Final answer:
The word 'variance' in the context of being in dispute means quarrelling, which is in opposition to agreement, cooperation, and compromise. Compromise is more likely when parties agree on goals but differ on details. A hypothesis is akin to a suggestion, and Karl Marx believed social structures evolve through conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word "variance" in the context of being in dispute aligns most closely with 'a) quarrelling'. When used in this sense, variance refers to a situation where there is disagreement, conflict, or contention, which matches the concept of quarrelling. On the other hand, 'b) agreement', 'c) cooperation', and 'd) compromise' represent states of accord and collaborative effort, which are antonyms to the concept of being in variance.
In a situation involving collective decision-making, the bias may lean toward 'd. compromise', according to the provided reference. Compromise involves parties in a dispute giving ground on their demands to reach a mutual agreement. It is also noted that compromise is most likely when participants generally agree on the goals but differ on the specifics.
Regarding the closest meaning to the word 'hypothesis', the answer is 'd. suggestion'. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, a starting point for further investigation. It is not a confirmed fact, law or a definitive conclusion, but rather a suggestion or tentative idea to be tested. Karl Marx's belief that social structures evolve through 'c. conflict' is highlighted in the referenced information. Marx proposed that societal change occurs as a result of conflicts between different social classes, with new social systems emerging from the resolution of these conflicts.