Query about Question 12 from "Timed Verbal Practice - Medium Section 1 Sample Test #2" [9041]

[user15834]

https://www.gregmat.com/quizzes/quiz/timed-verbal-practice-medium-section-1-sample-test-2 (Question 12)

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Hi. I`m confused about the second choice of Q12. According to the passage, Codell suggests that art dealers legitimated themselves as expertise more than just seller.

I interpreted the word ‘legitimation’ as meaning that the dealers pursued economic gain but disguised it as an act of artistic value. Based on this logic, second choice of Q12 musted be true.
I wonder whether my reading comprehension logic is wrong, or if my way of making judgments during the selection process is wrong.

[Kweku]

@user15834

I interpreted the word ‘legitimation’ as meaning that the dealers pursued economic gain but disguised it as an act of artistic value. Based on this logic, second choice of Q12 musted be true.
I wonder whether my reading comprehension logic is wrong, or if my way of making judgments during the selection process is wrong.

Yes. Your interpretation is not right.

To legitimate something means to establish it as legitimate/valid/respectable. It doesn’t mean disguising your true motives.

More importantly, where does Codell say that the dealers were more motivated by financial gain than by cultural or artistic pursuits?