LSAT Question Stem

The veterinarian's argument employs which one of the following techniques? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is E. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The veterinarian is responding to some horse breeders' conclusion that horses with a specific genetic defect should not be bred due to the severe consequences of the disease it causes. The argument can be broken down into the following structure:

Premise 1: The genetic defect causes a disease that can have serious consequences (prevents racing, paralysis, death).

Premise 2: In most cases, the severity of the disease can be controlled by diet and medication.

Premise 3: The defect also produces horses of extreme beauty that are in great demand in the horse show industry.

Conclusion: The horse breeders are wrong to conclude that horses with this defect should not be bred.

To make this more relatable, let's imagine a hypothetical situation: A certain type of plant has a genetic mutation that causes it to be more susceptible to a disease. Some gardeners argue that this plant should not be grown because the disease can kill the plant. However, the disease can be managed with proper care, and the mutation also makes the plant extremely beautiful and sought after in the gardening community.

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 the technique employed by the veterinarian's argument. We need to find the answer choice that best describes the technique used in the argument.

a) calling into question the motives of the horse breeders cited

The veterinarian's argument does not focus on questioning the motives of the horse breeders. Instead, it presents evidence and considerations to counter their conclusion. This answer choice is incorrect.

b) demonstrating that the horse breeders' conclusion is inconsistent with evidence advanced to support it

The veterinarian does not show that the breeders' conclusion is inconsistent with their own evidence. Instead, the veterinarian introduces new evidence and considerations. This answer choice is incorrect.

c) providing evidence that contradicts the horse breeders' evidence

While the veterinarian provides evidence, it does not directly contradict the breeders' evidence about the severity of the disease. The veterinarian acknowledges the severity but introduces new considerations about managing the disease and the demand for beautiful horses. This answer choice is incorrect.

d) disputing the accuracy of evidence on which the horse breeders' argument depends

The veterinarian does not dispute the accuracy of the breeders' evidence about the disease's severe consequences. Instead, they present additional evidence and considerations to counter the breeders' conclusion. This answer choice is incorrect.

e) introducing considerations that lead to a conclusion different from that of the horse breeders' argument

This answer choice accurately describes the veterinarian's technique. They introduce new considerations (disease management and demand for beautiful horses) to reach a different conclusion than the horse breeders. This answer choice is correct.

So, the correct answer to this MOR question is E, as the veterinarian's argument employs the technique of introducing considerations that lead to a conclusion different from that of the horse breeders' argument.