LSAT Explanation PT 22, S4, Q6: A worker for a power company

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following decisions is based on flawed reasoning that is most similar to the worker's flawed reasoning? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Parallel Flaw question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The worker for a power company is responsible for trimming tree branches that overhang power lines to prevent damage during the stormy season. The worker concludes that there's no need to trim the branches of a certain tree because the owners might cut it down anyway. This argument has a premise (the owners might cut down the tree) and a conclusion (no need to trim the branches). The reasoning is flawed because the owners might not cut down the tree, and even if they do, there's no guarantee that they'll do it before the stormy season or do it properly.

To make this more relatable, imagine you have a leaky faucet that you need to fix before your house guests arrive. You decide not to fix it because your roommate mentioned they might fix it later. This reasoning is flawed because your roommate might not fix it, or they might not fix it before the guests arrive.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be: "Will the tree owners definitely cut down the tree before the stormy season?"

Now, let's discuss the answer choices. The question type is Parallel Flaw, which means we need to find an answer choice that has flawed reasoning similar to the worker's flawed reasoning.

a) The well inspector's reasoning isn't flawed in the same way as the worker's. The inspector is trying to prioritize their work based on usage, not avoiding work altogether. This answer choice is incorrect.

b) The plumber is considering cost-saving measures for the homeowner and isn't trying to avoid work. This reasoning isn't flawed in the same way as the worker's, so this answer choice is incorrect.

c) This answer choice is correct. The mechanic is trying to avoid work by not replacing the brakes on a van that might be junked, similar to the worker who doesn't want to trim the tree branches because the tree might be cut down. Both are flawed because there's no guarantee that the van will be junked or the tree will be cut down.

d) The candidate's reasoning isn't flawed in the same way as the worker's. The candidate is choosing to focus on specific areas to maximize their chances of gaining new votes, not avoiding work. This answer choice is incorrect.

e) The teacher's strategy might not be the most effective, but they aren't trying to avoid work. This reasoning isn't flawed in the same way as the worker's, so this answer choice is incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer choice is (C) because the mechanic's flawed reasoning is most similar to the worker's flawed reasoning. Both are trying to avoid work based on uncertain outcomes (the van being junked or the tree being cut down).