This question is missing the options. I've found the complete question online, it is as follows:
Read the excerpt from Dr. Martin Luther King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”
Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will.
What is the author’s purpose for including this sentence?
A. to condemn the insincerity of his critics’ advice
B. to contrast the motivations of people in power
C. to explain the need for mutual understanding
D. to criticize people who treat others cruelly
Answer:
The author's purpose for including this sentence is:
A. to condemn the insincerity of his critics’ advice
.
Explanation:
Dr. King mentions the "shallow understanding from people of good will" because of his critics. Unfortunately, even well-intentioned people will offer bad advice or undeserved criticism when their understanding of the subject is not deep. That, according to Dr. King, is "even more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will." Those who have good will could be of help, could make a difference. When, however, they do not make an effort to fully know the subject and to choose between right and wrong, they end up harming others.
