The sentence below has two blanks. Fill in the blanks by picking the appropriate pair of words from the options given below that best complete the meaning of the sentence.
The most technologically advanced societies have been responsible for the greatest \( \_\_\_\_\_ \); indeed, savagery seems to be in direct proportion to \( \_\_\_\_\_ \).
Step-by-step Solution:
The sentence suggests that societies with advanced technology have been responsible for significant negative outcomes, and that the level of savagery is directly related to something.
Option A: "Wars ; viciousness" - This pair doesn't fit well because while wars can be a result of advanced societies, viciousness doesn't necessarily increase in direct proportion to anything mentioned.
Option B: "Catastrophes ; ill-will" - This pair doesn't fit well because while advanced societies can cause catastrophes, ill-will doesn't necessarily increase in direct proportion to anything mentioned.
Option C: "Atrocities ; development" - This pair fits well because advanced societies can indeed be responsible for great atrocities (negative outcomes), and the level of savagery (atrocities) can be seen as increasing in direct proportion to development (technological advancement).
Option D: "Triumphs ; civilization" - This pair doesn't fit well because triumphs are positive outcomes, and the sentence is discussing negative outcomes. Also, savagery doesn't necessarily increase in direct proportion to civilization.
Therefore, the best pair of words to fill in the blanks is "Atrocities ; development".
So, the final answer is $\boxed{C}$.