PrepTest 150

Incorrect. While the argument does present causality, it doesn't neglect the reversal. Roehmer attacks her opponents to rile up her base; the reverse wouldn't be true.

Incorrect. While the argument does go after Roehmer's motivations, those aren't the same as personal characteristics. This answer would be correct if the argument attacked Roehmer's personality.

Incorrect. The argument doesn't use a back-to-back timeline to justify its conclusion, instead relying on a discussion of motive.

Incorrect. The argument takes a fairly negative stance throughout towards Roehmer, repeating the assertion that she's partisan and inflammatory.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Errors in Reasoning

Stimulus Summary:
Roehmer attacks her opponents' motivations, which only serves to alienate the opposing viewpoint. This makes her a polarizing figure. But that's probably not a problem to her, since she just wants to rile up her base.

Answer Anticipation:
Why does Roehmer probably not care that she's a polarizing figure? Because she has bad motives. Which is exactly what she accuses her opponents of. The argument here is launching the same ad hominem attack that Roehmer is.

Answer Explanation:
The argument attacks Roehmer for impugning her opponents' motives before . . . impugning Roehmer's motives. This is the answer.

Key Takeaway:
Whenever an argument talks about someone's motivations, pay attention. There's a good chance that will factor into the correct answer.