Final answer:
The article primarily discusses the history of Triskaidekaphobia, the fear of the number 13. The term xenophobia describes the irrational fear or hatred of another culture, making option (b) the correct answer for question 4.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main idea of the article titled What is the word for fear of the number 13? Triskaidekaphobia? is best encapsulated by option (a), which describes the history of Triskaidekaphobia. Triskaidekaphobia is a specific phobia characterized by the irrational fear of the number 13. This fear is often linked to cultural superstitions and historic events where the number 13 was considered unlucky or associated with negative outcomes. While the article may touch on common phobias (b), cultural superstitions (c), and explanation of various phobias (d), the primary focus is on the origins, history, and cultural context of the fear of the number 13, thus making option (a) the most accurate answer.
Regarding question 4, the irrational fear or hatred of another culture is known as xenophobia. This term denotes a prejudicial attitude towards individuals from different countries or cultural backgrounds. Therefore, the correct answer is (b) xenophobia, which differs from (a) ethnocentrism that involves judging another culture by the standards of one's own culture, (c) xenophile which indicates an affection for foreign people or cultures, and (d) ethnophobia which is not a commonly used term in this context.