LSAT Explanation PT 36, S3, Q15: Environmentalists who seek stricter governmental regulations
LSAT Question Stem
Which one of the following best illustrates the principle illustrated by the argument above?
Logical Reasoning Question Type
This is a Parallel question.
Correct Answer
The correct answer to this question is A.
LSAT Question Complete Explanation
This is a Parallel Reasoning question, which asks us to identify the answer choice that best illustrates the principle in the argument provided. The argument states that environmentalists should have their facts straight when seeking stricter regulations for water pollution, or else the public will not listen to them when dire threats exist. In other words, if the environmentalists don't present strong evidence initially, they risk losing credibility even if their case becomes stronger later on.
Let's analyze each answer choice:
Answer choice (A): This answer choice closely parallels the argument's logic. Just like environmentalists, middle-level managers should have strong evidence when asking their companies to hire additional employees. If not, higher-level managers will refuse their suggestions even when doing so would benefit the company. This is the correct answer choice.
Answer choice (B): Although the language is similar to the argument, the logic is different. The focus here is not on having solid facts to support a position, but on using dispassionate rhetoric. Additionally, the risk is not of losing credibility, but of causing a backlash that results in negative reactions. This choice is incorrect.
Answer choice (C): The logic here is also different from the argument. The issue is not having solid facts, but using emotionally compelling evidence. The risk is not losing credibility, but simply not being persuasive enough. This choice is incorrect.
Answer choice (D): This choice focuses on convincing legislators that their political careers are at stake, which is not the same as having strong evidence to support a proposal. The danger of losing credibility is not addressed here. This choice is incorrect.
Answer choice (E): The central issue here is not the strength of the evidence used to support a proposal, but the manner in which the proposal is made. The danger is not losing credibility, but of achieving an outcome that is the opposite of the one sought. This choice is incorrect.
In conclusion, answer choice (A) best illustrates the principle in the argument and is the correct answer.