LSAT Explanation PT 23, S3, Q24: The end of an action is
LSAT Question Stem
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the main conclusion of the argument?
Logical Reasoning Question Type
This is a Main Conclusion question.
Correct Answer
The correct answer to this question is C.
LSAT Question Complete Explanation
This LSAT problem is a Main Conclusion question, which asks us to identify the main conclusion of the argument presented in the passage. Let's break down the passage and analyze the answer choices in detail.
The passage begins by defining an "end" as the intended outcome of an action and states that the end's value is the only reason for the action. The author then asserts that while not every end's value will justify any means, it is clear that nothing will justify a means except an end's value. This last statement is the main conclusion of the argument.
Now, let's examine each answer choice:
Answer choice (A): This choice suggests that some ends may justify any means. However, this is not the main conclusion of the argument, as the author clearly states that there may not be any end whose value will justify every means. This answer choice is not supported by the passage.
Answer choice (B): This choice states that one can always justify an action by appealing to the value of its intended outcome. While it may seem tempting, this choice is too strong and goes against the author's assertion that not every end's value will justify any means. Thus, this choice is incorrect.
Answer choice (C): This choice accurately reflects the main conclusion of the argument, stating that one can justify an action only by appealing to the value of its intended outcome. This matches the author's assertion that "nothing will justify a means except an end's value." Therefore, this is the correct answer choice.
Answer choice (D): This choice claims that only the value of the by-products of an action can justify that action. This statement is not supported by the passage, as the author specifically differentiates between ends and by-products, emphasizing that ends are the key factor in justifying an action. This choice is incorrect.
Answer choice (E): This choice states that nothing can justify the intended outcome of an action except the value of that action's actual outcomes. However, this contradicts the passage's focus on the intended outcome (the end) as the basis for justifying an action. The actual outcome is not relevant to the author's argument. This choice is incorrect.
In conclusion, answer choice (C) is the correct answer, as it accurately expresses the main conclusion of the argument presented in the passage.