Logical reasoning PrepTest 150 · Section 2 · Question 4

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Errors in Reasoning

Stimulus Summary:
Politicians present their opponents' arguments as illogical. Scholars present their opponents' arguments seem logical. The latter tack makes their arguments more persuasive to other scholars. Therefore, politicians would win over more voters by presenting opponents' arguments in a better light.

Answer Anticipation:
It works on scholars, so it'll work on voters? That sounds like a bad assumption. Different audiences require different techniques in order to convince them of your viewpoint.

Answer Explanation:
This answer points out that a persuasive technique to one group might not work on another, which matches with our anticipation. Just because it works on scholars doesn't mean it'll work on voters.

Key Takeaway:
Whenever an argument in the LSAT recommends using a technique because it worked in a certain situation, make sure it establishes that the new situation is similar in all relevant ways. Otherwise, the differences in the situations might prevent the technique from working.

Incorrect. If it's difficult for scholars, but they manage to do it, there's no reason to think that politicians can't do it, too . . . Well, at least, someone working for the politician who can write their speech for them!

Incorrect. The two audiences here aren't shown to be similar. Additionally, the argument assumes one style of argumentation might be suited to two audiences, not that both are suited to both audiences.

Incorrect. The argument doesn't assume motive, just impact. The conclusion is that the politicians could have a larger impact if they adopt this strategy. In order to tie that into motivation, the conclusion would have to make a judgment about using the strategy (such as it would be effective at helping them reach their goals, or that they should use this strategy).

Incorrect. The stimulus states that the uncharitable formulation of the opponents' view is typical, not something that always happens. This allows for instances where they don't present the opponents' view in an unattractive manner.