LSAT Explanation PT 27, S1, Q8: The gray squirrel, introduced into local

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, most calls into question the officials' argument? 

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 argument structure is as follows:

Premise 1: Gray squirrels strip tree bark, destroying trees in which endangered owls nest.

Premise 2: Local officials propose poisoning gray squirrels, using containers accessible only to squirrels and other rodents.

Conclusion: The poisoning plan poses no threat to the owl population.

Now, let's create an "Evaluate" question for this argument: "Do the owls rely on rodents for their survival or as a primary food source?"

The question type for this problem is "Weaken." Our task is to find the answer choice that most calls into question the officials' argument.

a) This answer choice tells us that red squirrels, which owls do not prey on, might also be killed by the poison. However, this does not affect the argument as it doesn't show a direct threat to the owl population. So, this choice is incorrect.

b) This answer choice states that the owls primarily feed on rodents. If the poisoning plan eliminates rodents, it could indirectly harm the owl population by reducing their primary food source. This weakens the officials' argument, making this the correct answer.

c) This answer choice talks about other bird species not being threatened by gray squirrels. However, it doesn't provide any information about the effect of the poisoning plan on the owl population. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

d) This answer choice provides information about the location of owl nests and where squirrels strip bark but doesn't address the potential harm of the poisoning plan on the owls. Thus, this choice is incorrect.

e) This answer choice gives more information about the plan, but it doesn't provide any information about the effects of the plan on the owl population. We want to know if the plan will hurt the owls in any way. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer is B, as it weakens the officials' argument by showing that the owl population could be indirectly harmed by the poisoning plan if it eliminates their primary food source, rodents.