LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following most accurately describes the technique used in the passage to weaken the argument for the claim that aggressiveness is innate to human beings? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Weaken question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The researcher claims that "human beings are innately aggressive" and provides evidence in the form of historical warfare prevalence. The passage then argues that if some peoples are peaceable now, aggression cannot be coded in our genes, only the potential for it. This means that the term "innate" loses its meaning. The structure of the argument can be broken down as follows:

Premise: The researcher cites the prevalence of warfare in history as evidence for innate aggression.

Conclusion: If "innate" only means possible or likely in certain environments, then everything we do is innate, and the word has no meaning.

Our task is to identify the technique used in the passage to weaken the argument for the claim that aggressiveness is innate to human beings.

Now, let's evaluate each answer choice:

a) The accuracy of the historical data cited in the argument for innate aggressiveness is called into question.

- This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not question the accuracy of the historical data. Instead, it focuses on the definition and implications of "innate."

b) The force of the concept of innateness used in the argument for innate aggressiveness is called into question.

- This is the correct answer. The passage weakens the argument by questioning the meaning and implications of "innate." If "innate" only means possible or likely in certain environments, then the term loses its meaning, and the argument for innate aggressiveness is undermined.

c) An attempt is made to undermine the argument for innate aggressiveness by arguing that there are no genetically based traits.

- This answer choice is incorrect because it is too strongly worded. The passage does not argue that there are no genetically based traits; instead, it argues that aggression cannot be coded in our genes, only the potential for it.

d) An attempt is made to undermine the argument for innate aggressiveness by suggesting that it appeals to emotional considerations rather than to reason.

- This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not focus on emotional considerations. The passage weakens the argument by questioning the definition and implications of "innate."

e) An attempt is made to undermine the argument for innate aggressiveness by arguing that all peoples are peaceable.

- This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not argue that all peoples are peaceable. It only states that some peoples are peaceable now, which leads to questioning the concept of "innate."

In conclusion, the correct answer is B, as the passage weakens the argument for innate aggressiveness by calling into question the force of the concept of innateness used in the argument.