LSAT Explanation PT 25, S4, Q19: Inez: In these poor economic times,

LSAT Question Stem

Anika's response proceeds by 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is A. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. Inez claims that in poor economic times, people want good value for their money and would be more willing to buy antiques at their fair if they first have the objects inspected by professional appraisers to remove any objects of questionable authenticity. This is her conclusion. Anika disagrees with Inez's prediction and provides two premises: 1) the customers are already antiques experts, and 2) hiring professional appraisers would increase their costs, forcing them to raise the prices on all their antiques.

The question type is Method of Reasoning (MOR), and it asks us to identify how Anika's response proceeds. Let's examine each answer choice:

a) indicating that a particular plan would have an effect contrary to the anticipated effect

Anika's response does indicate that Inez's plan (hiring appraisers) would have an effect contrary to the anticipated effect (more willing customers). Anika disagrees with this prediction because the customers are already experts and hiring appraisers would raise the prices. This answer choice aligns with Anika's response and is the correct answer.

b) claiming that a particular plan should not be adopted because, while effective, it would have at least one undesirable consequence

Anika does not claim that Inez's plan should not be adopted. She disagrees with Inez's prediction but doesn't explicitly say the plan shouldn't be implemented. Also, Anika doesn't acknowledge that Inez's plan would be effective. This answer choice is incorrect.

c) arguing that an alternative plan could achieve a desired result more easily than the plan originally proposed

Anika does not propose or argue for an alternative plan in her response. This answer choice is incorrect.

d) questioning the assumption that authorities are available who have special knowledge of the problem under discussion

Anika does not question the availability of authorities with special knowledge. Her disagreement is based on the customers being experts and the increased costs of hiring appraisers. This answer choice is incorrect.

e) offering a counterexample in order to show that a particular general claim is too broadly stated

Anika does not offer a counterexample in her response. She provides reasons for disagreeing with Inez's prediction. This answer choice is incorrect.

Therefore, the correct answer is A, as Anika's response indicates that Inez's plan would have an effect contrary to the anticipated effect.