LSAT Explanation PT 39, S2, Q23: Councilperson X: We have an obligation

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following is an issue about which the two councilpersons disagree? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Disagree question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is D. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Before diving into the answer choices, let's first summarize and analyze the passage. Councilperson X argues that the council has an obligation to ensure the lowest possible electricity rates and thus should endorse the proposed design if they approve the construction of a new plant (conclusion). Councilperson Y, on the other hand, contends that the council's responsibility is not only to ensure low electricity rates but also to maintain the community's quality of life. They believe that the proposed design would damage air quality to such an extent that it would outweigh the benefit of lower rates (implicit conclusion: the proposed plant design should not be used).

Now, let's discuss the question type and what it's asking us to do. This is a Point At Issue question, which asks us to identify the issue about which the two councilpersons disagree.

Answer Choices:

a) The council should recommend the building of a new generating station.

Councilperson X's position on this is uncertain, as they mention endorsing the design only if they have no choice but to approve the construction of a new plant. Councilperson Y's position on this is also not clear. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect as there is no clear disagreement.

b) It is the council's responsibility to improve the community's quality of life.

Councilperson Y likely agrees with this statement, but Councilperson X's position is uncertain as they don't mention the quality of life. Thus, this answer choice is incorrect as there is no clear disagreement.

c) A plant of the type specified by the design in question would damage the air quality of the community.

Councilperson Y agrees with this statement, but Councilperson X's position is uncertain as they don't mention air quality. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect as there is no clear disagreement.

d) If a new generating station is to be built, the council should endorse a plant of the type specified by the design in question.

This is the correct answer choice. Councilperson X agrees with this statement, as it aligns with their conclusion. Councilperson Y disagrees with this statement, as their implicit conclusion is that the proposed plant design should not be used due to its negative impact on air quality.

e) A plant of the type specified by the design in question would allow for the lowest electricity rates.

Councilperson X agrees with this statement. Councilperson Y's position is less certain, but there is no clear disagreement present, making this answer choice incorrect.