LSAT Explanation PT 20, S4, Q12: After several attempts to distract his

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following principles, if established, would justify the judgments about George's and Carla's actions? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Principle question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. We have two separate scenarios involving George and Carla, who both use physical discipline on their respective pets to correct undesirable behavior. The passage concludes that George should not have hit his parrot, while Carla was justified in disciplining her puppy. The underlying principle in these judgments seems to be related to the potential harm to the animal.

Now, let's create an "Evaluate" question for the argument: "Under what circumstances is physical discipline justified when training an animal?"

The question type for this problem is Principle, which asks us to identify the principle that would justify the judgments about George's and Carla's actions.

Let's discuss each answer choice:

a) This answer choice suggests using an object instead of hands when disciplining an animal. However, it doesn't address the issue of potential harm to the animal, which is the key factor in the passage's judgments. So, this choice is incorrect.

b) This answer choice states that physical discipline should be used only when necessary to correct behavior that could result in serious harm to the animal. This principle aligns with the conclusions of the passage, as George's parrot was not at risk of harm from chewing furniture, while Carla's puppy could have been seriously harmed by running into a busy street. Therefore, this is the correct answer.

c) This choice suggests that physical discipline is justified only when all alternative strategies have failed. While this may be a reasonable approach, it doesn't address the issue of potential harm to the animal, which is the main focus of the passage's conclusions. So, this choice is incorrect.

d) This answer choice states that physical discipline should not be used on immature animals. Although both pets in the passage are young, this principle doesn't address the issue of potential harm to the animal, which is the key factor in the judgments. So, this choice is incorrect.

e) This choice suggests that physical discipline should be used only to correct persistent behavior problems. While this may be a valid consideration, it doesn't address the issue of potential harm to the animal, which is the main focus of the passage's conclusions. So, this choice is incorrect.

In summary, the correct answer is B, as it addresses the issue of potential harm to the animal and aligns with the judgments made in the passage about George's and Carla's actions.