LSAT Explanation PT 27, S1, Q1: Powell: Private waste-removal companies spend 60

LSAT Question Stem

The issue in dispute between Powell and Freeman is the 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Disagree question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. Powell states that private waste-removal companies spend 60% of what public waste-removal companies spend per customer while providing at least as good service. Powell concludes that private waste-removal companies are more efficient. Freeman, however, argues that Powell's conclusion is unwarranted because different customers have different waste-removal needs, and private companies can choose which customers to serve, excluding the most costly ones.

In this argument, Powell's statement about the spending difference and service quality is a premise, and the conclusion is that private companies are more efficient. Freeman's statements serve as a counterargument to Powell's conclusion.

The question type is a Point at Issue question, asking us to identify the issue in dispute between Powell and Freeman. Let's analyze the answer choices:

a) The accuracy of the figure of 60 percent is not in dispute between Powell and Freeman. Both parties agree on this figure; they disagree on the interpretation of the figure.

b) This is the correct answer. Powell and Freeman dispute the reason private waste-removal companies can offer comparable service while spending less money per customer. Powell attributes it to efficiency, while Freeman argues it's due to private companies' ability to select their customers and exclude the most costly ones.

c) The ability of private versus public waste-removal companies to select customers is not the issue in dispute. Freeman mentions it as part of their counterargument, but Powell doesn't address it directly.

d) The likelihood of local authorities turning public waste-removal companies into private ones is not discussed in the passage, making it out of scope.

e) The relationship between the needs of a waste-removal customer and the amount of money it takes to serve that customer is not the main issue in dispute. While Freeman brings up the different needs of customers, the central disagreement is about the reason for the spending difference and the efficiency of private companies.

In conclusion, the correct answer is choice B, as it accurately captures the disagreement between Powell and Freeman regarding the reason private waste-removal companies can offer comparable service while spending less money per customer.