LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, most strengthens the argument? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Strengthen question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The passage discusses the behavior of dolphins when they receive a hand signal from their trainer to "Do something creative together." It mentions that the dolphins sometimes perform synchronized leaps or backward swims, and other times they wave their tails. The conclusion of the argument is that these behaviors are not simply learned responses to a given stimulus, but rather, dolphins are capable of higher cognitive functions that may include the use of language and forethought. The premise supporting this conclusion is the observation of the dolphins' varied responses to the same hand signal.

To better understand this, let's use a simple example. Imagine you have a dog, and every time you give it a specific hand signal, it either sits or lies down. This would suggest that the dog is not merely responding to the hand signal with a single learned behavior but might be capable of understanding the signal and choosing its response.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be: "Are the dolphins' varied responses to the hand signal truly indicative of higher cognitive functions, or could they be random or instinctual behaviors?"

Now, let's discuss the question type and the answer choices. The question is a Strengthen question, asking us to identify which answer choice, if true, most strengthens the argument.

a) Mammals have some resemblance to one another with respect to bodily function and brain structure.

- This choice does not directly address the dolphins' responses to the hand signal or their cognitive abilities, so it does not strengthen the argument.

b) The dolphins often exhibit complex new responses to the hand signal. (Correct Answer)

- This choice strengthens the argument because it indicates that the dolphins are not limited to a set of learned responses but can create new, complex behaviors in response to the hand signal. This supports the conclusion that dolphins have higher cognitive functions.

c) The dolphins are given food incentives as part of their training.

- This choice does not strengthen the argument, as it merely provides information about the training process and does not address the dolphins' cognitive abilities or their responses to the hand signal.

d) Dolphins do not interact with humans the way they interact with one another.

- This choice does not strengthen the argument because it does not provide any information about the dolphins' responses to the hand signal or their cognitive abilities.

e) Some of the behaviors mentioned are exhibited by dolphins in their natural habitat.

- This choice does not necessarily strengthen the argument because it does not address whether the behaviors are a result of higher cognitive functions or simply instinctual behaviors that dolphins exhibit in their natural environment.

In conclusion, the correct answer is B, as it provides evidence that the dolphins' responses to the hand signal are not merely learned behaviors but instead indicate higher cognitive functions.