Question

page 1:
how horrible, fantastic, incredible it is that we should be digging trenches and trying on gas-masks here because of a quarrel in a faraway country between people of whom we know nothing. .... i am myself a man of peace to the depths of my soul; armed conflict between nations is a nightmare to me. . . . war is a fearful thing, and we must be very clear before we embark on it, that it is really the great issues that are at stake.
—neville chamberlain,
september 27, 1938
page 2:
which argument is chamberlain trying to communicate in this passage?
war is terrible and should only be entered into with clear justification.
war is a necessary evil that often results in a lasting peace.
war is scary, but it is the only way to stop aggressive nations.
war should only be undertaken when a country can be assured of victory.

Explanation:

To determine Chamberlain's argument, analyze the passage: He describes war as "horrible," "fantastic," "incredible," a "nightmare," and "fearful." He also states "we must be very clear before we embark on it, that it is really the great issues that are at stake."

• Analyze Option 1: "War is terrible and should only be entered into with clear justification." This matches his description of war's terribleness and the need for clear justification (knowing great issues are at stake) before engaging.
• Analyze Option 2: The passage does not mention war resulting in "lasting peace," so this is incorrect.
• Analyze Option 3: He calls war a "nightmare" and does not present it as "the only way" to stop aggression, so this is incorrect.
• Analyze Option 4: The passage focuses on knowing great issues are at stake, not "assured of victory," so this is incorrect.

Answer:

A. War is terrible and should only be entered into with clear justification.