LSAT Explanation PT 33, S1, Q18: The use of space-based satellites to

LSAT Question Stem

The reasoning above most closely conforms to which one of the following principles? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Principle question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is A. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The passage discusses the use of space-based satellites for studying environmental conditions on Earth and highlights their importance in the conservation movement. The argument states that environmental problems can be observed earlier, allowing for intervention before reaching crisis level. However, it also points out that environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer caused by spacecraft and that this damage could be serious enough to warrant discontinuing spaceflight.

The structure of the argument can be broken down as follows:

1. Premise: Space-based satellites help in early detection of environmental problems.

2. Premise: Environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer caused by spacecraft.

3. Conclusion: It is no wonder that environmentalists fail to consider the potential damage to the ozone layer and the possibility of discontinuing spaceflight.

Now, let's create an "Evaluate" question for this argument: "Do environmentalists have enough evidence to support their belief in the benefits of space-based satellites, despite the potential damage to the ozone layer?"

The question type for this LSAT problem is Principle, and it asks us to identify the principle that most closely conforms to the reasoning in the passage. The correct answer is A.

Let's go through each answer choice:

a) People tend to ignore possible objectionable consequences of actions that support their activities.

This answer choice aligns with the argument, as it suggests that people (in this case, environmentalists) may overlook the negative consequences of their actions if those actions support their goals. This matches the idea that environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer caused by spacecraft. Thus, this is the correct answer.

b) A negative consequence of an activity may be outweighed by its great positive consequences.

This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not discuss whether the positive consequences of using space-based satellites outweigh the potential negative consequences. Instead, it focuses on the fact that environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer.

c) Technology usually has at least some negative impact on the environment, even if it is largely beneficial.

This answer choice is too general and does not specifically address the reasoning in the passage. The passage is about environmentalists not considering the potential damage to the ozone layer caused by spacecraft, not about technology's overall impact on the environment.

d) Even well-intentioned attempts to solve problems sometimes make them worse.

This answer choice is incorrect because it does not focus on the reason why environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer. Instead, it discusses the idea that attempts to solve problems can sometimes make them worse, which is not the main focus of the passage.

e) Attempts to employ technology often have unforeseen consequences that may be negative.

This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not discuss unforeseen consequences of using technology. Instead, it focuses on the fact that environmentalists may not consider the potential damage to the ozone layer caused by spacecraft.

In summary, the correct answer is A because it best aligns with the reasoning in the passage, suggesting that people (environmentalists) may ignore the negative consequences of their actions if those actions support their goals.