LSAT Explanation PT 22, S4, Q15: In 1992, there were over 250

LSAT Question Stem

Each of the following principles, if valid, supports the task force members' proposal EXCEPT: 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Principle question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's summarize and analyze the argument in the passage. In 1992, there were many mountain climbing rescues, which cost the government millions of dollars. As more people enter the sport, a task force has proposed a bonding arrangement to cover the costs of rescues. The underlying principle of the argument is that people should be responsible for the costs they incur, rather than having those costs covered by the government (and thus, by taxpayers).

The structure of the argument is as follows:

- Premise: In 1992, there were many mountain climbing rescues costing the government millions of dollars.

- Premise: Many new climbers enter the sport each year.

- Conclusion: The government should require climbers to post a bond to cover the costs of rescues.

Now, let's come up with an "Evaluate" question for this argument: "Do the benefits of mountain climbing, such as tourism and economic activity, outweigh the costs of rescues?"

The question type for this problem is Principle, except we are looking for the answer choice that does NOT support the task force members' proposal.

Answer choice explanations:

a) This answer choice supports the argument because it states that taxpayers should not have to subsidize the costs of a hobby chosen by individuals. This aligns with the principle that people should be responsible for the costs they incur.

b) This answer choice also supports the argument because it suggests that the government has an obligation to deter people from risking their lives. The bonding arrangement could serve as a deterrent, making the proposal more reasonable.

c) This is the correct answer choice because it does not support the argument. This choice focuses on permits and training rather than on covering the costs of rescues. It is not directly related to the proposal of requiring climbers to post a bond, making it irrelevant to the argument.

d) This answer choice supports the argument because it states that those who use rescue services should pay more for them. The bonding arrangement would ensure that climbers who require rescues are the ones paying for them, aligning with this principle.

e) This answer choice supports the argument because it suggests that people engaging in risky behavior should be responsible for the costs of their injuries. The bonding arrangement would make climbers responsible for the costs of rescues, aligning with this principle.