In the context of social psychology and the story 'Harrison Bergeron,' why has George been given a handicap by the government but Hazel has not?

• A. Hazel is physically stronger than George, so she does not need a handicap, while George is weaker and must wear one.
• B. Hazel requested not to wear a handicap, while George chose to wear one voluntarily.
• C. George is a government official and must set an example by wearing handicaps, while Hazel is not involved with the government.
• D. George possesses above-average intelligence, so the government requires him to wear handicaps to ensure equality, while Hazel's intelligence is average and does not require handicapping.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of handicaps in 'Harrison Bergeron': The government enforces handicaps to ensure absolute equality by limiting individuals who have above-average abilities.
2. Identify George's characteristic: George has above-average intelligence, which the government views as an advantage that must be neutralized.
3. Recognize Hazel's characteristic: Hazel has average intelligence, so she does not possess abilities that require handicapping according to the government's standards.
4. Explain the purpose of the handicaps: They are designed to suppress exceptional abilities (like George's intelligence) to maintain social equality.
5. Conclude that George wears a handicap because of his superior intelligence, while Hazel does not because her abilities are considered average and do not threaten the enforced equality.