Passage Four
In Lusaka, Zambia, a young man applying for a job was told to see the manager. He leaned over the receptionist’s desk and asked. “What tribe（部落） is he?” When the receptionist told him that the manager was a Mashona, the applicant replied, “Then I'll never get the job.”
This phenomenon is called tribalism（部落主义）. There are more than 2,000 tribes in black Africa. Each has its own language, customs, and physical characteristics that make its members almost immediately recognizable to a person from another tribe. To the Westerner, tribalism is one of the most difficult of African customs to understand. It makes many people think of savagery, warfare, or old-fashioned customs.
However, to most Africans, tribalism simply means very strong loyalty to one’s ethnic group. It is a force that can be both good and bad. By definition tribalism means sharing among members of the extended family. It makes sure that a person is taken care of by his own group tribesman. To give a job to a fellow is not wrong; it is an obligation. Similarly, for a politician or military leader, it is considered good common sense to choose his closest advisers from people of his own tribe. This ensures security, continuity, and authority. Tribal loyalty may mean a quick promotion—from sergeant to captain, from clerk to manager—within a very short time.
Modern African politicians publicly speak out against tribal divisions. Yet it remains perhaps the most powerful force in day-to-day African life.
In paragraph 1, why did the young man believe his job application will be refused?
A. His behavior was not appropriate. B. He belonged to the same tribe with the manager. C. He didn’t belong to the same tribe with the manager. D. His questions annoyed the receptionist.正确答案C
