Answer:
A). Firsthand intelligence is more effective than secondhand intelligence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intelligence is demonstrated as the capacity to perceive information and apply it in the right context.
The first statement most clearly expresses the author's perspective on intelligence. The author gives more significance to 'firsthand intelligence' over 'secondhand intelligence' as he feels that the former is gained naturally and through personal experiences and therefore, more authentic and credible. While secondhand intelligence is less authoritative as it is gained through indirect experiences. Therefore, the application of secondhand intelligence is not as effective as personal and directly developed intelligence i.e. firsthand intelligence. Thus, option A is the correct answer.