Given below are two statements: One is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R.

Assertion (A): No piece of research will be the first of its kind.
Reason (R): The reliability of progress in knowledge is dependent on the honesty of the researchers.

In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is B

Explanation:
Assertion (A): "No piece of research will be the first of its kind."
This is true because even when a new research topic is explored, it builds upon the foundations of previous research. No research is entirely isolated; it always connects to or extends prior knowledge in some way.
Reason (R): "The reliability of progress in knowledge is dependent on the honesty of the researchers."
This is also true, as scientific progress relies heavily on the integrity of researchers. Honest, unbiased reporting is essential to ensure the validity and accuracy of research findings. However, this reason does not directly explain why "no piece of research will be the first of its kind."
Thus, while both statements are true, (R) does not provide a direct explanation for (A). Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

Information Booster:
Assertion (A):
Explanation: This assertion emphasizes the idea that research builds upon what has already been discovered. Each piece of research adds to the body of knowledge that precedes it. In fields like science, history, and social sciences, the so-called “new” research often refers to providing additional data, refining theories, or challenging existing beliefs.
Example: A research paper might be focused on a "new" cancer treatment, but it is still based on decades of medical research.
Reason (R):
Explanation: The honesty of researchers is crucial in ensuring that the data they collect and report is reliable, reproducible, and valid. If researchers fabricate or manipulate data, it undermines the progress of knowledge, as false or biased information can lead to wrong conclusions or lost opportunities for further research.
Example: If a researcher falsifies data in a study on climate change, it could have far-reaching negative consequences on climate policy and scientific trust.