LSAT Explanation PT 41, S3, Q9: Phoebe: There have been many reported

LSAT Question Stem

In responding to Phoebe, Quincy 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. Phoebe presents a premise that many reported sightings of strange glowing lights have a natural explanation, as they occurred around the epicenters of three earthquakes. She concludes that these lights were almost certainly earthquake lights, a form of ball lightning caused by ground stresses. Quincy, on the other hand, expresses skepticism about the association between the lights and the earthquakes being anything more than a coincidence. Quincy's main point is that the theory that ground stresses related to earthquakes can cause any kind of lightning is extremely speculative.

Now, let's identify the question type and what it's asking us to do. This is a Method of Reasoning (MOR) question, which asks us to identify how Quincy is responding to Phoebe.

Let's consider each answer choice:

a) takes a correlation to be a causal relation

This answer choice is incorrect because it describes Phoebe's argument, not Quincy's response. Phoebe is the one who takes a correlation (lights and earthquakes) to be a causal relation (earthquakes causing the lights). Quincy actually doubts this causal relation, arguing that it's speculative.

b) challenges the accuracy of the data about sightings that Phoebe takes for granted

This answer choice is also incorrect. Quincy does not challenge the accuracy of the data about the sightings. Instead, she challenges the causal relationship between the earthquakes and the lights that Phoebe proposes.

c) criticizes Phoebe's explanation as unsubstantiated

Correct! Quincy's response is to criticize Phoebe's explanation as being speculative, meaning it lacks sufficient evidence or substantiation. Quincy does not believe that the association between the lights and earthquakes is anything more than a coincidence.

d) offers an explanation of the glowing lights different from Phoebe's

This answer choice is incorrect because Quincy does not provide an alternative explanation for the glowing lights. She merely expresses skepticism about Phoebe's explanation and suggests that the association might be a coincidence.

e) accuses Phoebe of introducing irrelevant information

This answer choice is also incorrect. Quincy does not accuse Phoebe of introducing irrelevant information. Instead, she criticizes Phoebe's explanation as being speculative and lacking sufficient evidence.

In summary, the correct answer is C, as Quincy criticizes Phoebe's explanation as unsubstantiated. Quincy does not challenge the data, provide an alternative explanation, or accuse Phoebe of introducing irrelevant information.