Question

read this sentence from the passage.

the theme of strength in unity and in the vulnerability of the divided resonates with everyone. it is no wonder, then, that it has permeated every facet of american politics and pop culture. (paragraph 5)

how does the phrase “strength in unity and in the vulnerability of the divided” affect the overall meaning of the paragraph?

this phrase highlights the degree to which people have become isolated from the people around them.

this phrase underscores the central claim that a particular phrase has become ubiquitous in popular culture.

this phrase emphasizes the contrast between the outcomes of people working alone and people working together.

this phrase explains why a particular phrase has become common amongst politicians seeking to be elected.

Explanation:

1. Analyze Option 1: The phrase is about unity and divided, not isolation. So this is incorrect.
2. Analyze Option 2: The phrase is about the theme's resonance, not a phrase's ubiquity in pop culture. Incorrect.
3. Analyze Option 3: "Strength in unity" (people working together) and "vulnerability of the divided" (people working alone) creates a contrast between their outcomes. This matches the phrase's meaning.
4. Analyze Option 4: The phrase doesn't relate to politicians seeking election. Incorrect.

Answer:

C. This phrase emphasizes the contrast between the outcomes of people working alone and people working together.