LSAT Explanation PT 35, S1, Q2: Lecturer: Given our current state of
LSAT Question Stem
Which one of the following principles, if valid, most justifies the lecturer's classification of the generalization described above?
Logical Reasoning Question Type
This is a Principle question.
Correct Answer
The correct answer to this question is D.
LSAT Question Complete Explanation
Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The lecturer presents a generalization related to the entropy of closed systems, stating that it has not been falsified by any tests conducted so far. The lecturer admits that the generalization has not been conclusively verified in every corner of the universe or under every feasible condition. However, the lecturer concludes that the generalization is correctly regarded as a scientific law, specifically the Second Law of Thermodynamics. The conclusion of the argument is that the generalization is correctly regarded as a scientific law.
To simplify this complex topic, let's use an example. Imagine we have a generalization that all apples are red. We have tested this generalization in various places and conditions, and so far, we have found no evidence of non-red apples. However, we haven't tested this generalization in every possible location or condition. Despite this, we still consider the generalization to be a scientific law.
An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be, "Have the tests conducted so far covered a diverse and representative enough range of conditions to justify considering the generalization a scientific law?"
The question type of this problem is Principle, and it asks us to identify the principle that most justifies the lecturer's classification of the generalization.
Answer choice A is incorrect because it only states that scientific laws have not been falsified. It does not address the issue of whether a generalization that has not been conclusively verified can be considered a scientific law.
Answer choice B is also incorrect, as it weakens the argument by suggesting that a generalization confirmed only under a few circumstances should not be considered a scientific law.
Answer choice C is incorrect because it does not directly address the issue of whether a generalization that has not been conclusively verified can be considered a scientific law.
Answer choice D is the correct answer. It states that if a generalization is confirmed to the extent current science allows, then it is considered a scientific law. This principle aligns with the lecturer's argument and justifies the classification of the generalization as a scientific law, despite not being conclusively verified.
Answer choice E is incorrect because it focuses on the eventual conclusive verification of scientific laws, which is not relevant to the argument.
In conclusion, answer choice D best justifies the lecturer's classification of the generalization as a scientific law because it addresses the issue of whether a generalization that has not been conclusively verified can still be considered a scientific law based on the extent of confirmation provided by current science.