PrepTest 150

Incorrect. There's an implied principle that easier to use is safer, but that's an assumption of the argument. Also, if we accept the premise that they are easier to use, that general principle would apply. This answer attempts to get you to think it's addressing the real issue—the executive not addressing the original point—by using the language "not applicable," but it applies it to an incorrect summation.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Errors in Reasoning

Stimulus Summary:
Drivers are going to use cell phones no matter what, and this car's systems are easier to use. Therefore, they're safer, and are thus not dangerously distracting to drivers.

Answer Anticipation:
This argument attempts to rebut what the critics say. Their point? "Communication devices" in certain cars are distracting. What does the automobile executive say? They're easier to use and safer. None of that addresses the critics' point—safer doesn't mean non-distracting (it doesn't even mean safe—falling 20 feet is safer than falling 30 feet, after all!). This error can be described either as a term shift between safer and not distracting, or as a strawman argument, where the rebuttal doesn't address the original point.

Answer Explanation:
This answer is the generic way of describing a strawman argument. The argument rebuts a point that the critics didn't make. This answer is correct.

Key Takeaway:
When the author of an argument offers a rebuttal, make sure the issue they're addressing is the same that the opposing point is raising. While strawman flaws are rare on the LSAT, they do show up on occasion!

Incorrect. There are no sufficient/necessary conditions in this argument. If anything, there's a conditional assumption, but that assumption (if easier, then safer) aligns with the argument.

Incorrect. The automobile executive draws a distinction between their devices and others in the argument, so this answer choice isn't correct.

Incorrect. The conclusion is about how distracting the devices are, while the premises are about ease of use and safety. Those ideas aren't the same, so this circular reasoning answer is wrong.