LSAT Explanation PT 29, S4, Q6: Some judges complain about statutes that

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following sentences most accurately expresses the main point of the passage? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Main Conclusion question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is E. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The passage begins by presenting a complaint from some judges about mandatory minimum sentences for criminal offenses. They argue that these legal restrictions are too mechanical and prevent judges from deciding when a given individual can or cannot be rehabilitated. This is a premise.

The passage then provides a counterargument, stating that mandatory minimum sentences are necessary. This is the conclusion of the argument. The author supports this conclusion with the premise that history demonstrates that when people are free to use their own judgment, they often act arbitrarily and irrationally, even if they believe they are acting wisely. The author then extends this premise to judges, stating that there is no reason to think judges are an exception to this rule.

Now that we've analyzed the argument, let's look at the question type and the answer choices. The question type is Main Conclusion, which asks us to identify the main point of the passage.

a) People believe that they have good judgment but never do.

This answer choice is too extreme and doesn't focus on the main conclusion about mandatory minimum sentences. It only addresses a part of the evidence presented in the passage.

b) Mandatory minimum sentences are too mechanical and reduce judicial discretion.

This answer choice presents the complaint from some judges, which is a premise, not the main conclusion of the passage.

c) Judges should be free to exercise their own judgment.

This answer choice is actually opposite to the main conclusion of the passage, which argues that mandatory minimum sentences are necessary.

d) Judges are often arbitrary and irrational.

This answer choice focuses on a part of the evidence presented in the passage but does not address the main conclusion about mandatory minimum sentences.

e) Mandatory minimum sentences are needed to help prevent judicial arbitrariness.

This answer choice accurately captures the main conclusion of the passage and also includes a nod to the evidence presented in the passage, making it the correct answer.

So, the correct answer is E.