Question

Read the lines from "A Man Said to the Universe."

“However,” replied the universe,
“The fact has not created in me
A sense of obligation.”
What is conveyed by the universe’s response to the man?
The universe is refusing to acknowledge that the man exists, while admitting a sense of obligation.
The universe is confirming the man’s assertion that he exists, while demanding respect from the man.
The universe is refusing to acknowledge that the man exists, although the universe does respond to him.
The universe is confirming the man’s assertion that he exists, although the universe is doing so in a dismissive manner.

Answer 1

"The universe is confirming the man’s assertion that he exists, although the universe is doing so in a dismissive manner."

Explanation: the universe acknowledges the "fact" (the man's existence) but makes clear it feels no obligation toward him — a confirmation stated dismissively.