Given below are two statements:
Statement I: When passive defence systems are encouraged, a defensive response will resist attitudinal change, if we apply the inoculation theory of communication.
Statement II: A strong does of argument will strengthen the receiver’s immune system.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

Statement I is correct. The inoculation theory of communication suggests that exposing individuals to a weak form of an argument strengthens their ability to resist stronger forms of that argument later on. This process is similar to how vaccines work by exposing the immune system to a weak form of a virus to build immunity. In this context, encouraging passive defense systems can lead to a defensive response that resists attitudinal change.
Statement II is incorrect. According to inoculation theory, a weak dose of argument (rather than a strong dose) is what strengthens the receiver’s ability to resist future persuasion. A strong dose of argument might be too overwhelming and could lead to acceptance rather than resistance.