The author uses the example of the SteadicamTM primarily in order to suggest that

Shiyi-Zhang January 23, 2019

Could someone please explain to me why is E correct? Thanks!

Jacob-R January 23, 2019

I’m happy to help. We want to know what the author’s use of the example of the Steadicam is suggesting in the passage. We learn about Steadicam starting around line 10.

We learn that it is a device that remains steady while filming, no matter how the operator moves. And then we learn that it it “captures the dance in ways impossible with traditional mounts. Such new equipment also allows for the preservation of previously unrecordable aspects of performances, thus enriching archives.”

So this technology is doing two things: capturing dance in a new way, but it ALSO allows for preservation of the art form, thus enriching archives. Preservation, and enhancing! And that is exactly what answer E says. It is a new technology that doesn’t preempt (preservation!) but also enhances the art form. That is why answer E is correct.

I hope this helps, please let us know if you have other questions.

Shiyi-Zhang January 30, 2019

I think you might have misunderstood choice E: "new technology does not so much preempt as enhance a traditional art form". Could someone explain what does it mean?

Ravi January 31, 2019

@Shiyi-Zhang,

Happy to help. (E) means that new technology enhances, rather than
prevents, a traditional art form. As Jacob mentioned, this is exactly
why the example of Steadicam is used. The example is used to support
the conclusion of the first paragraph that "Such new technologies
create new ways of seeing and learning by adding different dimensions
to older forms, rather than replacing those forms" (lines 7-10).
Steadicam is used as an example to support this claim, and that's why
(E) is correct.

Keep in mind that "preempt" is a synonym for "prevent," so (E) is
saying that new technology isn't preventing traditional art
forms...it's enhancing them.

Does this make sense? Let me know what you think!