Blue Book Critical Reading ? (pg 422, PT1)

mAnshin
Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:33:54 +0000

18) Which best characterizes how the subject of identity is treated in these two passages?

A) Passage 1 suggests that identity can be self-created, while Passage 2 contends that it is determined by external and internal factors.
B) Passage 1 de-emphasizes the importance of ancestral background to one’s identity, while Passage 2 emphasizes its importance.
C) Passage 1 argues that the individual chooses his or her identity, while Passage 2 affirms that identity is imposed by others.
D) Both passages downplay the impact of one’s physical surroundings on one’s identity.
E) Neither Passage 1 or Passage 2 considers the psychological effect of denying parts of one’s identity.

The answer is A. However, I do not understand the phrases external and internal factors, especially internal. (would external be like getting the university education?)