Final answer:
The author suggests that the census is a national responsibility of every adult in America due to its importance in determining representation and allocating federal resources. This process, conducted every 10 years, requires a representative sample of the population to ensure accurate data for informed national decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
What the author MOST LIKELY wants the reader to think about the census based on this selection is option A: the responsibility of everyone in America. The text underscores the crucial role that the census plays in determining congressional representation and allocating federal resources. The process is depicted as a serious and important task that occurs every 10 years and requires the participation of every adult in America to ensure accurate and fair representation.
Since 1790, the United States has conducted a census to gather demographic data of residents. This data is used for the re-apportionment of congressional seats among the states and plays a significant role in understanding population dynamics and demographics. Every adult’s participation is pivotal to achieving a representative sample of the population, which helps in making informed decisions on a national level.
Additional information provided regarding the Intel Corporation survey filled out by visitors at an event suggests concerns about representation in smaller sample surveys as opposed to the census. It highlights the importance of having a random and well-distributed sample to reflect the population accurately. The U.S. Census Bureau tries to ensure that every person is counted, emphasizing the national responsibility of each resident to contribute to this large-scale survey.