LSAT Explanation PT 22, S4, Q3: Muriel: I admire Favilla's novels, but

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following is a point at issue between Muriel and John? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Disagree question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

The question type for this problem is a Point at Issue, which means we need to identify the point on which Muriel and John disagree.

First, let's summarize and analyze the argument:

Muriel's argument:

Premise: Favilla's subject matter is not varied enough.

Conclusion: Favilla does not deserve to be considered a great writer.

John's argument:

Premise: A great writer does not need diversity in subject matter but needs the ability to explore a particular theme deeply.

Conclusion: Muriel's criterion for a great writer is wrong.

Now, let's discuss each answer choice in detail:

a) whether Favilla has treated a wide variety of subjects in her novels

Muriel would say no to this, but John's position is unknown. Although he disagrees with Muriel's criterion, he doesn't explicitly state his opinion on the variety of subjects in Favilla's novels. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect.

b) whether Favilla should be considered a great writer because her style is distinctive

Muriel would disagree with this, but John's position is unknown. He focuses on the exploration of a theme rather than the distinctiveness of style. Thus, this answer choice is also incorrect.

c) whether treating a variety of subjects should be a prerequisite for someone to be considered a great writer

This is the correct answer choice. Muriel agrees with this statement, as her argument is based on the lack of variety in Favilla's subject matter. John disagrees, as he believes that a great writer does not need diversity in subject matter but should explore a particular theme deeply.

d) whether the number of novels that a novelist has written should be a factor in judging whether that novelist is great

Neither Muriel nor John mention the number of novels as a factor in their arguments. Thus, this answer choice is incorrect.

e) whether there are many novelists who are considered to be great but do not deserve to be so considered

Again, neither Muriel nor John discuss this point in their arguments. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect.

In conclusion, the point at issue between Muriel and John is whether treating a variety of subjects should be a prerequisite for someone to be considered a great writer (answer choice c).