Passage 2: The Ethics of Technological Dependence
As artificial intelligence systems become increasingly integrated into daily life, questions surrounding their ethical implications have grown more urgent. One of the central issues lies in the opacity of these systems, which are often designed in ways that make their decision-making processes difficult to interpret. As a result, individuals may (21) ______ the authority of algorithms, assuming that computational outputs are inherently objective. However, such assumptions can be misleading, as algorithms are ultimately shaped by human inputs, including biases that may not be immediately apparent.
Furthermore, as reliance on automation increases, there is a risk that critical thinking skills may gradually (22) ______. When individuals defer too readily to technological systems, they may become less inclined to question outcomes or consider alternative perspectives.
At the institutional level, organizations must also grapple with the challenge of assigning responsibility when algorithmic systems fail. If accountability is not clearly defined, it may become (23) ______ to determine who should be held liable for errors or unintended harm. This ambiguity can, in turn, (24) ______ public trust, especially if affected individuals perceive that there is no mechanism for redress.
Ultimately, while technological advancement is inevitable, it is essential to adopt a more critical and reflective approach, one that seeks not only to (25) ______ innovation but also to ensure that it aligns with broader ethical principles.

21. ______

(A) question

(B) challenge

(C) defer to

(D) acquiesce to