In each of the following questions, a sentence is given with two blanks, indicating that parts of the sentence are missing. Choose the most suitable pair of words from the given options that accurately and grammatically complete the sentence. Although social media platforms were originally designed to bridge geographic divides, critics argue they have instead intensified psychological ________, trapping individuals in ideological echo chambers that ________ authentic human connection.

The word "instead" indicates that social media platforms achieved the opposite of bridging divides. Thus, they increased separation or isolation, making "alienation" (the state of being isolated or estranged) a perfect fit for the first blank. Echo chambers trap individuals and prevent genuine connection, making "preclude" (prevent from happening or make impossible) the correct fit for the second blank.  o (a) fails because intensifying psychological "proximity" (closeness) would be a positive thing, contradicting the critical tone. o (b) fails because echo chambers would not "cultivate" (grow) authentic human connection. o (d) fails because echo chambers do not "bolster" (support/strengthen) authentic human connection; they degrade it.