LSAT Explanation PT 32, S1, Q5: In some countries, there is a

LSAT Question Stem

The conclusion follows logically if which one of the following is assumed? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Sufficient Assumption question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The passage states that in some countries, there is a free flow of information about infrastructure, agriculture, and industry, while in other countries, this information is controlled by a small elite. In the latter countries, the vast majority of the population is denied vital information about factors that determine their welfare. The passage concludes that these countries are likely to experience more frequent economic crises than other countries do. The structure of the argument is as follows:

Premise: In some countries, information is controlled by a small elite, and the vast majority of the population is denied vital information about factors that determine their welfare.

Conclusion: These countries are likely to experience more frequent economic crises than other countries do.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be: "Does the amount of information available to the population about factors determining its welfare affect the frequency of economic crises?"

Now, let's discuss the question type and the answer choices. This is a Sufficient Assumption question, which asks us to identify an assumption that, if true, would make the conclusion follow logically.

a) This answer choice talks about who will suffer from economic crises but does not address the frequency of crises in comparison to other countries. It doesn't help us establish the link between the denial of vital information and the frequency of economic crises.

b) This is the correct answer. It establishes a direct link between the amount of information available to the population and the frequency of economic crises. If economic crises become more frequent as the amount of information decreases, then it is logical to conclude that countries where the vast majority of the population is denied vital information will experience more frequent economic crises than other countries.

c) Although this answer choice mentions economic crises being common in nations where the government controls access to information, it does not compare the frequency of these crises to other countries. Moreover, it refers to "government" instead of "small elite," which is not the same as the passage's premise.

d) This answer choice talks about the quality of economic decisions, but it does not address the frequency of economic crises in comparison to other countries. Good decisions do not necessarily equate to fewer crises.

e) This answer choice discusses the manipulation of information by a small elite but does not mention the frequency or likelihood of economic crises, which is the focus of the conclusion.

In summary, the correct answer is B, as it establishes a direct link between the amount of information available to the population and the frequency of economic crises, making the conclusion follow logically.