LSAT Explanation PT 37, S4, Q14: The fact that politicians in a
LSAT Question Stem
Which one of the following arguments is most similar in its reasoning to the argument above?
Logical Reasoning Question Type
This is a Parallel question.
Correct Answer
The correct answer to this question is E.
LSAT Question Complete Explanation
This is a Parallel Reasoning question, which asks us to identify the answer choice that has reasoning most similar to the argument in the passage. The passage argues that the politicians' decision to eliminate government-supported scholarship programs is not fully explained by their goal of reducing government spending because there's a more effective way to achieve that goal (cutting back on military spending).
To find the correct answer, we need to look for an argument that follows a similar pattern: actions are not completely explained by the stated goal because there's a more effective way to achieve that goal.
Answer choice (E) is the correct answer. It argues that Thelma's decision to take up theatrical acting is not fully explained by her goal of becoming famous because there are more effective ways to achieve that goal (writing or directing plays). This answer choice closely parallels the reasoning in the passage.
Answer choice (A) has a similar conclusion but a different supporting premise. It argues that Phyllis's refusal to buy expensive clothing is not fully explained by her current financial situation since her actions were consistent even when she had a different financial situation.
Answer choice (B) also has a similar conclusion but fails the premise test. It argues that Brooks's poor academic performance is not fully explained by his part-time job situation, as others in similar situations perform differently.
Answer choice (C) shares the same conclusion as the other choices but presents a different argument. It claims that the reason Sallie and Jim can't work together is not fully explained by their different work styles because, given a different approach, they could have achieved better results.
Answer choice (D) has the right conclusion and deals with goals, but the argument fails to parallel the passage. It argues that Roger's cat adoptions are not fully explained by his goal of more companionship because he would have adopted fewer cats if there had been other options for them.
In summary, answer choice (E) is the correct answer because it presents an argument with reasoning most similar to the passage: actions are not completely explained by the stated goal because there's a more effective way to achieve that goal.