LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following most accurately describes Rossi's argument? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is A. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

In this LSAT problem, we have a passage containing a dialogue between Rossi and Smith. Our task is to focus on Rossi's argument and determine which answer choice most accurately describes it. The question type is Method of Reasoning (MOR).

Let's first analyze Rossi's argument. Rossi starts with a general principle (premise): "It is undemocratic for people to live under a government in which their interests are not represented." Rossi then applies this principle to a specific group, children, and concludes that "children should have the right to vote, since sometimes the interests of children are different from those of their parents." The structure of Rossi's argument is one premise leading to a conclusion.

Now, let's examine each answer choice:

a) It makes an appeal to a general principle.

This answer choice is correct because Rossi's argument begins with a general principle about democratic representation and applies it to the case of children. The first sentence of Rossi's argument serves as the general principle.

b) It denies the good faith of an opponent.

This answer choice is incorrect because Rossi does not address any opponent or question their good faith.

c) It relies on evaluating the predictable consequences of a proposal.

This answer choice is incorrect because Rossi's argument does not discuss or evaluate the consequences of allowing children to vote. Instead, it focuses on the principle of democratic representation.

d) It substitutes description for giving a rationale for a policy.

This answer choice is incorrect because Rossi does provide a rationale for the policy of allowing children to vote: the principle of democratic representation. Rossi does not merely describe the policy without offering a reason for it.

e) It employs a term on two different occasions in different senses.

This answer choice is incorrect because Rossi uses the term "interests" twice, but both times in the same sense. There is no term used in two different senses in Rossi's argument.

In conclusion, the correct answer is A, as Rossi's argument makes an appeal to a general principle about democratic representation and applies it to the case of children having the right to vote.