LSAT Explanation PT 30, S2, Q3: Opponents of peat harvesting in this

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, most strengthens the argument? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Strengthen question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The opponents of peat harvesting claim that it would alter the ecological balance of the wetlands and lead to water contamination. The author disagrees with this claim and concludes that peat harvesting can be done safely. The author supports this conclusion by stating that in Ireland, where peat has been harvested for centuries, the water supply is not contaminated.

Argument Structure:

Premise: In Ireland, peat has been harvested for centuries without water contamination.

Conclusion: We can safely proceed with peat harvesting in this country.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument would be: "Are the conditions in this country similar to those in Ireland, where peat harvesting has not led to water contamination?"

Now, let's discuss the answer choices. Remember, this is a Strengthen question, so we are looking for an answer choice that makes the argument more convincing.

a) Over hundreds of years, the ecological balance of all areas changes slowly but significantly, sometimes to the advantage of certain flora and fauna.

This answer choice does not directly address the issue of water contamination or the comparison between this country and Ireland. It is a general statement about ecological changes, but it does not help us determine whether peat harvesting in this country would lead to water contamination or not. Thus, it does not strengthen the argument.

b) The original ecology of the peat-harvesting areas of Ireland was virtually identical to that of the undisturbed wetlands of this country.

This is the correct answer. This statement strengthens the argument by establishing a similarity between the conditions in Ireland and this country. If the original ecology of the peat-harvesting areas in Ireland is virtually identical to that of this country, it is more likely that the same result (no water contamination) would occur if peat harvesting were to proceed in this country.

c) The activities of other industries in coming years are likely to have adverse effects on the water supply of this country.

This answer choice brings up other potential sources of water contamination, but it does not directly address the issue of peat harvesting. It does not help us determine whether peat harvesting in this country would lead to water contamination or not. Thus, it does not strengthen the argument.

d) The peat resources of this country are far larger than those of some countries that successfully harvest peat.

This answer choice provides information about the size of peat resources, but it does not address the issue of water contamination or the comparison between this country and Ireland. It does not help us determine whether peat harvesting in this country would lead to water contamination or not. Thus, it does not strengthen the argument.

e) The peat-harvesting industry of Ireland has been able to supply most of that country's fuel for generations.

This answer choice provides information about the benefits of peat harvesting in Ireland, but it does not address the issue of water contamination or the comparison between this country and Ireland. It does not help us determine whether peat harvesting in this country would lead to water contamination or not. Thus, it does not strengthen the argument.

In conclusion, answer choice B is the correct answer, as it strengthens the argument by establishing a similarity between the conditions in Ireland and this country, making it more likely that the same result (no water contamination) would occur if peat harvesting were to proceed in this country.