Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 91%

Read the following excerpt from George Washington's farewell address. They serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial and extraordinary force; to put, in the place of the delegated will of the nation the will of a party, often a small but artful and enterprising minority of the community; and, according to the alternate triumphs of different parties, to make the public administration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incongruous projects of faction, rather than the organ of consistent and wholesome plans digested by common counsels and modified by mutual interests.

What is Washington's message in this excerpt?

Rationale

Political factions pose a threat to the development of the nation.

Washington's message highlights the dangers of political factions, emphasizing how they can distort the true will of the nation and lead to discord rather than unity. He warns that factions may prioritize their interests over the common good, undermining effective governance and the collective welfare of citizens.

A (Political factions pose a threat to the development of the nation.) CORRECT

This choice accurately reflects Washington's concerns about the divisive nature of factions. He illustrates how these groups can manipulate public administration, promoting self-serving agendas that conflict with the broader interests of the nation. By focusing on party loyalty rather than the common good, factions can hinder national progress and unity.

B (Political factions help ensure that the will of the nation is observed.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement contradicts Washington's argument, as he suggests that factions actually replace the nation's delegated will with their own narrow interests. Factions do not serve to ensure the nation’s will is observed; instead, they create a scenario where a minority can impose its agenda at the expense of collective goals.

C (Political factions should be outlawed in the new nation.) YOUR ANSWER

While Washington critiques factions, he does not advocate for their outright outlawing. Rather, he emphasizes the need for awareness and vigilance against their influence. The focus is on managing their impact rather than eliminating them entirely from the political landscape.

D (Political factions have the greatest power in the nation.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice misinterprets Washington's message. Although he acknowledges that factions can wield significant influence, he portrays this power as detrimental. The concern is not about their strength but rather about how that strength can lead to poor governance and conflict, undermining the nation's development.

Conclusion

Washington's farewell address warns against the dangers of political factions, stressing that they threaten the unity and development of the nation. By prioritizing their own interests, factions can distort the collective will and lead to ineffective governance. Understanding this warning is crucial for maintaining a healthy political environment that serves the common good.

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