An old saying says that two heads are better than one. The notion that collective wisdom outperforms a single opinion rests on the underlying assumption that the average opinion is more correct, or correct more often, than the opinion of a single group member. To be sure, individuals are fallible; however, groups may be as well. It is important to evaluate opinions on their merit more so than the number of people who share it. Two heads may double the chance of the collective wisdom being correct, but may also double the chance of the collective wisdom being wrong. Based on this passage, which of the following best characterizes the author's opinion of collective wisdom?
a) radio_button_unchecked More research is needed to determine the efficacy of collective wisdom.
b) radio_button_unchecked Collective wisdom is often a valid alternative to a single opinion.
c) radio_button_unchecked Collective wisdom is a poor substitute for expert understanding.
d) radio_button_unchecked The average, or collective, opinion is seldom the correct opinion.
e) radio_button_unchecked There is no place for collective wisdom in today's society.