preptest 73, logical reasoning 1, question 9
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preptest 141 (preptest 73), lr1
summary
the essence of the content revolves around understanding how to undermine or weaken an argument by identifying and attacking its assumptions, specifically within the context of lsat exam preparation.
- undermining an argument involves attacking the assumptions that are not directly stated but are necessary for the argument's evidence to support its conclusion.
- the example provided illustrates a causal argument regarding the impact of tobacco advertising on the tendency to smoke, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between first-time smokers and those who continue to smoke.
- identifying the assumptions involves ensuring the causal connection is not coincidental, there's no third factor causing the observed effect, and the relationship is not reversed.
- the correct answer choice (c) weakens the argument by suggesting that restrictions on tobacco advertising are imposed only after a negative attitude toward tobacco use is already widespread, indicating a reversed causality.
- other answer choices are dismissed as irrelevant or not directly addressing the assumptions underlying the argument's conclusion.
chapters
00:00
understanding argument assumptions
00:20
analyzing the argument's structure
01:24
identifying and attacking assumptions
02:08
evaluating answer choices