Why did Gallien decide not alert the authorities about McCandless?

Why did Gallien decide not alert the authorities about McCandless?

• A. Because he figured McCandless would be okay and would get hungry and walk out like any other normal person would do
• B. Because he feared McCandless would sue him
• C. Because he lacked the authority to contact authorities
• D. Because he believed McCandless could survive without help

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is how a person assesses risk and decides whether to involve authorities or let someone handle a situation on their own. Gallien reads the scene and McCandless’s attitude and plans: McCandless appears capable, self-reliant, and determined to continue his journey rather than be rescued. He offers help and supplies, but McCandless declines, signaling he intends to push forward rather than seek formal rescue. Because there isn’t an obvious, immediate danger to life and Gallien believes McCandless will manage and likely leave the area once he gets hungry, he chooses not to alert authorities. In short, he trusts McCandless’s own capacity to survive and to decide when to seek help, rather than escalating the situation.

The main idea being tested is how a person assesses risk and decides whether to involve authorities or let someone handle a situation on their own. Gallien reads the scene and McCandless’s attitude and plans: McCandless appears capable, self-reliant, and determined to continue his journey rather than be rescued. He offers help and supplies, but McCandless declines, signaling he intends to push forward rather than seek formal rescue. Because there isn’t an obvious, immediate danger to life and Gallien believes McCandless will manage and likely leave the area once he gets hungry, he chooses not to alert authorities. In short, he trusts McCandless’s own capacity to survive and to decide when to seek help, rather than escalating the situation.