LSAT Explanation PT 32, S4, Q8: Figorian Wildlife Commission: The development of
LSAT Question Stem
Which one of the following principles, if accepted, would most strongly support the Figorian Development Commission's position against the Figorian Wildlife Commission's position?
Logical Reasoning Question Type
This is a Principle question.
Correct Answer
The correct answer to this question is C.
LSAT Question Complete Explanation
First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The Figorian Wildlife Commission (FWC) argues that wetland development in industrialized nations has endangered many species, and to protect wildlife, Figoria must regulate future development by constructing replacement wetland habitats. This would result in no net reduction of wetlands and no threat to the species inhabiting them. The Figorian Development Commission (FDC) counters that since wetland development in Figoria might not affect wildlife and is necessary for growth, it should be allowed. They argue that Figoria has the same right to govern its resources as countries that have already used their natural resources for commercial purposes.
The FWC's argument structure is as follows:
Premise: Wetland development in industrialized nations has endangered many species.
Conclusion: To protect wildlife, Figoria must regulate future development by constructing replacement wetland habitats.
The FDC's argument structure is as follows:
Premise 1: Other nations have developed wetlands at the expense of wildlife.
Premise 2: Figoria has conserved its resources.
Premise 3: Wetland development might not affect wildlife and is necessary for growth.
Conclusion: Figoria should be allowed to develop its wetlands.
An "Evaluate" question for the FDC's argument could be: "Has Figorian wetland development been proven to have no impact on endangered species?"
The question type of this problem is Principle, and it asks us to identify the principle that would most strongly support the FDC's position against the FWC's position.
Answer choice A is incorrect because it introduces the idea of international agreement, which is not discussed in the passage.
Answer choice B is incorrect because it focuses on future generations and argues that wildlife preservation is more important than economic needs, which goes against the FDC's position.
Answer choice C is the correct answer. It supports the FDC's position by stating that regulation should be implemented only when a reduction of endangered species populations by commercial development has been found. This aligns with the FDC's premise that wetland development might not affect wildlife.
Answer choice D is incorrect because it contradicts the FDC's position. It suggests that environmental regulation must prevent any further environmental damage, while the FDC argues for allowing development despite potential harm to the environment.
Answer choice E is incorrect because it argues against further depletion of natural resources, which goes against the FDC's position of allowing wetland development for growth.
In conclusion, answer choice C is the correct answer because it supports the FDC's position by stating that regulation should only be implemented when there is evidence of harm to endangered species populations due to commercial development.