An archive tentatively attributes anonymous essays to writers based on recurring phrase patterns. A model trained on those attributions later assigns newly found essays, and catalogers add the model's assignments to the archive. Scholars then prioritize comparisons among essays bearing the same assigned name, so competing attributions receive progressively less scrutiny. Although no new kind of evidence has been introduced, this cycle can _____ the archive's initial judgments.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For a words-in-context question, determine the exact effect described by the whole passage before comparing the choices. Distinguish among formalizing a judgment, merely keeping it in place, supporting it with evidence, and making it increasingly resistant to revision.
Hints
Follow the consequences
Focus on what happens to competing attributions as the model's assignments influence later research.
Distinguish persistence from proof
Consider whether the cycle independently confirms the initial judgments or instead makes them increasingly difficult to reconsider.
Step-by-step Explanation
Trace the cycle
The model learns from the archive's tentative attributions, and its new assignments are then added to that same archive. Those assignments influence which comparisons scholars pursue.
Identify the effect
As scholars devote less attention to competing attributions, the archive's initial judgments become less likely to be questioned or revised, even though the process has introduced no new kind of evidence.
Choose the precise verb
To “entrench” a judgment is to establish it so firmly that it becomes difficult to change. This verb precisely describes how the cycle makes the initial attributions resistant to reconsideration.