While progressivism has many meanings,it tended in this period to be based on the central assumption that
A) Social Darwinism could create social order and stability.
B) the laissez-faire philosophy should be embraced in American politics.
C) individual rights should be expanded as widely as possible.
D) urbanization was harmful to the United States.
E) American society was capable of improvement.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement "American society was capable of improvement" reflects the central assumption of progressivism in this period. Progressives believed that social and economic problems could be addressed through reform efforts, and that American society could be made better through the use of scientific methods and government intervention. Choice A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not reflect the beliefs of progressives during this period, and Choice C is only partially correct, as progressives did seek to expand individual rights but this was not necessarily their central assumption.

While Progressivism Has Many Meanings,it Tended in This Period to Be