Reading comp PrepTest 144 · Section 1 · Question 8

Incorrect. (Lines 32-34) These researchers are worried that market dynamics will lead to basic research not being affordable, so they're against allowing these dynamics to determine the course of research.

Correct. Question Type:
Strengthen (Principle)

Strategy Overview:
Review the argument/viewpoint of the researchers mentioned in Lines 30-31, then find a principle that backs up that argument

Answer Anticipation/Relevant Lines:
This question tasks us with finding a principle in the answers that lines up with an argument/viewpoint in the passage. When we're looking for a principle in the answers, we treat that as a Strengthen (Principle) question, as it should add to the argument in question.

Lines 30-31 are in Paragraph 2, and that was the paragraph where the argument of those afraid of the effect of biotech patents on research showed up. Specifically here, the researchers noted here are afraid that corporations that own patents will charge too much for researchers who want to use their patented materials. They cite this as part of their argument in opposition to biotechnology patents.

So, as with all Strengthen (Principle) questions, we want to connect the premise/details to the judgment/conclusion. Here, that would be something like:

If corporations can charge so much money to use their patent that it would prevent basic research from being done, then such patents shouldn't be allowed.

Answer Explanation:
(Lines 30-34) The researchers in question oppose biotech patents because they "fear" patent holders will charge so much for the use of their patented materials it'll stop research. That argument is strengthened if, as a general principle, inventors shouldn't be allowed to charge so much that others can't do research—and thus if that's what a patent leads to, then they shouldn't be allowed.

Key Takeaway:
Principle questions show up in RC! When they do, figure out if it's asking you to apply a principle that's in the passage, or find a principle that lines up with an argument in the passage. This will let you know what type of Principle question you're dealing with, and you can use the same process as in LR to tackle it.

Incorrect. (Lines 30-34) These researchers want to use the materials invented by others in their own research, so they wouldn't want researchers to prevent their materials from getting out.

Incorrect. (Line 32) The researchers in this section talk about corporate patent holders, so this answer about universities is out of scope.

Incorrect. (Lines 30-34) The researchers don't talk about funding—they talk about what is being charged to use patented materials—so this answer is out of scope.