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.