A study is testing the effectiveness of a new allergy medication. Sixty volunteers who reported they experience allergies were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one with the new medication, and another with a placebo. After two weeks, the subjects’ level of allergic symptoms was surveyed. Which of the following is a true statement concerning the use of a placebo?

The placebo is given to one group of subjects to see if the subjects receiving the placebo experience fewer allergic symptoms than the subjects taking the new medication.

The placebo is given to one group of subjects to see if the subjects receiving the placebo experience more allergic symptoms than the subjects taking the new medication.

The placebo is given to one group of subjects to see if the subjects receiving the placebo think they have fewer allergic symptoms because they believe they are taking the new medication.

The placebo is given to one group of subjects to see if the subjects receiving the new medication think they have fewer allergic symptoms because they believe they are taking the new medication.