Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This sentence describes a biased researcher. The word "unscrupulous" (dishonest) is a major clue. The sentence structure, with the word "while," sets up a contrast between how the researcher treats evidence that supports his claims and evidence that does not.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- The first blank describes how an unscrupulous researcher would use materials to "substantiate his own claims." He would likely choose only the evidence that helps him. A word like "selectively" would fit.
- The second blank describes how he would treat "information that points to other possible conclusions." He would ignore or dismiss it. A word like "ignoring" or "disregarding" would fit.
Let's evaluate the options:
(A) haphazardly.. deploying: Using materials haphazardly (randomly) would not be an effective way to substantiate a claim.
(B) selectively.. disregarding: This pair is perfect. An unscrupulous researcher uses materials selectively (choosing only what supports his case) while disregarding (ignoring) any conflicting information. This describes confirmation bias.
(C) cleverly.. weighing: Weighing all information is what a good researcher does, not an unscrupulous one.
(D) modestly.. refuting: "Modestly" doesn't fit the context. Also, refuting other conclusions is part of research, but the sentence implies he's ignoring the information itself.
(E) arbitrarily.. emphasizing: Using materials arbitrarily (randomly) is similar to haphazardly. It's not a good fit.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The words "selectively" and "disregarding" best describe the biased and unscrupulous methods of the researcher.