If all members' impressions come from heuristics, which statement best describes the source of impressions?

• A. Impressions are independent of heuristics
• B. Impressions are partially influenced by data
• C. Impressions are derived from sensory input
• D. Impressions are driven by heuristics

Answer: (D)

Impressions are shaped by the mental shortcuts we use to quickly judge others. If every member’s impressions come from heuristics, the source of those impressions is the heuristics themselves—the quick rules of thumb guiding how we interpret social information.

Heuristics are cognitive shortcuts that streamline judgment without requiring full data. Therefore, saying impressions are driven by heuristics directly identifies the origin: the shortcuts are doing the work, not independent data streams, not raw sensory input, and not absent influence at all.

The other statements would imply a different source or less direct influence: independent of heuristics contradicts the given premise, partial influence by data suggests data plays a role beyond the shortcuts, and deriving solely from sensory input ignores the interpretive shortcut those heuristics provide.