Which situation is the closest parallel to the cartoon?
A single-panel cartoon shows a small rowing boat holding a man in a suit, who is bailing water with a teacup. The boat is visibly sinking; a large hole in the hull shows in the bottom. Beside him, pinned to the mast, is a gold certificate that reads 'Most Efficient Bailer, Fifth Year Running'. The man is smiling and looking at the certificate. Nobody else is in the boat, and the shore is visible in the distance.
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. A hospital praises a department for processing forms faster each year while patients wait longer for treatment
- Step 1: The cartoon pairs praise for efficiency with a neglected core failure. Step 2. The hospital example does the same: faster forms, worse care. Step 3. The other options show a problem being addressed or punished. Answer: praise for speed amid core failure. Why not the others: the others show sensible responses, not rewarded misdirection.
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