I WILL GIVE BRAINLIEST AND 50 POINTS TO THE CORRET ANSWER
In the first three sentences of paragraph 7 ("For instance . . . not them”), the writer follows a long, complex sentence with two brief statements primarily to

arouse skepticism about the reasons people cite for not acting.
question the scope of a college president’s political clout.
acknowledge that people who are not activists often make valid points.
emphasize how easily those in power can avoid responsibility.
justify educational inaction in regard to climate change.