Question

Read the sample student claim. Although many applaud the increased opportunities for research and communication afforded by the Internet, it has actually brought more harm to society than good. Which best addresses a potential counterclaim? There is a higher risk that information obtained on the Internet is not as accurate as print sources. The Internet provides access to information that would otherwise be unobtainable to the general public. Many people are addicted to the Internet and no longer spend valuable time exploring outside interests. Development of the Internet occurred from the late 1950s to the 1970s by a group of researchers and scientists.

Answer 1

The correct answer is The Internet provides access to information that would otherwise be unobtainable to the general public.

Explanation:

The main claim or position proposes the internet has had a negative impact on society; this is expressed in "it has actually brought more harm to society than good". In this context, it is expected the counterclaim (the statement that refuses the claim) shows Internet has great positive effects, and therefore the main claim is false. This only occurs in the option " The Internet provides access to information that would otherwise be unobtainable to the general public" because this shows an important positive effect of the internet, which is the access to information.