Assertion (A): Newcomb’s model implies that any communication system may be characterized by a balance of forces. And any change in any part of the system will lead to strain towards balance and symmetry.

Reason (R): Because imbalance or lack of symmetry is psychologically uncomfortable and generates internal pressure to restore balance.

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true

Correct Ans: (A)

Explanation:

Assertion (A) suggests that Newcomb’s model states communication systems are defined by a balance of forces. Any change in one part of the system will create a strain, pushing the system toward balance and symmetry.

Reason (R) explains that imbalance or lack of symmetry causes psychological discomfort, which generates internal pressure to restore balance. This aligns with the idea that systems naturally seek equilibrium.

Both the assertion and reason are true. Newcomb’s model indeed emphasizes the balance of forces in communication systems. Additionally, the psychological discomfort from imbalance is a key factor that drives the system to restore balance.

Thus, both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) correctly explains (A). The correct answer is (A) – both (A) and (R) are true.