THE QUESTION ASKS FOR THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE PASSAGE. IN OTHER...
8. The question asks for the primary purpose of the passage. In
other words, what was the author's agenda in writing the
passage? The correct answer must take the entirety of the passage
into account without misrepresenting the author's intent.
The correct answer is E. Choice E states that the purpose is to
"examine the circumstances of the introduction of Western medicine
into 19th century China". This takes the whole of the passage into
account without misrepresenting the author's intent. The author
focuses on the influence of Peter Parker in bringing Western
medicine to China. Correct.
Choice A states that the purpose is to "discuss the status of the
medical profession in China before the arrival of Peter Parker". The
passage does not focus on this topic, so this choice is incorrect.
Choice B states that the purpose is to "argue that China could not
have gained modern medical knowledge without the influence of
Peter Parker". The passage does not contain any such
argument. This choice is incorrect.
Choice C states that the purpose is to "demonstrate the need in
China before the 19th century for outside medical knowledge". The
passage focuses on the introduction of Western medicine into China,
not the state of medicine in China before the 19th
century. Incorrect.
Choice D states that the purpose is to "challenge the predominant
view of 19th century Chinese medicine". The passage does not
make any such argument. Incorrect.