What is a 'partisan'?

A 'partisan' refers to someone who strongly supports a particular cause, group, or political party, often with a sense of loyalty that may overshadow impartiality. This term is frequently used in political contexts, where a partisan may actively promote the interests of their chosen party or ideology, sometimes leading to a polarized view of issues.

The wording of the option that describes a 'partisan' accurately captures this sense of commitment and alignment with a specific group or perspective. It conveys the idea that a partisan is not merely sympathetic but is often actively engaged in advocating for the group they support, which distinguishes them from those who may have a broader or more neutral stance.

In contrast, options referring to neutrality, avoidance of conflict, or independent thinking do not align with the inherent nature of a partisan. A neutral observer would not take sides, a person who avoids conflict would likely not engage deeply with any particular group or ideology, and an independent thinker is characterized by their impartiality and ability to evaluate issues based on merit rather than loyalty to a group. Thus, being a partisan fundamentally implies a degree of bias or allegiance, making the second choice the most accurate definition.