politicians use rhetoric tailored to conservative vs. liberal audiences

Question 13

Narrative Power

Answer 13

Stories provide relatable, human contexts that influence beliefs and actions more deeply than raw data
Ex. Literature like Orwell’s1984influences how we perceive authoritarianism

Question 14

Ambiguity and Interpretation

Answer 14

Language’s flexibility allows for multiple interpretations, broadening its appeal
Ex. Symbolism in literature can mean different things to different readers

Question 15

English Weaknesses

Answer 15

Subjectivity

Potential for Manipulation

Imprecision

Overreliance

Question 16

Subjectivity

Answer 16

Language can be ambiguous or overly reliant on personal interpretation
Ex. A phrase like “freedom fighter” vs. “terrorist” depends on perspective

Question 17

Potential for Manipulation

Answer 17

Rhetorical devices (e.g., appeals to fear or authority) can be used to deceive
Ex. Propaganda during wartime exaggerates threats to gain public support

Question 18

Imprecision

Answer 18

Unlike mathematics, language often lacks exactness, leading to vagueness or miscommunication
Ex. Terms like “many” or “few” mean different things to different people

Question 19

Overreliance

Answer 19

Emotionally driven narratives can overshadow facts, leading to irrational decisions