LSAT Explanation PT 39, S2, Q8: The kind of thoughts that keep

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following most closely parallels the reasoning in the argument above? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Parallel question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

This is a Parallel Reasoning question, which requires us to find the answer choice that most closely mirrors the reasoning used in the given argument.

The argument in the passage states that insomnia can be caused by thoughts arising in either half of the brain. The proposed solution, counting sheep, occupies both halves of the brain, thereby eliminating both potential causes of insomnia.

Now, let's analyze the answer choices:

a) This answer choice suggests using either brick or wood instead of stucco to build a house in a cold climate. It does not present a single solution that addresses two distinct problems, like the passage does. Therefore, this choice does not parallel the reasoning in the argument.

b) This answer choice parallels the passage's reasoning. Just as insomnia can be caused by thoughts arising in either half of the brain, furniture damage can result from either a cat's claws or teeth. In both cases, the proposed solution (counting sheep or providing toy mice) eliminates both potential causes of the problem. This is the correct answer choice.

c) This answer choice suggests that there are two equal ways to reach Centreville, but it does not present a single solution that addresses two distinct problems like the passage does. Therefore, this choice does not parallel the reasoning in the argument.

d) Storing both chemicals separately eliminates only one potential cause of an undesirable effect (the risk of explosion), not two distinct causes like the passage's argument. Thus, this choice does not parallel the reasoning in the argument.

e) Similar to answer choice (A), this answer choice suggests adopting one strategy over another (using a different harbor), but it does not present a single solution that addresses two distinct problems like the passage does. Therefore, this choice does not parallel the reasoning in the argument.

In conclusion, answer choice (B) most closely parallels the reasoning in the argument, as it presents a single solution that addresses two distinct problems, just like the passage does.