Studies show that while most people highly value honesty. ___(21)_ to what this might suggest, the same studies show that most people lie on a daily basis. What _(22)_ can those who value honesty have for not being honest themselves? _(23)_ studies into this issue _(24)_ that most claim that their lies are “white” lies that either protect another’s feelings or at least do no harm. One example of a “protective” white lie is telling a friend that her new haircut looks good when you really think it doesn’t. An example of a “harmless” white lie might be telling a classmate that your test score was higher than it actually was. However, these studies also showed that even these “white” lies can _(25)___ one’s self-image as an honest person.
21.
a. Coincidentally
b. Contrary
c. Empirically
d. Affective

24.
a. revealed
b. accompanied
c. adjusted
d. commited
22
a. imposition
b. justification
c. institution
d. deduction

25
a. confirm
b. reveal
c. erode
d. deduce
23.
a. Adjusted
b. Incompatible
c. Restrained
d. Empirical

Explanation: The people would need provide an explanation as to why they value honesty if they cannot be honest themselves. The synonym for explanation is justification.

23. Answer: d. Empirical

Explanation: Empirical means studied through direct or indirect observation or experience. If information was collected during a study, it is considered an empirical study.

24. Answer: a. Revealed

Explanation: Studies were done on people telling "white lies", therefore they "revealed" or showed the results of the study.

25. Answer: c. Erode

Explanation: Erode means to gradually destroy, and the text explains that "white lies" slowly destroy one's self-image as an honest person.